The steepest ascent on the Camino Francés in Spain is getting closer, but we will not be tackling that until tomorrow. For this day, we settle for the walk leading up to it, through the Valcarce valley.
Walking through the streets of Villafranca del Bierzo early in the morning.
However, we would not be without a climb today. Torsten had reported that the official route going down in the valley was not the most interesting in the beginning, mostly going next to the road. I managed to convince Jan that we should walk the alternative route passing by Pradela instead, but that meant going up into the mountains instead of following the valley floor.
View from the Camino de la Montaña, Villafranca del Bierzo below.
The Camino de la Montaña leaves the original route just after crossing over the Puente Medieval de Vilafranca bridge, it goes up on a street to the right that soon becomes a gravel track leading up into the hills and mountains.
Camino de la Montaña.
We climb upwards as the light climbs upwards on the sky. A viewpoint reveals that this was the right choice, we can see Ponferrada below, as well as the road where the official route is going.
On the way towards Pradela.
Moreover, the route forward is also a treat, with the gravel track slowly winding upwards alongside the contours of the mountains. It is very pleasant walking.
Ambasmestas.
To reach the hamlet of Pradela, one has to leave the route, but it is worth it. Its cluster of old houses can be seen nestled underneath the gentle rolling mountains.
At Trabadelo, after a relatively steep descent, we are back at the original route nearby a building with a lot of paraphernalia outside.
A little hamlet nestled underneath the tall viaducts in the Valcarce valley.
The walk is now following the valley floor, but it is also a change of scenery for us. We walk close by a road, but it is not heavily trafficked. That is reserved for the highway, which thankfully goes higher up. I find the huge and tall modern viaducts that is towering over old villages a fascinating sight.
Albergue life in Vega de Valcarce.
The albergue in Vega de Valcarce is basic, but we like the common kitchen space between the two buildings, it has a roof but is otherwise outside with a nice view.
Castillo de Sarracín.
Quite visible from the village is Castillo de Sarracín, situated at the top of a hill. Having time left of the day, I decide to climb up to it. My father feels satisfied with the day, so he is staying behind at the albergue, having company with two Danish pilgrims.
View of Vega de Valcarce from the castle.
I am a little bit unsure at the start in terms of finding the way up, but I find my way up through a forest with ancient chestnut trees. The view from the castle, or rather the ruins of it, is great. I can see far off in the distance, and below the huge viaducts crisscrossing the valley. Not to forget that the castle itself is worth taking a look at.
Remains of the Castillo de Sarracín.
A different kind of day on the Camino, although it serves as a prelude to the climb tomorrow. The alternative Camino de la Montaña is recommended. If time and strength left visit the castle of the Saracens.
<- Villafranca del BierzoO Cebreiro ->
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