Today our journey started and ended with peaceful riverside walks. On leaving Zubiri this morning, we followed the river Arga for 7+ miles. A short way out of town we stopped at The Abbey of Eskirotz & Ilarrotz and met the Camino pilgrim who bought the abbey and is now renovating it. After showing us the 13th century altarpiece and discussing the renovation work he is doing, he recommended we visit the Barrio San Esteban in Zabaldika, a .6 mile detour off the Camino.
We took his advice and, besides getting to see the beautiful 13th century altarpiece there, Becky and I climbed the belfry and were able to ring one of the bells. Had lunch on the grounds of the Barrio and then continued our journey to Pamplona. When we entered the town of Arre, on the outskirts of Pamplona, we decided to take the optional riverside walk into the city. By this time, Becky and Jerry were quite a ways ahead of us. Rich's feet were starting to bother him, so we took it VERY slowly. It was a beautiful, peaceful walk along the rivers Ultzama and Arga, but a very painful walk for Rich. He was truly hobbling by the time we reached our hotel! Once we got to our room and he removed his shoes and socks, we discovered HUGE blisters on the heels of both feet. Will wait until the morning to do first aid surgery. In the meantime, he's in flip flops tonight to give his feet and blisters some fresh air.
Today's official route took us 13.7 miles closer to Santiago but, with the optional routes we took along the way, we logged closer to 15.5 miles today. Only 31 more stages, 33 more days and 446 miles to Santiago.
Buen Camino!
The River Arga
Two friends out for a morning stroll
Along the riverside path to Pamplona
Another view of the river Arga (or is it the river Ultzama?)
The Portal de Francia in Pamplona
Hope Dad's feet start to feel better soon!!! Loving all the updates!
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