487 km to Santiago
We slept like babies – exhausted but peaceful. Wake-up call at 6 AM. We got ready and clattered down the stairs to the dining room for breakfast: orange juice, coffee, and a toasted baguette with butter and jam.
Then out into the brisk morning air – minus 2°C with wind. Yikes. At least it wasn’t raining. We headed toward Burgos. In Orbaneja Riopico, locals were scraping ice from their windshields as they left for work. We felt even colder. Thankfully, we had our thermal layers on.
Twelve long kilometers of asphalt led us into Burgos – past the airport, through industrial areas. It dragged on. Once in the city, we were a bit disappointed with the signage for the Camino. We followed other pilgrims and hoped they knew where they were going.
Eventually, we reached the magnificent Cathedral of Santa María. Construction began in the 13th century and ended in the 16th – a stunning example of Gothic architecture. A tree-lined avenue leads to its beautifully decorated entrance. We took photos of the cathedral and everything that caught our eye.
Then began the search for Camino signs again – and a market. After asking around, we found a small store and restocked. Then we finally spotted the route out of town. Burgos is known for its cold weather (continental climate), and true to its reputation, it was chilly.
We hurried out of the city and took our first break – airing out our feet, having a snack. I even stowed my walking poles so I could keep my hands in my pockets. Then it started to rain.
We couldn’t wait to reach a village with an albergue. After 27 km, we finally arrived in Tardajos. No store (or closed due to upcoming holidays), the bakery won’t reopen until April 20. The hostel has no kitchen – just a restaurant. 4. Still, it’s fine. We settled in, took showers, and went for a beer. First rest is behind us – now time to eat and get to bed.
Tomorrow will either be very short or very long – we’ll decide on the go.
Good night!
M & I
