Ceri: We were sad to leave Leon. There was a calmness about the city, probably because the whole of the centre is pedestrianised – although the bars at night aren’t peaceful! The Spanish have such a vibrancy about them with Camino travelers wandering through. We cycled out past the museum and the adjoining Parador which are beautiful buildings. It’s 13degC and raining as we set out for Astorga but clears. 

As the day progressed, I felt more and more unwell and I was so grateful to check into a welcoming hostel in Astorga. I went straight to bed and stayed there until morning. The hostel provided the most delicious evening meal with Camino walkers sitting around a big table exchanging tales. I’m told Neil kept many entertained with his extraordinary stories while I was either on the loo or in bed upstairs. I missed the food and the fun, but met them all at breakfast. What an interesting group of people. 

Unfortunately next morning I was too weak to cycle, so we booked tickets for the train. Every cloud has a silver lining as we missed hours of torrential rain early morning and used the following sunshine to visit the stunning Bishops Palace in Astorga, designed by Gaudi. I’m in such awe of his creativity. We both are. 

It’s been a beautiful train journey. The landscape has  become much richer and more interesting. The train wound its way through numerous tunnels in and out of the mountains we would have been cycling over. It’s been such a contrast to the plains we’ve cycled across. 

We’re settled in our apartment. I’m resting watching TV/ sleeping and Neil’s been out chemist and grocery shopping. We’ll have a QNI (quiet night in) with me under the care of a wonderful doctor, and hopefully we’ll both be back on our bikes tomorrow.