It was a pretty walk once we found our way out of town! After the obligatory pig farm that had us gagging we passed into beautiful rolling fields of wheat and barley then olive trees and vineyards. The vines are not trained on wires like home but are cut to stumps and then left to shoot new growth. Many stumps look quit old as in thick stumps. It was a beautiful day and the fields were full of small birds singing and tweeting. A bit of excitement occurred when we had to cross two creeks with just stepping stones. We didn't fall in thanks to my trusty sticks but the stones were very wobbly. After three hours walking I decided to stop for chocolate and a feet up as we had 26kms to accomplish today. We were just about halfway. Peter and I threw ourselves on the grass for a kip. The grass smelt so fresh and sweet. After what I thought was fifteen minutes but was closer to half an hour we hauled ourselves up and pressed on.
We started to flag at 20 Km's as we reached the village Pueblo de Sencho Perez. I was feeling every stone underfoot and my toes were hurting. As we rounded the corner Karen and Andy were sitting having ice creams. I dropped my pack and fell into a chair. We had ice creams and a good rest. I hobbled into the bars toilet and an old guy looked on with pity making some comment beyond my comprehension. Probably something like: you must be crazy perhaps? Then off we went to Zafra. Katrina was staying so we bid her farewell and expect to meet her around Merida. Zafra was another 5 kms and though somewhat refreshed, by the time we entered the town it had become a slog. Our albergue was right on the opposite side of town.. It is very nice and we have a room for 5. I spent about 40 mins with my feet up the wall before I could face a shower.
Zafra is likened to Seville and is the only town that has the commercial chains and more glamorous shops. It has an old town with castle, convent and some amazing churches. There is a museum with muhedjar art(which but it was closed due to siesta). The place has a rich history and some charming squares. We eat at the albergue tonight. The hospitalaria is so happy and helpful. The walls are so thick at the Convento of SanFrancisco that the wifi only works close by the office. I abandon the blog for a wander round the old town. Or a hobble.
While cruising the old town I stumble on a shop with hiking boots on sale. I am desperate for relief so try a pair of 38. I have to borrow Karen's socks but they feel pretty good on my sore feet. The girl offers latex insoles and I am smiling. By the end of this trek I might need a 39!!
They are Nortons and cost me about $100 Aus. They have to be better than what I am wearing.
We return for dinner and early bed. We are going to bed when the locals are going out and I get the giggles and think we might not sleep. I sleep like a babe oblivious to trumpets and laughter outside our window!
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