A Gidina to Laza 34km

 The whole Albergue except for about four people was up at 6.30 and ready to leave for the big climb and descent into Laza.  We are up early to try and avoid the construction trucks that are using the same route over the mountain. This is the only thing that is up early in Spain I think. Huge trucks shifting dirt for this amazing fast train project.  Finally we leave them behind. I am glad because they are unnerving and I leap off the road a couple of times. There is a Camino diversion but it adds 5 kms and that is not helpful.  

The landscape is pretty amazing as we are above the tree line and views are quite spectacular especially when we come across the huge Rio Camba Embalse As Portos dam.

The dam

This is a ridge of little farms and then we get to Campbeccerros a small town with a bar and a Casa Rural. Some pilgrims stay here to break the day but we continue on. It is fascinating to see the contrast of a farmer herding his 6 sheep with a couple of dogs, up past the bar through town and then coming across the amazing 'James Bond' like fast train works. Tunnels are being carved, rail lines created but the whole mountain seems to be shifting dirt and stone from one place to another. We walk down a path of beautiful slate shards.  We come across a small town, semi abandoned, An  Erias where a young man has set up a small donation based way station for pilgrims. We stop to rest and wait for Peter. The young man is a firefighter cum forestry worker who has decided with two friends to help pilgrims.  

While waiting his gorgeous dog, a collie cross and a very friendly Siamese cat entertain us. Then suddenly there is a swarm of bees and a young bee keeper in his gear holding fast  to his veiled hat, comes chasing the swarm.  We all leap to follow the swarm of bees but it flies over the fence and the young man takes off in another direction. I later learn that is how people get bees in the hive. They follow the swarm of bees until it stops then capture the queen bee and put her in the hive or near the hive and the bees go in voluntarily because they are looking for a home. After this amusing diversion and rest we hitch up the packs and set off. Now we climb again and finally crest the hill and start descending. 

This goes on for ages. It is supposed to be 14 kms from Campbeccerros but it seems much longer. It is hot and there is no shade. The views are delightful but the towns are way below. We stagger into town and register with the Protection civil and get our key to the Albergue. Some of the pilgrims took a taxi because it was so tough. I am disappointed to find I have an upper bunk but frankly I am so stuffed I just want to lie down with my feet up the wall. I don't even have the energy for a shower yet.  I actually fall asleep. Peter is in the same condition. Andy the greyhound is delegated to source dinner, drinks and wifi.
Finally I have a shower and feel better but I am tired and will sleep very well tonight regardless of anybody's snores! The Albergue is modern but the windows don't open in our 'cell'  of 4 bunks so I will have to insist on the door being open. The showers are good but have no curtains and expose you to the world if the door is open to the bathroom! You also have to go all the way out the front door to take your washing out to dry. The kitchen and lounge area are very pleasant  and modern though. 

We find a bar for wifi and try to do the blog and emails but we are all tired and just want to sleep. I have two fantas  before I can face a wine. I am sure i am slightly dehydrated. I just have salad and yoghurt for dinner then off to bed. Zonked!