Day 17 Tue 08 Apr
A short day, 8 kilometers to Estella, to arrive early. We like Estella, its streets curved to follow the fast flowing stream cutting it in two. Short history – over 1,000 years ago, Estella was established half way between Puente la Reina and Los Arcos to provide overnight shelter for pilgrims to Santiago. It prospered and today numerous buildings of that era remain. We lunched at an excellent restaurant featuring typical local food. Pam went for lamb chilindrón (lamb, red peppers, onion & garlic); and for me the chicken in apple juice sauce – both cooked on a wood fire.

Day 18 Wed 09 Apr
Departing at 0800, we easily made opening time at the free pilgrim’s wine fountain at Irache, a few kilometers out of Estella. Properly strengthened for the 19 kilometers more to Los Arcos, we took the low path, passing through a couple of nice villages. Perfect weather, nice walking.

Day 19 Thu 10 Apr
After a good nights sleep at the best place on the entire Camino, Casa de la Abuela (Grandma’s House), we set off energized and made good time to Torres del Rio. After eating a delicious, but huge, apple pastry for breakfast it felt like lead in the boots for the following climb. Still, good weather and good walking, 19 kilometers to Viana – a lovely old town atop a hill. Next – La Rioja.