We left Orbigo early on a crisp and cold morning. The stall holders were packed up and gone. The town had transformed back to..,well…pretty much like any other town we’ve seen along the way. The medieval magic was no more. But oh what a wonderful weekend!

About 6km before astorgaI met David. He has been ‘off the grid (but clearly on other things)’ for 8 years. He has set up a little oasis for pilgrims, providing fresh fruit, juices, coffee etc for whoever needs it. For free. But it’s a nice gesture to make a donation. David told me he lives there himself, sleeping in the outdoors without electricity or running water, and no computer or mobile phone. The highlight of his day is the pilgrims who come through. I thought I should ask him for some life advice and he told me not to worry about anything, that everything works out in the end (or something like that).

We spent a lovely day in Astorga with our Spanish teacher from Melbourne who has moved back here for a simpler life. We were so lucky to have our own private tour guide! Astorga is pretty. Don’t think I’d want to live here though.  And I still haven’t found enlightenment. (But I am coming to terms with the size of my butt!). Some photos…