28 miles would make this the longest Etape of our Camino and again, given an even hotter weather forecast than the previous day, it was decided to shorten the walk by taking taxis some way along.
07.30 and ready to go.
We alighted at a hilltop by a small sanctuary in Borgota.
Blessings and protection needed especially from the sun.It’s an open road for some distance .A rare and welcome spot of shade.On the way now to Viana with views of neatly laid vines.On some of the vineyards there are roses,not planted for any aesthetic reason. Pale yellow for white grapes,and red or pink for red grapes – if the roses decline before the vines it’s a signal to the winemaker to intervene.The welcome sight of Viana in the distance and the certainty of refreshments after a long stretch.Created in the 13th Century,enclosing several settlements within a fortified wall. Despite its strategic position in various wars between Castile and Navarre throughout its history , it has always been an important pilgrim town and at one point had four pilgrim hospices. The Camino goes right through the centre of the old town. We took a seat opposite the Iglesia de Santa MariaGold painted Baroque Retabla which focuses on Mary’s life,especially her ascension into heaven.The man himself and we got a sello here – not always available in churches as they are often closed.We took a longish break here and enjoyed the people spotting in this lively atmospheric street.We exited by an ancient gate and made our way out of Viana,downwards thankfully.Still seven miles to Logrono.The map reminds that we are heading into La Rioja.I’m quite indifferent to graffiti but this one I was quite taken by.There are no services between Viana and Logrono but this made a pleasant bag break and an opportunity to take on more water.It would take some time to figure out all the imagery in this attractive mural.Logrono in the distance.Making good progress despite the heat.Up and over the Autovia.An interesting grass plant .On the outskirts of the city.The EU as so often has been the case, supported the improvement of the Camino into Logrono. However,during the works a mass grave was discovered of victims of Franco’s oppression.Closer and closer…La Rioja You pass through some welcome shady gardens with a pleasant water feature to remind you that the Ebro is not far away now.Up and over the river Ebro, the widest we have encountered so far.A very elegant bridge with the spires of Logrono’s churches emerging.My first ever selfie,taken by mistake as we waited for Pelegrinos to arrive – a look that says what is needed most…Salud.Another fascinating saunter on the Camino Frances.
I’ll finish this Blog with a few photos from our afternoon and evening in Logrono.
The streets in the Old Town
Friday evening and the tapas trail in and around Calle del Laurel gets really busy.
The Cathedral,squares and churches are in abundance.
We had a meal in the square opposite the cathedral,sampling both white and red Rioja wine. Logrono is worth a longer stay but as is the way on the Camino it was time to walk on to Najera.The Hotel Los Bracos Breton de Los Herreros lobby.
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