Aldanueva del Camino to La Calzada de Bejar

This morning we just had to depart later, rest was so necessary. So, we were back in our boots only at 8:00. Sun was up above the mountain top and we were heading to Banos de Montemayor. Monte Mayor… Monte Maggiore, maybe another resemblance to my Ucka (Monte Maggiore).

Banos de Montemayor is a really lovely and developed little town located on this mountain pass. Reminded me somehow Cortina d’Ampezzo in the Dolomites… especially the calming and tasteful morning coffee in a local, modern bar and the fresh air finally around us. Up here in hills the air is fresh so we just sit for some time at the bar and get sunbathed. To exit this village we had to have another sharp climb but were rewarded with a beautiful view from the top. A water well gave us some further refreshment.

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Ok, the water was rather dropping then flowing but was pure mountain clean water! Washing with this spring water had also a symbolic meaning as – we are leaving Extremadura and washing from all the dust it left on us. It was “extrema” and “dura” for us. We are entering Castilla y Leon region. It looks so docile. First funny thing we saw was a sign on the local gas station “prohibido lavar turismos” that we like to translated as “forbidden to wash turists”. Funny.

Immediately we realize the path is more organized and better marked (more yellow arrows) and richer with water (Fuente del peregrino at Puerto de Bejar).

After a nice downhill (good path with a lot of trees/shadows), a stretch in the valley on the foots of some hills with monolithic stones! Crossed the Cuerpo de Hombre river over Puente de la Malena. Uphill again to enter La Calzada de Bejar and this path was heavy and primordial (reminded me somehow now my fathers birthplace – village of Cipri) with the steep path made of heavy stones.

The only place to stay is managed by a pair. The village preserves traditional houses on two floors, upper balconies made of wood and nicely decorated. For the first time we had a nice washing of clothes (for 3 Euros) which after we put (after a short sleep and a quick visit of the village center) drying in the courtyard of the albergue. Lodging was 15 Euros and a desent lunch was offerfed for 8.50 Euros.

The only place with internet access was the area close to the public clock and the only bar La Plaza. After the joint dinner at the albergue, on which all guestes (beside us, one German guy and Claude) had to present themselves at nineteen thrity sharp, we went again to the local pub for a bottle of wine. Barcelona was playing agains Ajax.

A good and cheap one as the whole bottle was just 4 Euros! At 22:00 we lefte the bare and that good wine helped to have a nice sleep.