Astorga

First things, we started late!  We usually aim to be walking 6:30, 7am at the latest.  We didn't wake up until 6:30!  We didn't get on the trail until almost 8am and that felt so very late. 

The "trail" they this section is mostly rock road, unfit for foot or vehicle yet we trudge thru loyaly listening to our feet and legs screaming.  But we did cross the old Roman in Hospital

Leaving town it was pretty clear on someone's opinion of the trail split choice. 

Go straight and take the official trail by the highway and you'll be sad. Take a right and take the scenic route and you'll be happy.  We took the scenic route and we were happy.

Futher down the trail I was hoping that the donativo ran by David was still in operation - IT WAS! 

It was open and run by volunteer friends and it was just as good as 10 years ago! 

After that it was a 1.5km walk to the Cruz

And our first peek at the mountains that hold Cruz de ferro

And the thirsty Pilgrim

 

Another 5k or so and we finally entered the city proper, meet some friends and found our lodging with nice big fluffy TOWELS!  Towels, I miss you almost as much as I miss my family!

A quick lunch, some laundry, and a visit to the Gaudi Palace

And calling it a night early so we can hit the trail early and get onto the actual climb early (I am beginning to see a trend there).

📊 Camino Stats – Mon Sept 29, 2025

Day: 26

Location: Astorga

Stage: Villavante → Astorga (~21 km)

Total walked: ~467 km

Remaining (per Wise Pilgrim): ~259 km

% complete: ~64%

Avg so far: ~18 km/day

Needed avg to finish by Oct 13: ~21 km/day

👉 Under 260 km left. You’re officially in the final third of the Camino.