Day 6 - Puente La Reina to Estella

14/10 /2023 Saturday

21.9 kms

Fine, sunny, hot

Accommodation: Hostal La Rua

Puente La Reina (Qieen's Bridge):

"This Romanesque bridge spans the bed of the Arga river and dates the 11th century. It was built by Queen Doña Mayor, the wife of Sancho III of Navarre, and is one of the emblems of the Way of Saint James."

Started today's walk with steep climb. Met 2 guys and a girl each walking with their three dogs.

The medieval villages walked past are beautiful.

There were two refreshment stops set up by local people en route. Both offered foods and drinks by donation. The first one was run by a young couple. I had two slices of melon and a can of iced tea. Needed them. Hot and bother.

The second one was unmanned. Honest system.

Met a young guy from Beijing. He "interviewed" me for his social media program. 🤣🤣

Hostal La Rua is owned by Asun. She is fantastic. The place is tastefully decorated. She said soon after its opening, Covid hit. She had to close it in 2020 and 2021. Her daughter prefers staying in Madrid. But she comes to visit mum from time to time. This weekend was such occasion.

As the Spanish National Day celebrations continued, there was a folk dancing show in the Square. Enjoyed their dancing much. The dancers came into the restaurant I was having dinner. I showed them the videos I took. We "talked" happily. Joyful and joyous

The Spanish Restaurant was owned and run by a Chinese family who migrated to Spain 30 years ago. Every patron seems to know Cristina, the daughter, well. She is lovely and friendly. Serving with a smile. The paella was yummy, as was the tapa every patron seemed to order.

All in all, a happy day.