Monday 28 April started quite normal, clear, cool and fresh.

We walked from Pamplona to Uterga over the Alto de El Perdón. Alto del Perdón, also known as “Hill of Forgiveness,” is a prominent peak and a significant landmark on the Camino Francés. Situated at an altitude of 770 meters, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is marked by a monument to pilgrims. A metal sculpture on the summit represents pilgrims from different eras, symbolizing the historical and enduring nature of the Camino. 

When we got to the hostel at Uterga, we were told the power was out (no lights, no hot water, no washer/dryer, no wifi). The power was out in Spain and Portugal, maybe even all of Europe. The rumour was that it was a cyber-attack, Putin’s fault (it wasn’t). Trains, airplanes, banks, card machines, elevators, nothing was working. With all the weirdness currently in the world, it was a bit scary. But, we took a cold shower, had some food (yeah for gas stoves!), and by 9:30 everyone at the hostel was in bed and most were sleeping. 

Power came back on sometime during the night and things returned to normal by morning. 

29 April was an up and down and up and down walk from Uterga to Lorca, through fields of wheat, peas and other vegetable products. For some reason it was a very tiring day. Wifi is not too strong at the hostel here, but here are a couple pictures from today’s hike:

We have hiked more than 100 kms so far! About 1/8th of the hike to Santiago. I feel healthy and good, but very tired. Very tired. Good night!