18 miles in 94°F heat from Nájera to a monastery donativo in Grañon tested me hard. After steep hills, no shade, and low energy, I arrived exhausted but was revived by shared cooking, mass, and dinner with fellow pilgrims. A tough day turned into one of the most meaningful Camino nights.

18 miles from Logroño to Nájera brought vineyards, hills, and a fast early pace before the heat slowed me down. A pilgrim fridge popsicle, a knee brace, and a new friend over dinner made the long day end on a good note before resting for tomorrow’s walk.

12 miles from Torres del Río to Logroño brought rolling hills, sunny skies, and new friends. After a long day walking and exploring tapas streets, I finally enjoyed a private hotel room with a bath, snacks, and time to recharge before tomorrow’s longer, hotter trek on the Camino.

12.78 miles from Villamayor de Monjardín to Torres del Río brought sunny skies, flat trails, café breaks, and shared miles with Mark. We fed a stray cat, reached town by noon, and ended the day with laundry, journaling, and a group pilgrim dinner before resting for tomorrow’s walk.

14.73 miles from Cirauqui to Villamayor de Monjardín brought sunny climbs, a famous wine fountain stop, and a warm welcome at Albergue Oasis Trails. After foot baths, a shared dinner, and reflection on the terrace, I rested up for tomorrow’s hot 12-mile walk with sore legs but high spirits.