I woke up miraculously not sore. Or not any more stiff than usual, I suppose my body has finally adapted and is ready to take on harder days! So, while my schedule had me stopping today before the big climb I decided to go for the full 29km, 7 of which is up a very steep incline. The first 22km absolutely sailed by, I didn’t even take a break. I felt so surprisingly strong, I just wanted to keep walking. Now that I’m back on the main stages the amount of hikers has increased a lot, though it seems not terribly busy, I was rarely on a stretch without being able to see anyone. But I’m not concerned about it, I’m significantly faster than most hikers, so accommodations shouldn’t be a problem. Although, the multitudes of 100km hikers will join in Sarria, so we’ll see how that goes!

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Today was long. So excuse the shortness of this post. I’m exhausted, I nearly walked a marathon. It was not what I set out to do, but when I got to my destination 32km in, I felt good, and the town was odd. So I thought, I’ll walk to the next place to stay 2km further, and then I thought, it’s only 6km to Villafranca. And so, I went! My legs felt good until the last few kilometers, but the true test will be in the morning. Regardless, I think a short day is in order tomorrow!

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How can I begin to describe today. I suppose by saying it was one of the best walks I’ve had thus far. It is also the furthest, and prettiest. Finally, my legs feel strong beneath me, and are willing to carry me further.  I feel absolutely exhausted, and elated. This day is what I’ve been waiting for.

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My accommodation choices have been erratic enough that I’ve found myself amongst the company of extraordinarily different hikers. At the communal dinner last night, which was delicious and healthy (and also the first time I’ve had a meal without wine, you’re welcome, liver!)  I met a whole new breed of hiker. 

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