Mansilla de las Mulas to León, 13.4 miles
Started off walking at my usual time in 37-degree weather. I was layered up and bundled up with jacket, buff and gloves and I was actually fairly comfortable. I very quickly met Park from South Korea and we walked the entire way together. He spoke some English with a heavy accent, so conversing all day was somewhat arduous, although he probably thought the same of me.
He was another one who likes his Google Maps and took us off the main route several times, though I am convinced it was for the better. These alternate routes tend to be more rural and interesting. He also insisted that we stop in one very small town because a particular shop was "famous" for their pastries. Admittedly, the chocolate croissant I ate was delicious.
Once we entered León we still had a 50-minute walk to our albergues. León is a very big city, comparatively speaking to the small villages and towns we normally walk through. The population is near 125,000 residents and the city seemed very, very big.
The absolutely "must see" in León is the Cathedral of León, built in the 1400s and known for its stained glass and gothic architecture. It is huge and you can see it (or at least its top) from very far away. I toured it and it is absolutely beautiful. So much stained glass, so many very old statues and paintings and gold artwork. There is a museum as well and it is just as awe inspiring.
By this point, Park and I had gone our separate ways but not before he gave me a blue thread bracelet. I did not understand the meaning of it but I believe it is something special.
The Camino is full of the kindest, most interesting, and helpful people imaginable. I said once before that I have absolutely no fear on the Camino. It is such a wonderfully liberating feeling.
I am listening to the church bells tolling right now...something you hear in every village, town and city. It's become a reassuring peal.
I continue to feel well, no aches or pains, the smile is still glued to my face. I go to bed every night looking forward to the next day, and wake up excited. The mileage seems like nothing now. I am eating more (which is a good thing) and sleeping well. The Camino brings a certain calm.
Only 2 more days on the Meseta.
Buen Camino
