Day 5 - Puente La Reina to Estella

We leave our cozy Hostel to head for Estella after a fantastic 3 course meal; 2 beers and a bottle of red between us for just €27 for both of us whilst watching the bull fighting on the TV.

When we check out the owner tells us that all the houses along this street were built in 12th Century and were the turrets to the fortified wall around the town, now converted. Our route out of the town takes us past some of the most spectacular ancient buildings so far.

The Camino crosses the river Arga at the 12th century pilgrim bridge

This was the only entrance and exit to the town.

The Camino then continues for 22km along undulating natural paths, passing vineyards and olive groves. Our elevation only changes by 150m today so it is a pleasant change from the steep ups and downs.

The Camino winds its way up to Cirauqui Plaza (which you can see in distance), parts of which have remained unchanged since the 13th century.

We continue on through Lorca and stop to have our picnic of fresh baked bread, local cheese and big fat ripe local tomatoes sitting on the bridge Villatuerta Puente in glorious sun shine.

Then came the rain!

It rained heavily for about an hour and then the sun broke through again.

We arrive at Estelle which is a busy large town; it's a bit of a shock to the system after the quiet and tranquility of the past 4 days.

I don't know who the beggar is sitting on the bench outside the church, but I bet I end up with him for the next 29 days.

Our Hostel for tonight is in the center of town and has plenty of bars and restaurants.

Tomorrow our destination is Los Arcos which has a free wine fountain (they must be mad), so can't wait.