We stayed in an albergue in Requejada overnight and set off to walk the 22 kms to Cõbreces where we agreed to review the situation to see if we would continue on to Comillas.
After 10 kms we arrived in Santillana del Mar a little confused. Well, its name suggests its by the sea. It is in fact some way from the sea. In fact the sea is not to be seen?
We enjoyed a delighful stop at the church of St Peter near Oreńa. A very helpful volunteer provided refreshments and gave Sheila and I painted Camino shells to wear around our necks. He also advised us where to stay and booked us a room.
We arrived early in Cõbreces and after a picnic lunch we decided to press on the 10 kms to Comillas. This would normally take approx 3 hours. However, we found a shortcut and arrived tired at 4pm and booked in to the very comfortable Hotel Villa.
The scenery today was varied. Starting with an unattractive industrial lanscape around Requejada. It changed dramatically and returned to rolling pastures similar to that in the Alps with mountain pastures offering panoramic views of the mountains. This afternoon when we returned to the coast we enjoyed clifftop views and deserted sandy beaches.
All in all, a marvellous days walk. The only downside is that after 14 days my feet still ache at the end of the day.
Wandering Boomers 