Camino Day 7 – A Day Off

Wednesday 26th April 2023

Distance 0km ( 0 ml). Total Ascent A load of steps up to the church)

Estella

I slept well and had a lie in. It was a real luxury not having to get up and out . I took the opportunity to empty my backpack and re-pack everything in its proper place and gather my laundry together. I decided I would use the hotel’s laundry service for a few Euros and make the most of this day off.

I walked into town to have a leisurely look around. Estella was a lovely place. I was staying in the more modern bit of the town, with retail units and modern apartment blocks but once I strolled down the hill over the river into the older part it was quite charming.

The main town was full of the archetypal narrow streets with apartments and balconies with washing strung up. It occurred to me that no one worried about their underwear being on show.

I got coffee and a pastry for breakfast. It was good to be around when there were normal Spanish people out and about. There were a variety of shops from normal to posh.

I found the church of San Pedro de la Rua up load of steps. Apparently there is a lift somewhere but I never saw it.

It was such a peaceful place. I took the opportunity to sit for a while and pray.

I felt grounded again, my purpose renewed and a new desire that God would help me let go of my fears and trust him. I felt such a deep sense of gratitude that I had the chance to make this pilgrimage. I did some more exploration around the town.

I went back to the hotel, had a lie down in the heat of the afternoon and caught up with my journal writing.. I then went to get some stuff at the big supermarket across the road. The evening came and I decided to return to the square. This time I didn’t fancy a meal and just indulged in unhealthy snacks instead. Then back to the hotel ready for a quiet night’s sleep and an early start tomorrow.