Day 2 Tardajos to Castrojeriz 31 klms
We leave at 7AM in an attempt to evade the worst of the afternoon heat, which reaches 38 degrees and much more when radiating off the rocky hills around us. The terrain is flat and dry with rolling, desolate plains, which promise little fertility. I cannot help wonder that if not for this historic road, the land would be abandoned to scavenging animals. We pass many ruins and old buildings, with no life stirring within.
17 klms into our day`s hike we find the remarkable ruins of Convent de St Anton, with the auto route passing under one its ancient arches. What is left of the convent is now used as a refuge, however with good momentum we continue to Castrojeriz.
Castrojeriz, is an amazing Roman village with an imposing fort perched on a stony hill behind it. Founded in 760 by the Goth Sigeric, brother of the Count of Castille and during its peak in the 14th Century, boasted four hospitals and four churches. Like Burgos, the village provided a strategic link against the Moors. However, like most villages we enter, everything is closed during siesta.
I try to visit the village, but the heat is intense and will allow me only to skip between shady spots in the road. When the stores open again, it is time to restock our provisions and drink icy cold beer in large iced glasses. Dinner or `menu peregrines` is a three course affair with horrible wine, but the food is plenty and costs between 8-10 Euros. Between us the comeraderie is great and I am appreciating the unfettered, male company. Smile meter is 8/10