DAY 19 - TEMBLEQUE TO VILLANUEVA DE BOGAS - 15KM

We slept in this morning, had breakfast at 08:00 and were on our way by 08:35. A much shorter day today, and a more benign path, were kind on our feet. Ana Maria is still suffering badly with a blister so we thought we would take it easy today.

The terrain is slowly changing from the flat plains to more low hills. In the distance we can now see the mountain ranges, looming in the far distance. Another hot day today, the only distraction a shepherd herding a flock of sheep and goats. We were glad to arrive at around midday. Trying to find where to stay was a problem. The guy in charge was on holiday, the local priest had gone on some trip or other and the Town Council Offices were closed, as today is Saturday. We found the only bar that appeared to be open and had a drink. There we made enquiries. Everyone knew where we were supposed to stay, but no one knew where the key was! Umpteen telephone calls later, including help from the local mayor's brother, we finally found the keys. They had been in the bar all along. This is Spain, after all!

Our accommodation tonight is Spartan; mats on the floor but at least there is a good shower and a loo. And in the bar, as Miriam might say.......there was wine! Tomorrow we face 23/25 Kms to the town of Almonacid de Toledo, the last stop before reaching Toledo and the end of the fearsome vast plains of La Mancha. We are told there is nowhere to stay in Almonacid. The locals here think there is. A friend was going to fly in to Madrid, hire a car and meet us in Almonacid. Sadly this has not worked out so I hope we don't find ourselves stuck. Watch this space!