Today we walk from Villamayor to Montes de Oca. But first, we must pass through the charming town of Belorado, where we see the 15th century Church of Santa María, built against limestone cliffs. Behind the church, you can still see some of the ancient cave dwellings where hermits once lived! Also look out for Belorado’s walk of fame and see if you can find Martin Sheen’s foot and handprint. The Way’s team were based nearby during the filming and the actor graced the town with a wonderful memoir.
Our walk with then take us through Tosantos, that boasts an even more dramatic chapel cave, which is visible from the Camino. Then it’s time for another gourmet picnic lunch on the trail. We’ve been walking for some hours now, so you must be hungry, and thirsty for a beer or a glass of chilled wine!
Today we end the walk in Villafranca Montes de Oca, which makes reference to one of the many towns where French pilgrims settled. Its location at the foot of Montes de Oca is infamous for the bandits that roamed the area taking advantage of the pilgrims. These bandits would then pray at the Church of Santiago for protection from the Saint! Ah, the ironies…
