Day 17 - Part two

After Léon I walked to Villa de Mazarife going through La Virgen del Camino on the way. Not worth stopping as a very tired, scruffy suburb of Léon. Just after this point the scenery changed again to become quite like the New Forest. Some nice little pueblos (villages) again and an old chap moving his cows from one field to another. Another pair of abandoned boots.
I stopped for an ice cold coke as it is up in the high thirties again and was given some tapas free as it was a quiet time. That is all I have had to eat today as you don't eat until 7:30 or 8:00 pm and the shops are all shut most of the time (when you are hungry!)
Am staying at a quiet little albergue with about 50 bunk beds in one room but there are only about 15 of us here at the moment so not too bad. I am meeting more people now as I am travelling faster than most and waking with new groups.

Day 17 - Mansilla de las Mulas to Léon then Mazarife - Part 1

A very early start this morning due partly for my desire to see the milky way in these light pollution free skies and also the very noisy snoring of a couple near me! It is only eleven miles into Léon and usually the entry and exit to the larger cities is not pleasant on the eyes. (or nose). Once you get onto the old city you are rewarded with some spectacular architecture and a well maintained, clean atmosphere. It is very trendy in some areas but also maintains its medieval heritage. The cathedral is spectacular as was the one in Burgos. It was once a Roman military garrison and base for the 7th legion (the name Léon comes from legion) there is also heritage from the Visigoths, the Moors and later Christian forces. Gaudi's "Casa de Botines" building is also impressive.
There was a fruit and veg market by the cathedral this morning; very colourful.