Upward climb to Foncebadon

DAVE: This morning, we woke to chilly weather; the coldest so far. The temperature reading was 5 degrees C (41 degrees fahrenheit). For the first time, we layered up (long-sleeve, short sleeve, fleece, rain jacket, wool hat, long pants). We are rising in elevation these days so anticipate colder temperatures to be with us for awhile.  We left in the darkness around 7:30, knowing it was going to be a long slog today. 

Astorga was a nice little town and I will miss it. Great restaurants, interesting shops, fantastic chocolate (they're known for chocolate; yes, I bought some). Our stay was way too short. For the first half hour, we navigated out of the town, looking forward to the countryside ahead. We passed through four villages on our way to Foncebaton. Our stops today were brief since we had decent elevation to climb and had to arrive in Foncebaton by 3:00. The sky was mostly clear, with some high clouds that signaled a change in the weather was coming.  Off in the distance, we could see the mountains we will be climbing over in the next couple days. They didn't look as daunting as the Pyrenees, but it will be the first time in about three weeks where our stamina (and feet) will be tested. 

Thankfully, the walk today wasn't as hard as we had anticipated. We arrived in Foncebaton around 1:30, tired but in good shape. The first order of business was a shower, then rest. 

We have been traveling with no day off since Burgos.  Since the weather was perfect for the last week or so, we had been pushing ahead while it lasted.  Our luck may have run out since word is that rain is forecast for the next couple days.  Nothing serious,  but rain nonetheless.  We may hole up in Foncebaton for an extra night if the weather is rainy when we wake up.  We'll see.