Day 8 Villafranca to Torremijia

This was the introduction to Cava country. Mile after mile after mile of vineyards producing the cava that this area is famous for. This was a 30km day and the route had no stops so decided to have a detour off to Almendralejo at about the halfway point for lunch. This added 2 or 3 km to the total distance but a better plan than carrying food and water that far.

In case you were any doubt that Almendralejo is cava country, the big sign on the outskirts - City of Cava - dispels any lingering doubts.

Now it may have been the drink at lunch time but I had a perfect illusion a few miles out of Almendralejo. I was sure I could see a pilgrim ahead of me.

it was only when I got closer that I realised that my imagination was a bit over-active.

Alternatively they have Pilgrim Ents in this part of Spain,

Had booked in a hotel - the only hotel - in Torremejia. The first room had ants. The second room was filthy. You could tell this was not a first for when I checked out and told the receptionist that I was not staying somewhere so dirty and if she tried to charge my credit card I would call the police.... she just shrugged. Probably the third such conversation that day.

Fortunately the local albergue, next to the church and in a renaissance palace, was superb and served a great meal into the bargain. Quite a few pilgrims now on the trail.