Villadangos del Páramo to Hospital de Órbigo

11.9 km and 2:51 (see map).

I decided to split the 28 km from Villadangos del Páramo to Astorga into two days, to be kind to my improving leg. (‘Hospital’ refers not to where I’m staying the night – I’ve found a good albergue – but to a pilgrims hospital established in the 16th century by the Knights Hospitaller, on the right side of the Río Órbigo.)

On the way out of Villadangos del Páramo.

Long shadows in the soft light of the early morning. We’re still on the Meseta it seems, but the foothills of the upcoming mountains loom closer.

A beautiful day for walking. The Camino again followed the N-120 closely, but the traffic noise wasn’t so bad.

Many irrigation channels in the area.

Gratuitous shot of wildflowers.

Heading towards Hospital de Órbigo.

Still haven’t seen any.

Welcome to Hospital de Órbigo …

… and this is the first real view of the town itself – a stunning restored medieval bridge.

Jousting be done here.

House styles somewhat different from other towns so far.

León to Villadangos del Páramo

19.3 km and 4:55 (see map). Slow and steady.

On the way out of León at dawn.

Through the ‘burbs …

… past the bodegas …

… to the first coffee stop, at La Virgen del Camino. About 7.5 km to here.

Alternative Camino route off to the left, but I decided to stay on main path …

… that followed essentially the route of the N-120.

Stork central. High demand in the area for infant delivery services?

More bodegas buried in the hillsides.

Approaching Villadangos del Páramo. Staying at the municipal albergue – €5 for the night.