Day #4 May 20, 2018 Viskarret to Arre

Oh! What a day! Donna and I had a delicious albergue breakfast and started out for Zubiri which was about 10km away. The walk was uphill and downhill but manageable and breathtaking. We stopped and aired our feet a few times and ate some fruit. We arrived in Zubiri around 2pm and enjoyed lunch with an Australian couple. After a rest we decided to go on. Zubiri wasn’t calling either of us so off we went. In Ilarratz we met Neil from South Africa. He began the Camino five years ago and fell in love while here. He never finished the Camino but he did return and marry his love. They bought an ancient church that they are currently restoring. They also have a 3 year old little girl. Check out Facebook to see the photos if you don’t see them here. The altar displays Pagan and Christian symbols. Ninth century dating has been confirmed! By the time we arrived in Larrasoaña I was winding down but I was confident I could make it to the next town of Akerreta. We were just ahead of the rain. Donna was full of energy and focused on Zabaldika which is a convent with an albergue run by the nuns. By the time we arrived in Akerreta I was tired and hungry. We were surprised to find the entire village closed. We did not anticipate Sunday and the fact that it was a Feast Day. On to Zabaldika. I was spent! By the time we arrived it was getting late and the convent was way up on top of a huge hill. I don’t have pictures because I could not spare an ounce of energy. There had to be 200 steps on the path straight up the hill. Donna went ahead to get us booked while I trudged along. I finally made it huffing and puffing. The convent was full! Yikes! The nun was so wonderfully helpful! She got on the phone and called the next Refugio which was run by monks. She booked us our beds and called a taxi. She conversed with the driver and put us in the cab and sent us off into the night. We arrived in Arre 12 hours after we left Viskarret! The pilgrims there welcomed us with open arms. I ate while Donna and our new friend and rescuer, Roger, walked up front to check us in for the night. I showered and went to bed feeling cared for by all the angels that surrounded me. I know there are lessons here. I’m certain they will be revealed in the coming days. Buen Camino!