The signs don't lie.

I am resolved not to start walking before daylight. And today justified that fact – aside from the fact that the track out of Ariega de Ambros was very difficult to find, the route itself was downright dangerous. Aside from the rock bed and gravel upon which one walked, there were several stretches where there were unguarded cliffs on the left-hand side of the path.  

But this led to a little town called Molinaseca, where I ate breakfast, and appreciated the narrow streets and cafés.

At the top of the hill leaving Molinaseca, Ponferrada came in sight. It looked like a pretty straight hike, but the signs for the Camino directed me off the main road and onto a track through farmlands that seemed to be taking me directly away from the city.  But the signs don't lie – and after three or 4 km, I found myself walking beside the tall old walls of the Templar castle.  

I made my way to my hotel, waited for my luggage to arrive, washed out my laundry, had a bath – luxury - and went out to do some sightseeing.  

The Templar chapel was quite lovely – although a bit over done with the image of suffering. Perhaps this is understandable, given the history of the Knights Templer, and their Grand Master Jacques de Molay (my Masonic friends would know this lore).  

Temple Park was just across the street from my hotel, or enjoyed cocktail hour, and then retired to my hotel for dinner and rest.

Today's Music:  Beethoven Seventh Symphony, second movement

Today's Paces:  28,189

Tomorrow's Prayer Intentions:  Anne Lively, who clung to life so valiantly despite the setbacks after her double lung transplant last spring.  May she rest in peace and rise in glory.