To Alcuscar 19km Stage 2

September 13

We left our accommodations at 7am, the last of the peregrinos to leave. It was still dark and therefore went to the bar for coffee and breakfast. Hard to believe many people start walking so early in the dark for 1-2 hours to reduce sun exposure. Yes it's cooler but that is way too early for us and easier to miss waymarkers inthe dark.

The trek today was through the hills and it was interesting how, as the terrain changed so did the vegetation. The first half of the day was through orchids of acorn trees and the last part through orchids of fig trees, olive trees and vineyards. Of course the latter vegetation enjoying the hot climate we just entered.

The highlight of the day was our stay at Acogida Convento Esclavos de Maria y de Los Pobres Albergue. This old convent, besides offering accommodations, houses the mentally and physically ill. It was a humbling experience at the evening mass to have some of the patients and hospital staff also participating in the mass. This was followed by a special blessing by the priest to the peregrinos. Afterwards the peregrinos had a communal dinner of soup, salad, pork steaks and fruit. What a feast!

See Aluescar pics