A little bit of France

Many moons ago some French viticulturists settled in this valley bringing their vines with them and causing the main town here to be called Villafranca del Bierzo. A large derelict castle dominates the town. 

I sat for an hour or so chatting in a cafe opposite the castle trying to decide whether to take the high route to Trabadelo (rather than the flatter valley route along the road...). At the junction I made my decision and struck out on an almost 45 degree incline. The view from the top was superb and the wildflowers stunning so the climb was well worth it! (And proved I must be getting fitter...!)

An Aussie from Brisbane caught up with me at the top and we strolled along together. Just near the end we took a wrong turn and were a little lost for a km or so, but ended up on the track further along. I was glad I was with him or I may have panicked just a little....

That's the alternate route way down there!