LIVE from the Camino Pilgr on the Levante

[JLWV]

pilgr, KinkyOne, after your comments I checked for Casa rural Giners in Vallada. It still appears on the net, but as apartments and not casa rural. See http://www.vallada.es/va/content/apartaments-giners . Next Saturday I will pass there and try to see it.

pilgr, this morning I was with my wife where you saw wrong yellow arrows, some 4 km before Xativa. They are not exactly wrong, but false, as I suspected. By the moment I putted crosses over them, although the best should be to paint again the whole wall! . Reasons for suspecting were too much arrows together, different yellow, and bad drawing.

 

[KinkyOne]

pilgr, KinkyOne, after your comments I checked for Casa rural Giners in Vallada. It still appears on the net, but as apartments and not casa rural. See http://www.vallada.es/va/content/apartaments-giners . Next Saturday I will pass there and try to see it.

pilgr, this morning I was with my wife where you saw wrong yellow arrows, some 4 km before Xativa. They are not exactly wrong, but false, as I suspected. By the moment I putted crosses over them, although the best should be to paint again the whole wall! . Reasons for suspecting were too much arrows together, different yellow, and bad drawing.

Many times on Levante, especially first few days to Xativa I found signage kind of confusing. Let me explain @JLWV . I have pretty good sense of orientation and am always aware where the sun is or better put where it should be. I just have to look at the map and remember the general direction(s) for that day. Because of that two reasons I was never really lost but on a lot of occasions I noticed arrows only after I made my decision which way to take. I attached two photos of one such case which was already solved here on the forum as "The Cottonwood Forrest Mystery" It's a spot between Villalazan and Villaralbo just short of Zamora. When you come to this shed there is a straight path over the canal slightly to the right. Our brains work in a way that it's logical to go straight but it isn't always a case. Like here. After the shed you should stay on main path which veers to the left. But there is only one arrow and it is painted on the other side of the shed and you can see it only if you look back. What's the use of an arrow painted that way?

I found quite a lot such spots on Levante (another one I can remember right now is entering Alzira) and I gave a lot of thinking to that matter while walking. I'm sure the reason is that the arrows on less walked Caminos are painted by locals which could walk their stretch blindfolded because they know virtually every stone there. I would suggest that from time to time you ask pilgrims to report back where these tricky spots are and together we can make signage better.

But anyway a BIG thank you to Amigos all over Spain for your dedication in maintaining albergues, markings, web pages etc.!

 

[JLWV]

I agree with you KinkyOne, feedback is important. Pilgr is doing it, and I do when I am on the way.

From home (25km South of Valencia) to Santiago I missed the way three times, but as I leave maps with tracks it was never problem and I could turn back to the way a little further.

From octobre to June, every two weeks, a team of the Valencia's Association refresh the marking of a segment (some 15 km, as painting the red and white marks of GR239 is slower than painting only yellow arrows with spray!) from Valencia to Albacete.

In some spots circumstances oblige to move the way (a dangerous cross in Alzira, a large industrial area in Silla...) and the signals on the old way are not always rubbed out, so if you miss the first change signal you can be disturbed, but not lost. When pilgrims inform about it we check and correct.

Buen camino

 

[KinkyOne]

I agree with you KinkyOne, feedback is important. Pilgr is doing it, and I do when I am on the way.

From home (25km South of Valencia) to Santiago I missed the way three times, but as I leave maps with tracks it was never problem and I could turn back to the way a little further.

From octobre to June, every two weeks, a team of the Valencia's Association refresh the marking of a segment (some 15 km, as painting the red and white marks of GR239 is slower than painting only yellow arrows with spray!) from Valencia to Albacete.

In some spots circumstances oblige to move the way (a dangerous cross in Alzira, a large industrial area in Silla...) and the signals on the old way are not always rubbed out, so if you miss the first change signal you can be disturbed, but not lost. When pilgrims inform about it we check and correct.

Buen camino

Completely understand it. And again thanks for all your work!
I just wanted to say that sometimes for local folks things are very logical and you wouldn't paint a marker at certain point because you know from the width or structure of the path to the left that it is only a farmer's service path. But foreigners (and maybe even Spaniards from other parts of Spain) wouldn't ever imagine that I speak mostly of these causes.

Yes, Alzira... I followed arrows to the last roundabout on CV-50 before the river and there I couldn't find any more arrows. So I crossed the river on CV-50 but I guess I should go left somewhere before that roundabout and over the river into old part of town. I've seen it later with the GPS track.

Anyway I wouldn't want to see so much arrows and other markers on so-called less walked Caminos (which I like so much) as there are on Camino Frances, that's really crazy. Sometimes you have to get lost to be able to find yourself

 

[Brandy]

Hola
Sorry if I go back on credencial, but did anybody say that they sell it in the cathedral too?
I should find one at the hostel where I'll spend a night in Valencia, mailed by Ivar, but I like to have a backup.
Thanks
Brandy

 

[peregrina2000]

Hi, Brandy, the cathedral does not have them, but the Amigos do. If you are there on Friday, they are open at 5pm and have both the Levante credencial as well as the traditional one sold by the cathedral.

http://www.vieiragrino.com/camino/camino.asp

 

[pilgr]

Hi, Brandy, the cathedral does not have them, but the Amigos do. If you are there on Friday, they are open at 5pm and have both the Levante credencial as well as the traditional one sold by the cathedral.

http://www.vieiragrino.com/camino/camino.asp

The Amigos are also open on Wed 10am to 130pm.

 

[KinkyOne]

Hola Matt, how are you doing? Short day today?

 

[pilgr]

Every day is a short day, some more short than others! I walked from Moix to La Fonda. The people at La Bodega tried to tell me it was 31k (not 26) from La Font to Almansa. That is a pretty signif difference! I will try my luck with the nuns there. Do u think I need to call ahead as per the suggestion of the Amigos website?

 

[KinkyOne]

Every day is a short day, some more short than others! I walked from Moix to La Fonda. The people at La Bodega tried to tell me it was 31k (not 26) from La Font to Almansa. That is a pretty signif difference! I will try my luck with the nuns there. Do u think I need to call ahead as per the suggestion of the Amigos website?

Well, I don't want to scare you off about La Font - Almansa stretch, but my Endomondo app measured it at 32kms... But! Last summer I ran Endomondo and Wikiloc apps at the same time and distances and must say that Wikiloc is much more accurate. Endomondo kind of exaggerate for approx.5-10%. Don't know the reason for sure, but I think their satellite connections are poorer than those of Wikiloc. That's visible when I look at the graphics and Endomondo is a constant zig-zag line although I was walking straight for 10kms and Wikiloc on the other hand is much more straight line. So I would substract 3kms from 32kms which makes 29kms from La Font to Almansa.
But you don't have any intermediate stops between them. So one option is to just walk while you're still in your comfort zone and then hitchhike or call a taxi and return next day to same spot. Or simply skip a part of the way.

I'm looking at my notes now and see that crossing over highway and coming to N-430 (which leads directly to the city) was at 20,5kms. I guess that's approximately the point where flooding before Almansa might started. And here you'll have option to hitchhike if needed.

 

[KinkyOne]

Ah, yes, about the nuns... I don't know, I just showed up and there were at least two free rooms for me and another pilgrim. You have directions in one of the previous posts by @alansykes I think.

 

[pilgr]

Always a monumental event, I stumbled upon 3 German Peregrinos in La Font! Peter, Hubert, Kirsten

 

[peregrina2000]

Such a great picture, amazing how running into peregrinos puts a smile on everyone's face. So you are in La Font de la Figuera, are you in the albergue?

I didn't call ahead for the nuns in Almansa either, but I think you're right that the guidebook says they appreciate a heads up. There may only be two rooms, because after we arrived (two French in one room, me in another), another pilgrim showed up and had to go to a pensión. We never saw her again, so maybe that was the straw that did her in.

 

[JLWV]

Hola pilgr, this morning at the Amigos three fellows, ladies, told me they saw you yesterday with the German people. It is a funny thing you can spend days seeing nobody, and at a moment meet several.

Laurie, Brandy: the concern about closing of Pensión Paris is almost solved. At this moment fellows from the Amigos are speaking with the manager of other accommodation to give the same service as did Paris. On Friday night (in Spain) I will be able to give data.

Kinky, this morning I had not yet read your last message, but with the Amigos we commented it should be good to have with us somebody who does not know the way when we go checking the signalization. The same you say. Not easy to do, may be we have to take profit of pilgrims' passing... It is matter under study...

 

[KinkyOne]

Kinky, this morning I had not yet read your last message, but with the Amigos we commented it should be good to have with us somebody who does not know the way when we go checking the signalization. The same you say. Not easy to do, may be we have to take profit of pilgrims' passing... It is matter under study...

Exactly I think you just have to ask a pilgrim coming by to your office to obtain credencial or guidebook to report back and I'm sure a lot of them would do that. When you know that somebody really IS concerned about the matter then you put a bit of your own effort into it.
Good luck with that and I swear I'll get in touch next time in Valencia. But then again I can't be of much help because now I already know the way

Have a nice day, hello to other Amigos and congratulations for your female members for International Women's Day!

 

[Brandy]

Hi, Brandy, the cathedral does not have them, but the Amigos do. If you are there on Friday, they are open at 5pm and have both the Levante credencial as well as the traditional one sold by the cathedral.

http://www.vieiragrino.com/camino/camino.asp

Thanks Laurie
I have called the Hostel this morning and they told me the credential , mailed by Ivar, has arrived. So no need to go searching for one. All I need now is to buy new sticks by Decathlon and a telephone sim by Orange.
And a good paella for dinner.


Cheers
Brandy

 

[Donovan]

Every day is a short day, some more short than others! I walked from Moix to La Fonda. The people at La Bodega tried to tell me it was 31k (not 26) from La Font to Almansa. That is a pretty signif difference! I will try my luck with the nuns there. Do u think I need to call ahead as per the suggestion of the Amigos website?

Hi Matt, I've just checked my photo records: left La Font at 07:15, arrived Almansa 14:15. Seven hours total, so allowing for stops probably a little under six hours on foot. Knowing my normal pace, 26km sounds much closer to the mark than 31. This stage is very flat, with hardly any shade and no water. It's lovely big-sky walking.
Donovan

 

[pilgr]

Tomorrow the plan is to go to Alpera from Almansa. Any suggestions on how to get there (and back) off the Camino?

 

[pilgr]

Approaching the flooded portion of the camino 90min before Almansa. The Stop sign says it all!

 

[pilgr]

Solution: Walk 90min on the highway to Almansa; or walk 5-10 min on the highway toward Almansa, taking a right off the highway onto a maintained dirt road just beyond a small house. This dirt road crosses the camino after walking 10 min.

 

[pilgr]

Here is me (blue dot) walking on the road from space. The highway is on the bottom of the pic, the line going across the bottom left to right. I am approaching the intersection, going from bottom to top. At the intersection I take a left. You will see camino markings.

 

[KinkyOne]

Tomorrow the plan is to go to Alpera from Almansa. Any suggestions on how to get there (and back) off the Camino?

Glad you've made it. And walking all the way?

After Almansa you'll cross the main road and walk a short stretch with it on your left side. Soon after first village the Camino veers to the right and slightly uphill to the left of that markable mountain you've seen today coming to Almansa. I've seen at least hundred rabbits from Almansa to Alpera so try to walk silently and you'll have a lot of fun. After reaching the highest point Camino veers right and you'll have railroad to your left. An hour or so later there's an overpass and soon you'll get to two or three white houses. I remember the sign in front of the one on the righthand side that offered drinks so you could make a short stop there. Not far along the dirt path you'll get to a sign (see attached photos) that will show you the turn off to Alpera. And that's it.

Go to the Ayuntamiento for keys and the albergue looks like in the photo. The street that comes from the right is the street you will come from Ayto.

Next day ask for direction to train station. It's straight and shortly after train station you'll intersect with Camino and that's the point where you turn right. It's a wide AG track. Very easy to navigate.

 

[KinkyOne]

I'm attaching photos of Higueruela albergue so you can decide whether stay there (free) or splurge on a pension

 

[pilgr]

I'm attaching photos of Higueruela albergue so you can decide whether stay there (free) or splurge on a pension

Thanks Kinky! At Alpera train station, do you cross the tracks and into the campo until you come across the Camino?

 

[KinkyOne]

Thanks Kinky! At Alpera train station, do you cross the tracks and into the campo until you come across the Camino?

Exactly, just keep straight on.

 

[pilgr]

Glad you've made it. And walking all the way?

After Almansa you'll cross the main road and walk a short stretch with it on your left side. Soon after first village the Camino veers to the right and slightly uphill to the left of that markable mountain you've seen today coming to Almansa. I've seen at least hundred rabbits from Almansa to Alpera so try to walk silently and you'll have a lot of fun. After reaching the highest point Camino veers right and you'll have railroad to your left. An hour or so later there's an overpass and soon you'll get to two or three white houses. I remember the sign in front of the one on the righthand side that offered drinks so you could make a short stop there. Not far along the dirt path you'll get to a sign (see attached photos) that will show you the turn off to Alpera. And that's it.

Go to the Ayuntamiento for keys and the albergue looks like in the photo. The street that comes from the right is the street you will come from Ayto.

Next day ask for direction to train station. It's straight and shortly after train station you'll intersect with Camino and that's the point where you turn right. It's a wide AG track. Very easy to navigate.

Yes, I walked all the way. I am exhausted again! The backs of my legs got fried eg sunburned. I was thinking how great I wasnt walking into the sun, not thinking maybe other parts of my body could have a problem. I hope I have the energy to tackle it mañana!

 

[pilgr]

Thanks Kinky! At Alpera train station, do you cross the tracks and into the campo until you come across the Camino?

Not to be difficult, but why not enter the town the same way?

 

[KinkyOne]

Yes, I walked all the way. I am exhausted again! The backs of my legs got fried eg sunburned. I was thinking how great I wasnt walking into the sun, not thinking maybe other parts of my body could have a problem. I hope I have the energy to tackle it mañana!

Poco a poco, Matt
You have first water refill after 5kms, 1,5km later there's a picnic place with trees at Ermita San Anton, approx.13kms later is the house where you could possibly buy some drinks (already mentioned in one of previous posts) and after that it's just an hour to Alpera.

You'll do fine. You started easy and already getting the stamina so you won't have problems with stages slightly over 20kms.

 

[peregrina2000]

Congrats, pilgr! Are you in the convent tonight?

Tomorrow the plan is to go to Alpera from Almansa. Any suggestions on how to get there (and back) off the Camino?

Here's what I wrote in 2013 about getting to Alpera and from Alpera back to the Camino.

Day 7: Almansa-Alpera (25) – requires detour onto Lana. Great walk, through the Sierra del Mugrón, where you see several bunkers from the Spanish Civil War and enjoy some great vistas. After El Carrascal (well-identified ranch), there is a clearly marked intersection – straight for Higueruela, R to Alpera. We opted to break the Almansa-Higueruela stage (42-45?) into two and it was a very good decision, and a very pleasant walk. Alpera has some interesting 8,000 year old cave paintings and we got a ride in a town jeep up to see them. The town has just opened an albergue (in fact, we were the first users), two rooms, two beds each, new bathroom, sitting room. Use of the kitchen downstairs and the patio outside, very nice. Rooms also available at El Cazador (on edge of town) and in the in-town Pension Stop where we ate a very good dinner.

Day 8: Alpera-Higueruela (25). We returned to the Camino the way we came, that is, backtracking 4 kms to the Carrascal ranch. The other alternative is to take an all-asphalt on-the-side-of-the-highway walk for 21 kms. Well worth it because we avoided at least 13 kms of asphalt. Very pleasant walk, BRIGHT green fields, just stunning. Albergue in the old Ayuntamiento, not well-maintained. 3 beds. I opted for the Posada Higueruela (Tel: 967 285 013), where a room cost 20 euros. Had a decent meal there for 10. I later learned that the floor above the albergue is a music school at night, and my two friends who stayed there said the music blared till well after midnight.

Loved Pensión Stop for a meal, highly recommended. People in Alpera were very very nice. I left my hat in the jeep that took us up to see the cave paintings, and found it on my bed in the albergue a few hours later.

Higueruela has one of those 20 € pensiones you are looking for! It was very nice, but the only problem was I couldn't get out in the morning! Good thing one of my French friends came looking for me, so I could drop the magnetic card down to the street from my balcony and they could open the door from the outside. I had assumed that with a magnetic card I could get out of the hotel as well into it. Unless I missed something, that was not the case, so if you stay there and are planning to leave early, make sure you check up on that little detail.

Seems like you are getting into your camino stride! Buen camino, Laurie

 

[KinkyOne]

Day 8: Alpera-Higueruela (25). We returned to the Camino the way we came, that is, backtracking 4 kms to the Carrascal ranch. The other alternative is to take an all-asphalt on-the-side-of-the-highway walk for 21 kms. Well worth it because we avoided at least 13 kms of asphalt.

Matt, just a heads up not to mix any of the options Laurie mentioned with what I wrote/suggested. Mine is in the middle of the two mentioned above as you leave Alpera. The one to the left would be the one you came to the village and the all-tarmac one would be completely to the right on the main road between the villages.
I'm sure my option is the shortest one but decision is all yours

 

[pilgr]

Congrats, pilgr! Are you in the convent tonight?


Here's what I wrote in 2013 about getting to Alpera and from Alpera back to the Camino.

Day 7: Almansa-Alpera (25) – requires detour onto Lana. Great walk, through the Sierra del Mugrón, where you see several bunkers from the Spanish Civil War and enjoy some great vistas. After El Carrascal (well-identified ranch), there is a clearly marked intersection – straight for Higueruela, R to Alpera. We opted to break the Almansa-Higueruela stage (42-45?) into two and it was a very good decision, and a very pleasant walk. Alpera has some interesting 8,000 year old cave paintings and we got a ride in a town jeep up to see them. The town has just opened an albergue (in fact, we were the first users), two rooms, two beds each, new bathroom, sitting room. Use of the kitchen downstairs and the patio outside, very nice. Rooms also available at El Cazador (on edge of town) and in the in-town Pension Stop where we ate a very good dinner.

Day 8: Alpera-Higueruela (25). We returned to the Camino the way we came, that is, backtracking 4 kms to the Carrascal ranch. The other alternative is to take an all-asphalt on-the-side-of-the-highway walk for 21 kms. Well worth it because we avoided at least 13 kms of asphalt. Very pleasant walk, BRIGHT green fields, just stunning. Albergue in the old Ayuntamiento, not well-maintained. 3 beds. I opted for the Posada Higueruela (Tel: 967 285 013), where a room cost 20 euros. Had a decent meal there for 10. I later learned that the floor above the albergue is a music school at night, and my two friends who stayed there said the music blared till well after midnight.

Loved Pensión Stop for a meal, highly recommended. People in Alpera were very very nice. I left my hat in the jeep that took us up to see the cave paintings, and found it on my bed in the albergue a few hours later.

Higueruela has one of those 20 € pensiones you are looking for! It was very nice, but the only problem was I couldn't get out in the morning! Good thing one of my French friends came looking for me, so I could drop the magnetic card down to the street from my balcony and they could open the door from the outside. I had assumed that with a magnetic card I could get out of the hotel as well into it. Unless I missed something, that was not the case, so if you stay there and are planning to leave early, make sure you check up on that little detail.

Seems like you are getting into your camino stride! Buen camino, Laurie

@pelegrina2000

I decided against the convent because of the Germans and what you said about two rooms, the woman getting one of them. Well, the woman in our case is the only one who speaks English or Spanish. I would be in with the two guys who only speak German (and I don't). There is an awkward thing going on with them. So I didnt want to push it. I figure if they were happy with the Moix albergue, I would defer to them on the convent.

 

[pilgr]

Kinky

There seems to be a little trail that goes from the train station to the Camino. I think that is what you were hinting at.

 

[KinkyOne]

Kinky

There seems to be a little trail that goes from the train station to the Camino. I think that is what you were hinting at.

It's not a little trail, it's a 3-4 meters wide AG dirt track.
If you step out of the Alpera church turn right and walk straight for 3km to train station. Cross the rails, turn right and immediately left (you really don't have any other option if you want to walk away from the rails) and walk straight to first T-junction, turn right and you'll be on Camino.
https://www.google.si/maps/dir/Plaz...1!2m2!1d-1.2306537!2d38.9599315!1m0!3e2?hl=sl

 

[alexwalker]

I am so impressed, both with @pilgr and with the assistance you get from forum friends. Will not hijack this thread, but I got a few guidebooks in the mail today from CSJ, including the Sureste, and it is really tempting. But it seems like a lonely camino, and I am (soon) 63... Well fit though: 30 kms/day is perfectly doable. Maybe I should try to find a companion for that walk?

I actually walked the whole 1st day out of Alicante last year in April (and back) and it was surprisingly well marked. Does that apply for the rest of your/my walk?

Matt, could you elaborate on loneliness (being all on your own) vs. peaceful walk? What's your daily mood? Are the markings satisfactory? Is it easy to find lodging, or difficult? I know enough Spanish to get along, though not fluent.

IMHO you are brave to take on this all by yourself! Buen Camino!

Edit: I want you to know, Matt, that you are not alone: I have you in my thoughts, and I hope that it may comfort you in your evenings, on your brave endevaour: I hope to walk in your footsteps!

 

[pilgr]

I am so impressed, both with @pilgr and with the assistance you get from forum friends. Will not hijack this thread, but I got a few guidebooks in the mail today from CSJ, including the Sureste, and it is really tempting. But it seems like a lonely camino, and I am (soon) 63... Well fit though: 30 kms/day is perfectly doable. Maybe I should try to find a companion for that walk?

I actually walked the whole 1st day out of Alicante last year in April (and back) and it was surprisingly well marked. Does that apply for the rest of your/my walk?

Matt, could you elaborate on loneliness (being all on your own) vs. peaceful walk? What's your daily mood? Are the markings satisfactory? Is it easy to find lodging, or difficult? I know enough Spanish to get along, though not fluent.

IMHO you are brave to take on this all by yourself! Buen Camino!

Edit: I want you to know, Matt, that you are not alone: I have you in my thoughts, and I hope that it may comfort you in your evenings, on your brave endevaour: I hope to walk in your footsteps!

@alexwalker
Thank you for your well wishes and interest in the blog!
The first part of the Levante for me so far, the waymarking has been great. The exception has been getting through the industrial section of Valencia and some of the towns. I am guessing that part of the reason why the towns are challenging is there is a lot of activity happening with cars/trucks parked in front of signs, competing stimulus at the time looking for signs, limited options where to put signs, and efforts to remove signs. As such, the Camino kml tracks have been an invaluable backup asset for me. I have these on my smartphone. Plus Jean Luc at the Amigos de Levante has me reporting any issues I come upon as to waymarking which gives me a sense of agency and empathy. When I showed up in Valencia to get my credentiales at the Amigoes office, I was amazed how big of a group of volunteers there were! I can definitely extrapolate from having seen the many volunteers and the quality of signage along the way, that the Camino de Levante is well tended after!

Not to speak for @KinkyOne but I have heard him state that he was very positive about the Surestre markings.

As to "lonliness", I would say that it is definitely an individual situation. Personally, I tend towards being fine on my own and preferring my own company. However, I do love having the option to have that shared experience with other peregrinos. My biggest fear on this Camino has been no peregrinos. KinkyOne, Peregrina2000 and others have been great for me on this blog, checking in everyday via my smartphone. Also, I get a lot of my social needs met from interacting with the Spaniards along the way. I would say the largest part of what I love about walking the Camino is what I experience as to the Spanish cultural tendancy to reach and connect. I have come across one group of German peregrinos who I see on and off. Only one of the three speaks English or Spanish. Sadly, I am not able to communicate very well with the other two.

Seasonally, this is Camino time on the Levante. I would argue March and April is the best time of year to do this walk, as it allows you to follow Spring northward while avoiding the extremes of Summer and Winter. So I hope to come across other peregrinos!

As to lodging, I would say that it would probably be wise to carry a light sleeping bag to give you access to the albergues along the way. I probably should have something more substantial than my kevlar emergency bag. I have been relying on the hostels/pensions. It would be wise to research that part of it beforehand and develop your own resource guide (which I didn't do), while pulling from those on this blog and other resources like the Amigos website.

I hope this helps!

 

[alexwalker]

This helps a lot: It seems doable now for me. But I assume it will be a walk mostly in solitude and inner reflections... ;-) ? Anyway; I wish you a good night's sleep where you are, and a pleasant walk tomorrow!

 

[alexwalker]

You will be in my thoughts. (!) I wish you all the best on your brave walk! I hope to follow in your footsteps on this way!

 

[alexwalker]

Hope you are well: Where are you tonight?

I have spent much of the day reading the Sureste guide from CSJ, as well as studying places on Google Earth. This is doable for me. Maybe start beginning of Sept.? Walking Sept- into early Oct.?

I have found the website of the Amigos del Camino in Alicante to be very informative: http://www.encaminodesdealicante.org/

I know Alicante from earlier, so no problem navigating there. They even have an albergue (5 Euros) right on the start of the Camino Sureste!

Also, they have published a long list of accomodations on the Sureste, complete with phone nos etc. I give the link here:

http://www.encaminodesdealicante.or...ues/albergues-del-camino-del-sureste-2014.pdf

But I am sure you already have this information...

Will definitely follow your way!

 

[pilgr]

Hope you are well: Where are you tonight?

I have spent much of the day reading the Sureste guide from CSJ, as well as studying places on Google Earth. This is doable for me. Maybe start beginning of Sept.? Walking Sept- into early Oct.?

I have found the website of the Amigos del Camino in Alicante to be very informative: http://www.encaminodesdealicante.org/

I know Alicante from earlier, so no problem navigating there. They even have an albergue (5 Euros) right on the start of the Camino Sureste!

Also, they have published a long list of accomodations on the Sureste, complete with phone nos etc. I give the link here:

http://www.encaminodesdealicante.or...ues/albergues-del-camino-del-sureste-2014.pdf

But I am sure you already have this information...

Will definitely follow your way!

Thanks for the info!

I am in Higueluera tonite. The heat we are experiencing will abruptly turn to cold and sleet with 168mm on Monday.

I am excited that you are inspired to do the Suestre! Duckpond is starting it April 1. You might communicate with him as he has already put some research into it.

 

[alexwalker]

I am excited that you are inspired to do the Suestre! Duckpond is starting it April 1. You might communicate with him as he has already put some research into it.

It has been on my list for some time, but after today's study and your remarks here, it is definitely on my list. I have two options: Going in late Aug/early Sept this year or March/April next year.

 

[alexwalker]

 

[KinkyOne]

Hope you are well: Where are you tonight?

I have spent much of the day reading the Sureste guide from CSJ, as well as studying places on Google Earth. This is doable for me. Maybe start beginning of Sept.? Walking Sept- into early Oct.?

I have found the website of the Amigos del Camino in Alicante to be very informative: http://www.encaminodesdealicante.org/

I know Alicante from earlier, so no problem navigating there. They even have an albergue (5 Euros) right on the start of the Camino Sureste!

Also, they have published a long list of accomodations on the Sureste, complete with phone nos etc. I give the link here:

http://www.encaminodesdealicante.or...ues/albergues-del-camino-del-sureste-2014.pdf

But I am sure you already have this information...

Will definitely follow your way!

Ahm, that's a thread on Levante...
Maybe you should post your observations in Sureste subforum?
I'm not a admin but...

 

[JLWV]

Hola pilgr, how and where are you?
Yesterday was very good day but since midnight we get 46 mm of rain in Valencia.
As the bad weather comes from the east I hope you have it better.
After Chinchilla you have several days in quite flat way.
Buen camino.

 

[pilgr]

Hola pilgr, how and where are you?
Yesterday was very good day but since midnight we get 46 mm of rain in Valencia.
As the bad weather comes from the east I hope you have it better.
After Chinchilla you have several days in quite flat way.
Buen camino.

I am in Albacete where it is snowing! This goes well for my sunburn!

 

[KinkyOne]

I am in Albacete where it is snowing! This goes well for my sunburn!

Whaaat? Snowing? And two days ago you got sunburns

Will you take a rest day or continue tomorrow?
It's approx.40kms to La Roda but you can cut it in half sleeping in La Gineta. There's a changing room (with wash basins, showers and toilets) in polideportivo. Otherwise very scarce lodging around La Gineta to my knowledge. Maybe @JLWV would know more.

 

[JLWV]

No, I personaly do not know other accommodation in La Gineta, and the changing room in the polideportivo may be very cold if it is snowing.
The web of the Amigos gives following address:
Albergue Municipal: C/ Fuensanta SN, junto al cuartel de la Guardia Civil. Llamad al Ayuntamiento con antelación, sobre todo si vais a llegar en fin de semana, o a la Policía Local 687 578 013.
but I don´t know if it is something new or the polideportivo. You can call to check before.
I remenber the way to la Roda to have nothing, no trees, to protect you against sun, rain, or wind!
May be best option is resting one day in a warm hostal.

 

[peregrina2000]

I remember well walking into La Gineta on a Sunday. We had called the ayuntamiento a couple of days early to let them know that three pilgrims would be arriving. When we got there, we could find nothing, no one, not in the police station, no one in a bar could help, no one in the polideportivo could help. We had been walking since Chinchilla, so we already had 37 km. What to do? This was a big breakthrough day for me -- I agreed to hop on the train and ride for 5 minutes or so to cover the 20 km to La Roda. There, we went straight to a nice pensión, Hostal Molina, even though I know some people wax enthusiastically about the albergue in the bull ring.

So in a pinch, pilgr, you could hop on a train. In the end, I was happy we did it, because it gave us an "extra day", and my French buddies agreed to take a rest day in Toledo, which was absolutely wonderful!

Hope you are surviving the snow and the sleet and whatever else the weather gods throw your way.

 

[Brandy]

Hola
The website of the Camino de Levante still lists a poliderportivo accomodation in LaGineta.
In many other websites they conferm that there is nothing in La Gineta.

Buen Camino

Brandy

 

[Brandy]

Hola Pilgr
My day was very wet and cold. How was yours ?
Buen Camino
Brandy

 

[pilgr]

I remember well walking into La Gineta on a Sunday. We had called the ayuntamiento a couple of days early to let them know that three pilgrims would be arriving. When we got there, we could find nothing, no one, not in the police station, no one in a bar could help, no one in the polideportivo could help. We had been walking since Chinchilla, so we already had 37 km. What to do? This was a big breakthrough day for me -- I agreed to hop on the train and ride for 5 minutes or so to cover the 20 km to La Roda. There, we went straight to a nice pensión, Hostal Molina, even though I know some people wax enthusiastically about the albergue in the bull ring.

So in a pinch, pilgr, you could hop on a train. In the end, I was happy we did it, because it gave us an "extra day", and my French buddies agreed to take a rest day in Toledo, which was absolutely wonderful!

Hope you are surviving the snow and the sleet and whatever else the weather gods throw your way.

Since I am of the 20k stock varietal and not of the 40k varietal like you and Brandy, my plan is to walk 20k to La Genta and return by bus to Albacete. Then the next morning, return to La Genta to walk the remaining 20k to La Roda

Hola Pilgr
My day was very wet and cold. How was yours ?
Buen Camino
Brandy

My day was dry and comfortable in Albacete. I didn't walk in the storm. I did that stuff on the La Plata and ended up getting blisters.
Today, I ate at an authentic Mexican restaurant too!

 

[pilgr]

@Brandy In Higueruela, I recommend having lunch at La Posada restaurant. Exceptional!

 

[peregrina2000]

Since I am of the 20k stock varietal and not of the 40k varietal like you and Brandy, my plan is to walk 20k to La Genta and return by bus to Albacete. Then the next morning, return to La Genta to walk the remaining 20k to La Roda

My day was dry and comfortable in Albacete. I didn't walk in the storm. I did that stuff on the La Plata and ended up getting blisters.
Today, I ate at an authentic Mexican restaurant too!

Sounds like a plan, that also means you will have walked 20 km more than I did by the time you get to Santiago, since I took the train to La Roda from La Gineta. I think that makes you a more authentic pilgrim than me anyway.

How did you spend your day in Albacete, pilgr? Mexican food on a cold wet day sounds like a good start! I remember reading that Albacete was the knife capital of Spain, but I'm not sure what kind of leisure activities that fact might produce.

So nice of you and Brandy to check in and feed our Levante addiction.

 

[pilgr]

25mph winds and wet today!

 

[KinkyOne]

Good decision to return to Albacete and back the next day. I remember polideportivo in La Gineta was a bit cold even in the summer but that was OK with me because of the heat during the day.

Ultreia!

 

[gracethepilgrim]

Oh, I’m having so much fun keeping up with @pilgr and @Brandy in prep for my Levante in 10 weeks. My mini-guide is filling up nicely. Thanks to all the other Levante veterans (kinky and Laurie etc) too. super !!

 

[pilgr]

okay guys, I am in La Roda. See pic. What are accomodation options for Minaya or Los Pinas?

 

[JLWV]

For Minaya you have:
- Acogida en el Polideportivo: Calle Calvario, 52. Tel.: 615 680 385 Jesús Villodre
- Hostal Antolín: Ctra. N-301, Km 195.5. Tel.: 967 450 042
and in Casas de los Pinos:
- Hotel Restaurante Bodega La Venta en la Ctra N-301, Km 188
- Casas rurales: Residencial Candelaria y Rincón Rural extramuros
I stayed in Hostal Antolín, at the end of the village, just in front of the beginning of next trip.

 

[KinkyOne]

okay guys, I am in La Roda. See pic. What are accomodation options for Minaya or Los Pinas?

Wow, torero Matt

I didn't stay in Minaya and have no experience of accommodation there but I've rested at Hostal Antolin. It's at the end of the village by the main road and after crossing it be alert because Levante and Sureste goes separate ways.

 

[sulu]

okay guys, I am in La Roda. See pic. What are accomodation options for Minaya or Los Pinas?

The acogida in the sports hall in Mimnaya is quite good, there are bunks and a table and chairs. You share it with the equipment for childrens sports afternoon but they finish at about 6pm, though the sports hall is used later they don't use the little room.

 

[pilgr]

The acogida in the sports hall in Mimnaya is quite good, there are bunks and a table and chairs. You share it with the equipment for childrens sports afternoon but they finish at about 6pm, though the sports hall is used later they don't use the little room.

Thanks!
Are sheets and blankets included?

 

[AlanSykes]

@Brandy In Higueruela, I recommend having lunch at La Posada restaurant. Exceptional!

In San Clemente I strongly recommend the restaurant Torre del Reloj, heaving with locals when I was there, next to the tourist office where you pick up the albergue key and opposite the church of Santiago Apóstol, which has some fine renaissance sculptures, including one of Santiago on a fierce horse which is doing most of the Matamoros as Santiago has lost his sword.

And when you get to Las Pedroñeras, it would be wise to have garlic soup, as Las P is the Spanish capital of garlic (so, arguably, world garlic capital).

 

[pilgr]

In San Clemente I strongly recommend the restaurant Torre del Reloj, heaving with locals when I was there, next to the tourist office where you pick up the albergue key and opposite the church of Santiago Apóstol, which has some fine renaissance sculptures, including one of Santiago on a fierce horse which is doing most of the Matamoros as Santiago has lost his sword.

And when you get to Las Pedroñeras, it would be wise to have garlic soup, as Las P is the Spanish capital of garlic (so, arguably, world garlic capital).

"heaving with locals" at the restaurant? That doesn't sound like a good thing!

 

[gracethepilgrim]

At least it’s not ‘locals heaving’

 

[pilgr]

In San Clemnite

 

[pilgr]

In San Clemente I strongly recommend the restaurant Torre del Reloj, heaving with locals when I was there, next to the tourist office where you pick up the albergue key and opposite the church of Santiago Apóstol, which has some fine renaissance sculptures, including one of Santiago on a fierce horse which is doing most of the Matamoros as Santiago has lost his sword.

And when you get to Las Pedroñeras, it would be wise to have garlic soup, as Las P is the Spanish capital of garlic (so, arguably, world garlic capital).

After walking into San Clemente, I Googled "Torre del Reloj restaurant" and NOTHING came up. So I settled for Milan...ooh boy. Only after committing to stay there and eating "Menu del dia" (some of the food), I Googled Tripadvisor to confirm no chinches problems there after getting the room did I see "La Posada del Reloj" as an option in town!!! Too bad for me, hey...?

 

[KinkyOne]

After walking into San Clemente, I Googled "Torre del Reloj restaurant" and NOTHING came up. So I settled for Milan...ooh boy. Only after committing to stay there and eating "Menu del dia" (some of the food), I Googled Tripadvisor to confirm no chinches problems there after getting the room did I see "La Posada del Reloj" as an option in town!!! Too bad for me, hey...?

So you didn't stay in Minaya and walk all the way to San Clemente?
I've found that stretch quite long (same as Gotarrendura - Arevalo) but nice. I have to add that the temps were around 45C on that day
Albergue in San Clemente is free of charge and only for three persons in two rooms. Nice bar/restaurante around the corner too.
Watch out tomorrow a few kilometers after San Clemente. You'll see two white houses about 30mts slightly uphill to your left. You have to take left turn here and from there on no tricky spots to Las Pedroneras. No albergue in "garlic capitol" but quite nice private rooms very close to the church and main Plaza. I think you have the address and telephone number in my notes that I've sent you. If not, let me know in case you want to stay there.

 

[pilgr]

So you didn't stay in Minaya and walk all the way to San Clemente?
I've found that stretch quite long (same as Gotarrendura - Arevalo) but nice. I have to add that the temps were around 45C on that day
Albergue in San Clemente is free of charge and only for three persons in two rooms. Nice bar/restaurante around the corner too.
Watch out tomorrow a few kilometers after San Clemente. You'll see two white houses about 30mts slightly uphill to your left. You have to take left turn here and from there on no tricky spots to Las Pedroneras. No albergue in "garlic capitol" but quite nice private rooms very close to the church and main Plaza. I think you have the address and telephone number in my notes that I've sent you. If not, let me know in case you want to stay there.

@KinkyOne
yes, please send name of hostel you recommend.

Thanks for the direction tip leaving town!

I politely backed my way out of Milan Hostal dump I stupidly parked myself and booked myself into the much better Milan. Apparently it is brother and sister separate owners dealio, couldn't come up with unique names

 

[gracethepilgrim]

@pilgr, can you give the ‘exact’ names of the two ‘Milan’ places with the brother/sister owners. I’d hate to make the same mistake and pick the worst one.

Have you seen the Albergue in San Clemente?

 

[pilgr]

@pilgr, can you give the ‘exact’ names of the two ‘Milan’ places with the brother/sister owners. I’d hate to make the same mistake and pick the worst one.

You

Have you seen the Albergue in San Clemente?

You don't want "Milan li" which is the first restaurant and hostal you come to on the camino entering San Clemente on Calle Arrabal. The one you MAYBE want is "Hotel Restaurant Milan" squeezed between Calle Molina and Calle Bosteros. To complicate it further, there are two or three Hotel Milans (new and old) squeezed together at this location. (So techinically, there are four Milans in San Clemente: li, 1, 2, and 3.) I chose an old hotel 22€ price v 30€ for a new room. Be sure you look at the room first! They were going to put me on the first floor above the bar. I asked, and they put me on the top floor away from the bar. There is still a lot of noise I hear.

All that said, you should probably avoid ALL hotels named Milan in San Clemente as I don't trust a business that doesn't have the good sense to differentiate itself better

 

[KinkyOne]

@KinkyOne
yes, please send name of hostel you recommend.

Thanks for the direction tip leaving town!

I politely backed my way out of Milan Hostal dump I stupidly parked myself and booked myself into the much better Milan. Apparently it is brother and sister separate owners dealio, couldn't come up with unique names

Hope it's not too late for the address:
Casa Mauricio
Calle Los Molinos
Tlf: 610 878 574


EDIT: photos attached

 

[KinkyOne]

@pilgr, can you give the ‘exact’ names of the two ‘Milan’ places with the brother/sister owners. I’d hate to make the same mistake and pick the worst one.

Have you seen the Albergue in San Clemente?

Albergue in San Clemente photos attached. Sorry for poor quality because they were taken with phone.

 

[pilgr]

Hope it's not too late for the address:
Casa Mauricio
Calle Los Molinos
Tlf: 610 878 574

Thanks for sending. I ended up staying another day in San Clemente, waiting for this

EDIT: photos attached

 

[JLWV]

When I passed in San Clemente two years ago, the two beds were in front room, and the mattress on the floor in the rear one, with also a large carton-board for a fourth pilgrim. It seems more spacious now.
This was the first albergue on my way with a first-aid kit.
On Monday the tourist office was closed and I collected the key at the town-hall.

 

[pilgr]

Hope it's not too late for the address:
Casa Mauricio
Calle Los Molinos
Tlf: 610 878 574

Many thanks Kinky on this place!


EDIT: photos attached

 

[JLWV]

Can you confirm: Casa Muricio is in San Clemente?

 

[pilgr]

Can you confirm: Casa Muricio is in San Clemente?

I am in Las Pedroñeras and staying at Casa Muricio for 20€. Cute place!

I can't speak to a Casa Muricio in San Clemente.

 

[JLWV]

OK, Las Pedroñeras.

 

[KinkyOne]

I am in Las Pedroñeras and staying at Casa Muricio for 20€. Cute place!

I can't speak to a Casa Muricio in San Clemente.

Nice you've found it.

@JLWV : as Matt already posted Casa Mauricio is in Las Pedroneras, very close to the church.

 

[Brandy]

Hola
Maybe tomorrow we can have a cerveza togheter if you tell me where you stop for the night. For my plan the stop would be Mota del Cuervo, bul I'm flexible.
Take care.

Brandy

 

[pilgr]

Hola
Maybe tomorrow we can have a cerveza togheter if you tell me where you stop for the night. For my plan the stop would be Mota del Cuervo, bul I'm flexible.
Take care.



Brandy

Hostal Rural Plaza

 

[Brandy]

Hostal Rural Plaza

Where is it ?

Brandy

 

[pilgr]

Where is it ?

Brandy

in Mota 967 180 110

 

[pilgr]

on Calle Cercada Alta, between calles Alanzo Cano and San Sebastain

 

[KinkyOne]

Where is it ?

Brandy

Roughly you have two options. When you come to Mota the Camino crosses N-301/N-402 (Calle Camino Real Alto):
A: you can turn right on mentioned road and follow it all the way to La Despensa supermercado on your left. Turn left through the parking lot after the shop and you'll be right in front of the Hostal,
B: continue straight over the mentioned road to Plaza Mayor, turn immediately right, go past Correos to Plaza Tercia (slight right curve) and take first left street (kind of straight regarding general direction you are coming from) and you'll be on the street with Hostal few meters to your right. From Plaza Mayor that's three blocks: https://www.google.si/maps/dir/39.5...6b844!2m2!1d-2.8699087!2d39.5025275!3e2?hl=sl.

I've found it like in option B, but option A might be a lot easier to navigate.

 

[pilgr]

Roughly you have two options. When you come to Mota the Camino crosses N-301/N-402 (Calle Camino Real Alto):
A: you can turn right on mentioned road and follow it all the way to La Despensa supermercado on your left. Turn left through the parking lot after the shop and you'll be right in front of the Hostal,
B: continue straight over the mentioned road to Plaza Mayor, turn immediately right, go past Correos to Plaza Tercia (slight right curve) and take first left street (kind of straight regarding general direction you are coming from) and you'll be on the street with Hostal few meters to your right. From Plaza Mayor that's three blocks: https://www.google.si/maps/dir/39.5001262,-2.8692944/Hostal+Rural+Plaza**,+Calle+Cercado+Alta,+4,+16630+Mota+del+Cuervo,+Cuenca,+Španija/@39.501418,-2.8714327,583m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!4m8!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0xd684465794e00b5:0x78a113240206b844!2m2!1d-2.8699087!2d39.5025275!3e2?hl=sl.

I've found it like in option B, but option A might be a lot easier to navigate.

Full service Kinky! i need to learn how to do that

 

[KinkyOne]

Full service Kinky! i need to learn how to do that

Hahahaha, you've found it already without my help

 

[Brandy]

Ok

in Mota 967 180 110

Ok in Mota, thats all I need.
I'll see tomorrow if they have room for me too. I will be there by 6 pm.

Cheers
Brandy

 

[george.g]

Hi Brandy and pilgr
In 2014 when I was in El Toboso, the sisters "Monjas Trinitarias" provided both an evening meal and accomodation in the convento (can't remember cost)
Entrance to the convent is through the large brown double door on Calle Padre Juan No2.
Regards
George

 

[Brandy]

Hola Pilgr I'm in room 115.
When do you want to meet downstairs?

Brandy

 

[KinkyOne]

Hola Pilgr I'm in room 115.
When do you want to meet downstairs?

Brandy

Don't forget to post a photo of you guys having a cerveza

 

[pilgr]

Joseph and Matt in Mota del Cuervo

 

[gracethepilgrim]

Great that you’ve been able to meet up.
You two are an inspiration to me. Countdown 9 weeks now.
It looks like you are comparing notes

 

[peregrina2000]

Joseph and Matt in Mota del Cuervo

That's spectacular!!! So happy to see you both. I've been offline for several days, and was wondering when the two of you would coincide.

 

[pilgr]

That's spectacular!!! So happy to see you both. I've been offline for several days, and was wondering when the two of you would coincide.

Thank you for your support!!!

 

[KinkyOne]

Joseph and Matt in Mota del Cuervo

I'm envious

 

[pilgr]

Any suggestions for accomodations before Toledo, so I don't have to do a 40k day?

Thanks!

 

[peregrina2000]

Ah, pilgr, thank you for allowing me to prove to myself that my aging memory sometimes is in working order. I had a vague memory that @filly had found a place, and with a little searching I found it! Looks like this thread offers a couple of possibilities. Scroll down to posts with numbers in the 30s and 40s and I think you'll find what you are looking for. There are actually a couple of possibilities, at least there were back when this thread was written. Good luck with this, let us know what you decide to do! Buen camino, Laurie

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...on-27-may-2014-anyone-else.25699/#post-218423

 

[pilgr]

Ah, pilgr, thank you for allowing me to prove to myself that my aging memory sometimes is in working order. I had a vague memory that @filly had found a place, and with a little searching I found it! Looks like this thread offers a couple of possibilities. Scroll down to posts with numbers in the 30s and 40s and I think you'll find what you are looking for. There are actually a couple of possibilities, at least there were back when this thread was written. Good luck with this, let us know what you decide to do! Buen camino, Laurie

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...on-27-may-2014-anyone-else.25699/#post-218423

Thanks for sending this thread. I find it hillarious that 3 years ago, @filly said to be sure to avoid the first Hostal Milan when entering San Clemente! I can vouch that there has been absolutely no upgrades since then

After reading the thread, the Casa Rural Ermita de la Rosa looks like it is way out in the sticks according to Google Maps. While there may be an alberģe type dealio in Almonacid, I am not set up for providing my own bedding (also, I am too cheap to spend 81€ on a spa several km off the route). The Amigos Valencia mention Casa Isidora on Calle de Palma #6 (no other contact info) in Burguillos de Toledo. So if I can't score a place there, I may just take the bus to Toledo (then return the next day by bus).

 

[gracethepilgrim]

Good idea pilgr. We’re waiting to see what you come up with
By the way, I have the following albergue in my notes but no reference as to where I read it or the date It probably won’t suit if you don’t have a sleeping bag.

Almonacid de Toledo's Albergue is in the changing rooms of the municipal swimming pool, 4 loos, 6 showers w hot water, VERY basic Free

 

[george.g]

Hi pilgr,
Perhaps your route could be Tembleque, Mora, Toledo, in 2014 I went that route and spent the night at Hosta Agripano in Mora, which left about 30 Kim's into Toledo.
Regards
George