Querablo to Nurio

11 JUNE 2023

I felt a little vulnerable this morning. I thought I'd see some of my fellow trekkers at breakfast today - however they had already left. I packed and set off. Once on the route, I felt better.

The sun was shining and the scenery was spectacular. I decided to take it slow and steady along the old pilgrim route to Nuria enjoying each section and facing whatever the situation was around accommodation and weather conditions once I got to the destination.

The route was an old path cut into the valley side with spring water fountains and overhanging rock shelters - there are memories of the route taken by past pilgrims making their way up to the church at Nuria on foot or horse back. This mountains sanctuary became known when Saint Gil, Benedictine abbot arrived in Nuria towards the year 700 - he made the image of the Virgin Mary, used the bell to summon the shepherds, the cross to preach them the gospel and the pot to share the food.

I decided to stay in the hotel within the sanctuary as the hostel was closed. This enabled me to spend time, savouring the peaceful environment around the lake, the sanctuary building and within the hotel itself. I joined fellow hikers and visitors for a wonderful buffet dinner in the evening. All is well.