May 22, 2023
Plasencia – Aldeanueva del Camino 37km
Aldeanueva de Camino – Banos de Montemayor 17.5km
Banos de Montemayor – Fuenterroble de Salvatierra 43.4km
21 – 23 May 2023
Chilly mourning in Plascenia!
As we journey from Plasencia to Aldeanueva del Camino via the Via verde (Greenway), we’re transported back in time to the railway past. The route is lined with remnants from the old railway line, including signal lights, signs, switches, and three beautifully restored stations.
The beginning round of many table football games to come. Greg and I fight it out for championship. This will not be our last game!!!
After taking in the sights across the countryside along the way, we finally reach the charming village of Aldeanueva del Camino, where we decide to spend the night. Unfortunately, being Sunday, all the shops are closed. However, we’re pleasantly surprised to find a food machine at the albergue that offered yummy beef and potato casserole. My mum quickly empties my pockets of small change to purchase some and heats it up in a pot.
But that’s not the only exciting discovery we make from the food machine – there’s also a bucket of fairy floss!
For dinner, we find the only open cafe at 8pm, and it’s worth the wait. Although Google Translate offers a range of pork options, we skip past pork tears and pork secrets and opt for warm garlic soup, chicken, and flan. Our bellies full, we head back to the albergue and ready for the adventures that await us on the next leg of our journey.
From Aldeanueva del Camino to Banos Montemayor, we set off early in the morning to reach the Spa town. The rail trail proved to be a great path with a gradual incline, unlike the steep ascents and descents in the distance. Upon arriving at Banos de Montmayor, we quickly unloaded our panniers and headed down the steep street in search of the Roman baths.
At the thermal pool, we had to wear a mask, bathing hat, and gown. The place was filled with Spanish elderly, indicating its popularity. Following Oscar’s lead down some stairs, we showered before entering the pool, which was not as warm as expected.
For dinner, we had chrizo and cheese on crackers, followed by escalda and tuna. We retired early to bed, as the next day’s journey was all uphill.
From Banos Montemayor to Feuto, we were faced with continuous uphill climbs until we reached the rail trail again, which eased the ascent. Taylor located a cafe at the end of the trail that served a mother load of jamion.
