This was my first rest day. I had to move to a second Hostal (Hostal Rodas) for tonight as last night’s hotel was totally booked. Awesome place, clean, modern, large and comfortable. It gave me a chance to catch my breadth , reorganize my stuff as I decided that although I am walking with my large backpack to have all the benefits it offers (breathing suspension system against my back, easy loops to hold poles when I need my hands for other purposes, easier pockets to access water bottles and the waist belt that ensured the weight is properly distributed on the hips) and bought a small duffle bag in which I send ahead to the next place I will be staying at via the backpack carrying service the Spanish post office operates. It is a great system. I go online anytime before 8pm the day before I need the bag moved, give them the pick and the drop locations. I have to leave it at the reception before 8 am and they guarantee it will be at the destination by 2:30pm. So far flawless.
Spent the whole day in sandals, feet were very happy. Although it rained and I was not out much still clicked 10000 steps without realizing it. So slow photo count day. Tomorrow’s destination PUENTE LA REINA.

Food wise, I have been grazing on Pinxos, they are the Basque equivalent of tapas. Any bar/restaurant has a significant number of ready made little plates that you can point to and assemble a little meal. Although I have been to Spain on a few occasions, never to the Navarra Basque region. They have their own language so the whole area has signs in both languages and their own distinct culture and look and feel to how they are. Their cuisine is very diverse. Like most places in Europe, the ice cream is fantastic. Tomorrow will have a significant climb to ALTO DEL PERDON (forgiveness lookout) and the landscape should start to vary as we get closer and lower to the wine country.