Tamorite de Litera to Monzón, 24 km

Elevation gain 145 m

Elevation loss 230 m

Total distance 188 km

Another bright and fresh morning, blue sky, fluffy clouds, bright sun and a brisk breeze, which has prompted me to put my fleece on for the first time. Thus far I have used arm warmers and a scarf over my shoulders which can be whipped off whilst walking along rather than having to remove my pack in order take off a jacket.

There are no villages or facilities during this stage and Paul can’t face all day without a hot drink so while he goes off in search of caffeine Marilyn and I set off.

The way out of town is via a small industrial estate and then onto track.

The landscape today is much the same as the last stages. Largely cereal crops, not many orchards, a bit more undulation. But we are also seeing different crops – newly planted corn and alfalfa.

A very wide irrigation channel is much in evidence today. We have to cross it several times which puzzles me – but when I look at my route on the map I can see that it takes a bit of a wiggle through the countryside. Presumably to service as many farmers as possible.

We pass a pomegranate orchard – I’ve not seen one of those before !

For a while the landscape is almost entirely golden which is beautiful, but I do miss the variety of green that we are used to.

We finally spot some animals roaming free – a few sheep and goats – the first in the week that we have been walking.

Although we didn’t pass through any villages today there were a few farmsteads alongside the track and some houses.

There hasn’t really been any shade on this camino and it gets quite hot as the day progresses. The sun is shining on our backs most of the day and the backs of my legs are a bit pink and sore (despite applying 50 factor protection).

Today’s accommodation is at the polideportivo (sports centre). I’ve slept in one before where we used the gymnastic landing mats for a bed. But this is a rather different experience. The town has a huge apartment building, presumably to accommodate visiting sports teams. There is a massive lounging area, an industrial kitchen and countless rooms. We have two rooms between us with a shared bathroom. Marilyn and I are especially grateful for the soft cotton sheets.

It is advisable to call ahead to check there is space for pilgrims and arrive at the sports centre to register before 13:30 or after 16:00.

Acogida en la Residencia de Deportistas

Pabellón Olimpicos, Calle Deportes 6, tel 974 404 894, email deportes@monzon.es. Recommended to email in advance to check availability. Highly reviewed. €10. Excellent facilities but a bit distant from town centre (1km) but there is a bar/restaurant near by.