3rd June Relative

 Getaria to Izarbide 28km

The concepts of time and distance are relative depending on the context. We have all experienced periods of time that appear to have flown by (my services) and equal periods of time that felt as if they had lasted an eternity (also my services ). 

The same with distance for I am sure I am not alone in thinking that the distance coming back from any holiday is at least twice as long as the outward journey was.

Day three of the del Norte has brought these ideas ino sharp focus. Looking at each days itinerary it has been surpising to see how long the expert guide writers have predicted it will take to get from A-B. Surely I thought it's  not going to take me 90 mins to walk 3.5kms ?And then the reality check happened. 

I expect some of you have already started asking why is it taking John so long to cover such distances? Is he prostrating himself along the floor like a giant caterpillar...and that may I remind you is very different from John prostating himself to Santiago, which would certainly make the front page of the Methodist Recorder.

The simple answer is that this initial part of the route, through the fiercely proud and patriotic Basque country, is what might be described as "lumpy", What goes up has to come down only to go back up again. Sometimes it can appear that the trail simply goes up and then down a valley just for fun, or winds round almost in a circle just for a giggle. You can imagine just how much I have laughed...not.

Today has been another overcast, damp and downright wet day at times, with the sun nothing more than a distant memory back in Bilbao, The trails are mud baths, the downhills like ice rinks at times and my shoes are several kgs heavier than when I started out. And I haven't even mentioned the chaffing!!

Today has been another day clocking in at just under 30km starting just after 7am and ending a little before 3pm. The bed is sorted, the scalding hot shower enjoyed, the damp clothes have been removed and are 'drying', my sartorially splendid non walking attire is on and life, life is good!