October 06: Distance: 16.6 Km / 10.3 miles
Stage Two Villages
Rabanal del Camino, Foncebadón 5.2, (Cruz de Ferro 2.3), Manjarín 2.3, El Acebo 6.8 (Then taxi to Molinaseca)
Watch for:
Molinaseca – Bridge: Seven-arched 12th century Romanesque pilgrim’s bridge, Puente de los Peregrinos, crosses over the Rio Meruelo. The bridge leads directly into Old Town.
Warning! Leaving Rabanal – Be sure to fill your water & take provisions to fuel the climb.
Foncebadón – View: Upon arrival, turn around to see the mountains you just climbed. Continue to climb toward Monte Irago and Cruz de Ferro, the Camino’s highest point.
Cruz de Ferro – 6.9km past Rabanal
Manjarín – Modern day Templar knight: A vacant hamlet except for the efforts of Tomás Martinez de Paz, who since 1993 has restored parts in service to pilgrims and the Camino. He picked this location to assist on a remote stretch with little support (Beebe).
Leaving Manjarín – At the highest point of Monte Irago’s pass, midway between Manjarín and El Acebo, you’ll stand on the right (south) edge of Alto Altar Mayor (1,515 meters/4,970 ft) for a full view of El Acebo and Ponferrada. Steep descent to El Acebo.
El Acebo – Olive tree: An ancient olive tree is planted near the church wall in the church square. First olive tree for this part of the Camino.
Dining:
Hostal-Restaurante El Palacio immediately to the right after crossing the bridge. Magnetic riverside cafe, full service restaurant. (Bebee)
Mesón Puente Romano, across the path from El Palacio, serves traditional Molinasecan cuisine. (Bebee)
**Hotel Rural El Capricho de Josana has a creative chef who draws upon the kitchen-garden. Even the menú del peregrino shows his innovations, a mix of usual suspects with original dishes. (Bebee most recommended)
Lodging Info:
Lodging: Hostel El Horno (In Molinaseca) €43.00 / $46.60
+34 695 31 08 72 / Rañadero, 3, 24413 Molinaseca
Public Transportation Along this Stage:
Molinaseca: Bus