Camino Francés - Day 16: Hontanas to Boadilla del Camino
The route out of Hontanas was a narrow trail, and with our headlamps, we managed to avoid stepping in muddy puddles—some were huge with no way around them. Luckily, we kept our shoes dry.
About 5 km in, we reached the ruins of San Antón, where we met familiar pilgrims who had stayed there. They shared their experience of dining by candlelight, with no electricity, and preparing their own food. If I walk the Camino again, I’d love to stay there for the experience.
Our next stop was Castrojeriz, not wanting to make the same mistake from last night, we stocked up on instant noodles, fruit, and snacks. Feeling prepared, we continued—only to find out later that our albergue had no kitchen or kettle. The owner, who also ran the hotel next door, offered a small pot of hot water for €2, but we hesitated.
While deciding what to do, we chatted with an elderly local woman who generously invited us to use her kitchen. After eating, we offered to clean up, but she simply smiled and said, "No, buen camino." We were so touched—this must be what people mean when they say the Camino provides.
Route Overview
Distance: 29.03 km (Albergue Municipal San Juan → Albergue en El Camino0415)
Total elevation gain: 280 m
Duration: 5 hr 46 min (with breaks 7 hr 56 min)
Difficulty: Hard
Cost Breakdown
Accommodation: Albergue en El Camino0415 (Reserved via WhatsApp) — €14
Food: €20.63
