I had no problems following the Camino out of Real de La Jara.  I simply walked to the end the village and picked up the old dirt road which had once been guarded by a mighty castle.  The road snaked through the beautiful Parque Natural for 12 kilometres and, where it met the new road, there was a café with good food.  The final 10 kilometres were not so great, close to the main road.  I got into Monesterio about 2.

The first building in Monesterio is the Turismo.  They were very keen to furnish me with maps but, sadly informed me that the Ham Museum ( El Museo de Jamon) was closed.  They like to keep in step with the Louvre and all the international museums, hence closed Monday. I had fancied getting more information on those dark and hairy princesses I have been keeping company with along the way, and maybe a nibble at one or two, to boot.  This news threw me back on my own devices – how to punch in an afernoon in Monesterio.

Dan The Turismo were able to recommend Hostal Pilar, €29 for a good single, a full meal and breakfast the next morning.  The comedor ( dining room) is just across the street.  They have an excellent menu del día and the waiter recommended migas, followed by riñones, washed down with a glass of local red ( see photos).  As they are all three specialities of the area, they would serve to celebrate my safe arrival in Extremadura. Fate then took a twist in my favour.  I discovered that the excellent local wine is only €1 per glass ( see photo of half empty bottle).  The afternoon slipped in rightly.  Fuentes de Cantos tomorrow 22 kilometres.