After Lamego, Portugal, we crossed the border into Spain. Because the Pope was visiting Fatima, Portugal, we were prepared for more than normal EU border interrogation. However, probably because we were leaving Portugal rather than entering, no one paid any attention to us.

On the way to Ciudad Rodrigo, Spain, we stopped and had a picnic. We figured that would save us time on the road – besides it was fun!

However, then we had a flat tire, which cost us time on the road. Please note that we were properly garbed in our fluorescent vests! And we were glad as the local police stopped to offer assistance, and we never had to confess that we’re just ignorant tourists.

We stayed in the tower in the center of town, the Parador of Ciudad Rodrigo. A parador in Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries is a kind of luxury hotel, usually located in a converted historic building such as a monastery or castle. (Parar means to stop, halt or stay.) This parador was actually a 14^th century castle within the fortress walls of the historical center.

We actually had dinner in a beautiful room of the castle!

Photo credits:  Bard, Burbank and Griesse.