February frolics

[Bierzo Baggie]

Don’t normally go for a run on Mondays but today I had time ...so I went. This Monte Pajariel circuit is one I’ve probably done over 100 times and to reach this or any of the other trails you have to cross the river. If I used the nearest road-bridge I’d have to add another 20 minutes to my route so to save time I normally cross at a makeshift bridge about 5 minutes from home. It’s made from bits of wood and crates and is precariously wedged and nailed together amongst the rocks. Occasionally, when there’s a lot of rain the “bridge” is washed away but always miraculously reappears a few days later. I’ve never discovered the identity of the phantom bridge-builder or what exactly he gets out of it. Maybe it’s a hobby. I’d certainly like to buy him (or her) a pint one day because it saves me from doubling back and running through the town centre.
Anyway, nothing much to report from the run. Crossed the river with a bit of rock jumping included, (vegetarians avert your eyes now) passed by the friendly village slaughterhouse and and as always, followed the undulating dirt track along the River Sil until the village of Toral de Merayo. From here I take a quiet back-road through a wood of silver birch trees and past allotments until home.
Total running time 43 minutes (50% road 50% dirt track).