The Church of Santa María was my morning parting shot of Belorado.

A view of Ermita Virgen de la Peña passing through Tosantos.

I was so happy it wasn’t raining, nearly everything looked worthy of a picture.

Until the steep ascent starting in Villafranca Montes de Oca.

This is about the half way point. The town is just visible below.

Despite the climb, the change in flora and fauna was welcome.

I especially enjoyed hearing birdsong other than cuckoos.

There were even whimsical notes.

Too much of a good thing started to come to mind.

Finally, out of the woods.

After being denied at every other establishment in San Juan de Ortega, I made the decision to stay at the monastery. I had intended to continue on to Agés but it has fewer beds and I didn’t want to risk not finding an available one.