Another good breakfast – I took my time, knowing that I had accommodation just 16.5 km away. The Camino goes downhill slightly to the castle, and straight through it, which is kind of interesting. Then down down more before exiting the town.

I knew there would be no services or villages for the rest of the day. The walk consisted of very steep uphill for an hour, then moderate but steady uphill, for about 10 km, before starting on undulating up and down. The views were nice enough, but not much variety. I found it tedious.

Finally, down to the tunnels and overpasses to cross the motorway and two train lines. The Siete Aguas train station is in this area, but the town is a couple of km further UP a hill. I was supposed to call a particular number, to be provided with accommodation, so I went up the hill and then called. Well, the person who answered hadn’t got the memo. I didn’t want to make a fuss, and I knew about some train options, so I just said “fine” and headed back down the hill to the highways and trains.

I had 3 hours before the next train. Fortunately there was a good restaurant at the Repsol station. I felt much better after a hot meal and a successful interaction with  Booking.com, to secure a room near the next train station (El Rebollar) where there is another truckers stop and motel. Sounds a bit  complicated, but I guess it was.

So here I am – not the finest truckers stop I’ve stayed at, but I am very happy with it. Once I wrestled the various window coverings open, the view of trucks to/from other countries in Europe is actually rather interesting.

Planning tips

Turns out that because of the accommodation uncertainty, the local Camino Amigos suggest that pilgrims walk from Buñol to the Siete Aguas station (without going up that last hill), and catch the mid-afternoon train to Requena. They can book 2 nights in Requena, backtracking by train in the morning to walk up the hill to Siete Aguas, and on to Requena.

My personal opinion is that this stage could be skipped entirely. The next day includes a few hours of similar terrain, so you wouldn’t miss anything. Just take the train from Buñol, past Siete Aguas, to Requena, and then backtrack only to Siete Aguas.