Day 16: Figeac to Espagnac-Saint-Eulalie

~16 miles, rolling hills, beginning of the Célé Valley

Today we got back to walking and did one of our longest days yet! I felt much stronger than I had before the break, so I’m glad I listened to my body and let it rest and recuperate. The hike out of Figeac was tough (uphill), but the rest of the day was fairly mellow and very beautiful. The Célé river flows through vertical limestone cliffs and is rugged and remote. Once we left the GR65 (official route) We didn’t encounter any other people while walking outside of the towns we passed through. However we did encounter more butterflies than I have ever seen before! They were everywhere and gorgeous.

For the first 7 miles, while still on the GR65, we walked with a French couple, Pasquale and Florence, who began in Figeac (today was their first day) and will be walking for a few weeks. Pasquale, lived in Oregon for a semester in college in the 90s, so we instantly connected and had great conversations until our paths diverted when we split off for the Célé Valley. Sometimes Camino friends only last for a few hours, but they are always special!

Our accommodation for the evening was a Chambre d’Hôte, Célézen. We were the only guests so we got to connect with our hosts who enjoyed practicing English. The meal was delicious and the place very quiet and peaceful.

We will spend the next few days in the Célé Valley before rejoining the Lot Valley, which will mark last few days of our walk. It’s going by so fast!