It was a relief to pack trekking boots and packs into duffles to board in Santiago for Madrid. We’re beyond satisfied with our Caminos and flush with gratitude. We’re also tired and ready to go home … after a few days R&R in Madrid!
For Saturday, I’d booked a small group tour of the old city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the iconic windmills of Don Quixote at Conseugra. No sleeping in! Plus, for the first time in weeks, breakfast was not waiting for us.
It was threatening rain as we taxied into Madrid. Today was a major holiday, celebrating heroes of discovery and Spanish diversity. Traffic was slowed by dozens of buses carrying military men and women to the parade center.
Wouldn’t you know our tour meeting point was smack dab in the middle of this mayhem! We stood under the awning of the appointed location, hoping our guide would find us. We weren’t moving out into that mess to look for him!
We marveled at the array of uniforms as buses unloaded. Some wore fancy military dress, braided trim and shiny medals, funky black vinyl hats with rounded front and flat backs. Others were dressed for battle, wearing camo and carrying automatic weapons. Still others seemed to have stepped off the page of a history book, in dramatic hooded capes of white and blue, red fez with dangling black braids, carrying large leather fringed bags and swords. And oh, so many more!
We’d have liked to take photos but felt conspicuous as families celebrated proud moments and captured memories. One large group dressed in army green took up chanting and rallying the crowd. There was much to entertain us in the wait. Suddenly, in a swarm, off they went to form up!
Just then, our tour guide, Yesid, found us and led us off to Atocha Station a few blocks away. It was huge — this is the place to land in Madrid! Here our tour group was completed by a lovely family from Costa Rica. Luis willingly spoke English, a big help on a Spanish tour.
We drove out of Madrid, past Toledo, to reach Consuegra. The village was extra quiet because of the holiday. Yesid led us to a cafe in perfect time to satisfy our grumbling tummies. Plus they sold saffron at a good price!
The windmills were located very near. I have only a vague recollection of Don Quixote; it didn’t matter. The scenery was spectacular! Set on a high ridge, the wind whipped wildly as we took in expansive views of surrounding plains, farms and distant mountains.
On the upper portion are seven named windmills that follow the story of Don Quixote. We received an explanation of each, prerecorded in English. We entered two windmills: one to learn mechanical functionality; the other more of a living space with small windows on the world.
We spent a couple hours there before moving on to Toledo. Most of our drive was nondescript, open plains on either side. The skies opened up as we drove; so grateful the rain held off!
Toledo is one of the most beautiful ancient walled cities. We walked in over the Alacantra Bridge, through the tower, past massive ancient gates. Impressive!
Our tour didn’t include much beyond a basic introduction to the old city. It was a marvel; a place where Jews, Christians, and Muslims lived in harmony.
We’d reserved a table at a traditional restaurant famed for Iberian ham. Spanish food has become familiar but this jamón was a cut above and served in a unique setting. There were three servings of meats, fresh tomatoes, Manchego cheese, and hearty bread and crackers.
We had free time for shopping and strolling. Being a national holiday, the small streets were crammed with families enjoying their day off. It wasn’t the best time to get to know this beautiful city but we’re glad for a glimpse.
Once again, the skies opened up but by then we were safely under cover. We took in one more scenic view of Toledo before heading back.
Our tour was super low key. As much of the conversation was in Spanish, we were able to zone out. Perfecto. Our minds are saturated with experiences these past weeks abroad. We’re still processing; no room for more info!
We both fell asleep briefly on the ride back, clearly in need of more rest and good sleep.
My devotional today was on the blessing of resting in the Lord. That’s rest on another level! It’s sacred space and a peaceful place, secure in the palm of God’s hand.
Irrespective of circumstances, absent fear and anxiety; there is no earthly substitute for this kind of rest. It’s the best rest — available to everyone! If that sounds like good news, download my breath prayer guide to learn more.
Hold hope. Keep faith. Walk your walk.
~ Sincerely, Sondra
Spectacular!