Day 60, Friday 13/5:

We set off for Extremadura today, with hearty breakfast in belly and packed lunch in hand. We drove to the Montefragüe National Park, passing through the very pretty Jerte Valley en route. After entering the park we pulled off into a car park to admire the view. As we went to drive off again, the unmistakable sound of a flat tyre was heard. It turned out to be on the front passenger’s side. Unloading our belongings from the boot, we set about replacing the tyre, which we were able to do quite successfully, no thanks to the rather lousy manual. Onward we went, next stopping at a lookout over the River Tajo – wannabe birdwatchers abounding, busily scanning the cliff tops. However, only the most experienced birdwatchers are able to spy the most endangered of species. Fortunately, ornithologist Patsy Fraser was up to the task, quickly spotting one half of the three Stork pairs known to reside in this reserve. A most impressive feat.

I then went to find a cache located near a small hilltop castle – without a doubt the best cache I found in Spain (of which there were only 6 out of 15!!) with excellent views and reasonably challenging to get to.

Then it was on to our final destination at Olivenza. We set up shop before heading out on the town, stopping to have a dinner of raciones (dishes the next size up from a tapa), street side.