For some reason the name of this place was proving difficult to hang on to. Francine had an aide memoire word: Tapioca. In my case, Tilapia sprang to mind.
Whatever it was called it was a long hop for this itinerary of about 200 kms but it was broken by a tour of Sidra Crespo. Leader Andy’s partner, Pati, is Spanish and did an excellent job of simultaneous translation as the head lady explained their processes.
Spanish sidra is a dry, flat affair but they have ways of trying to inject some life into it. These include pouring it into a glass from a great height or using a tabletop pump device which siphons it out of a botte into a glass in a holder. Either way, the trick is to pour only a mouthful at a time, which can be drunk before it loses the added air.
Following the sidra tour there was, of course, the obligatory gift shop where we bought a bottle together with some smoked cheese; leader Andy thinks cheese makes a good accompaniment.
After pausing at a bar in the nearby town for coffee and a bocadillo [sandwich], we headed off to our clifftop campsite at Tapia de Casariego. Levelling proved a bit tricky – could’ve done with higher ramps so Frodo was at a bit of an angle – but it was a well equipped campsite with the reception supplying bread avoiding the need to go downhill into town.
The clifftop provided some great views of waves crashing on rock formations. I’d been wanting an opportunity to get the tripod out and play with my Big Stopper ND filter to smooth out the water. Here it was, though given all the long grass at the cliff edge, getting the tripod settled and stable – there was a stiff breeze – was quite a challenge.
At low tide, a modest collection of waders was working along the water’s edge.
Early on our second morning, I found Francine sitting on rocks at the top of the beach, not wanting to spoil the smooth sand with her footprints. I understood completely, it did look pristine.
Our visit to Tapia de Casariego ended on our second evening with a great team meal down near the harbour in town. Naturally, we lubricated our taste buds first with a few drinks overlooking the harbour. After drinks, Andy’s restaurant choice kept us well supplied with a wonderful variety of raciones.
Everyone had to walk both ways in and out of town ‘cos taxis – there were apparently three – were notable by their absence, for a variety of reasons. The quality of the food was such that it was all worthwhile, though.
Recent Comments