Distance: Barletta to Benevento 168 km in 2 hours by train.

Benevento to Ruviano 28.8 miles

Medieval pilgrims had fewer practical choices than the modern day pilgrim. Yesterday morning we made a practical decision to do without all our high tech routing equipment and take the train on an unrideable section of the Eurvelo 5. We arrived at the station to catch a train to Benevento.

Malcolm you were spot on in the first place with your prediction.

Unfortunately there were major rail works along the route, trains were cancelled and a bus replacement service in place. Sound familiar?

We could take our bikes on the bus if they were collapsible.

On arrival we made our way to the Cathedral hoping for another stamp.

Our destination was Ruviano. A very small town with steep roads. Indeed so small it doesn’t have any restaurants open.

But we are well prepared. Alison is excited and in her element as she has her gaz stove. Except the fitting doesn’t link with the gaz cylinder she bought en route. Never mind she says cheerfully, she still has the water heater and can make us a cup of soup. Just what you need after a long day in the saddle.

Our room has a microwave but no china, no cutlery, bowls or anything useful. But Alison is enthused and decides to make us Pasta Choice from a packet.

We are in a country with delicious and bountiful food. And this evening Quatermaster is serving up Pasta Choice from a packet.

After a busy day all food is welcome. A meal sufficiently frugal for a pilgrim we think.

Another piece of good news. Alison is using her new sleeping bag. I am pleased to report she is very happy with it. The one sheet on our beds is insufficient even for hardy pilgrims.

How do you get from here to Rome? Just follow the road signs with a bit of help from Kevin and Charlie.

We hope Rome is ready for us.

Good night.