Waterfall

It rains lightly as I wake up. I look around to take a good look at where I have ended up, because yesterday in the pitch dark I couldn’t see anything. My shelter overlooks fast-flowing water, and a hundred meters further is absolutely beautiful. A small waterfall on dark rocks. I could watch that for hours.

Milestone

After a heavier downpour, thankfully without thunderstorms, I set off. And then I suddenly realize that I have passed 10,000 kilometers. I’ve walked 10,000 whole kilometers since my 60th birthday. On to 100,000, because that is my ‘goal’ in quotes. Only 90,000 to go!

Treat

Since I enjoy pausing at milestones, I make the numbers 10,000 from leaves and treat myself to a hostel. Shower, washing machine, wifi, and time to explore how I will continue after the Hallandsleden. I book an inn in the center of Halmstad, or at least that’s what I think…

Wrong address

The website states it is located in the center. I save the address in my navigation app. I take the train from Oskarström to the city, but… no inn at the address. My sleeping place turns out to be nine kilometers further away. Same street name, but in a completely different location. I really don’t feel like walking there anymore, so I take the bus back. On the same route I just covered by train. Sigh.

Back in time

The inn is a delight. It feels like I am going back in time fifty years. Everything is old but spotless and in great condition. With a beautiful garden and rural tranquility. I’ll take the extra bus ride as part of the deal. I am comfortable. Tomorrow I’ll take the bus back to Halmstad. I want to buy gas and pick up the official route again.

The enemy

All my gear goes into the washing machine. I receive brightly scented sheets and a bath towel from the owner, who traveled the world hitchhiking for seven years with only a plastic tarp. He didn’t have a tent. “People are not your enemies,” he says. “I have never experienced it that way. The enemy is the weather. That can really be tough.” And yes, I can confirm that. Along the way, you meet many beautiful and friendly people, just like this time.

Accommodation: Åled