What would travel be without meeting friends, old and new, along the way?

On Friday, Jan. 5 our Spain-based friend Erik was kind enough to pick us up in Valencia to drive south along the coast to his home between the pueblos of Lliber and Senija, nestled in a valley with mountains all around.

Friends and former Portland neighbors, Erik and Garry, opened up a dog-friendly bed and breakfast Villa Lobos along this popular cycling route – whole teams are seen training together on these country roads. It’s a slice of paradise with pool, and a short drive to the beach.

We enjoyed watching the local parade on the eve of Three Kings Day, walking their dogs, trading recipes, enjoying Sunday Lunch, and catching up on life, pets, work, travel and cuisine. Spending time with our generous hosts was all we could have asked for after seven weeks of traveling through Spain – definitely a highlight.

We’ve also met many new friends, photos below…