Walked 23.4 km (14.6 mi) in the Kinzig Valley that channels its river by the same name, as well as the train, interstate freeway, and pilgrims' route. I seemed ushered downstream with the other modes with little to say about it. The picture captures the valley while looking over a wheat field.
I took a break about halfway in Gelnhausen, a typically German-looking town--but what else (see the pics, along with the third one that was shows a water stop already some 7,000 years ago, its use well established by travelers on the Via Regia). So, although I may not have had any blue shells marking my way, I'm convinced with that spring that the way is authentic.
I already had misgivings about finding a pilgrim-priced place since only a 3-star hotel was available--Booking.com listed it for $100! I ventured a look inside to see if they could help me find something more reasonable--I don't need all that luxury. Well, the receptionist, who was positive about finding something with the church, took it as a personal challenge for well over an hour. She was in disbelief that she couldn't find anything. Last resort was getting her mgr. to give me a room for 39€ (a far cry from $100!). I was happy to get that and after doing my chores went grocery shopping for "dinner"--rolled marinated herring filets--my favorite!
