For Good Measure

Left Pontevedra at around 8.15 am after orange juice, coffee and complimentary churros at a nearby cafe. Cannot understand why NZ cafes, particularly in Kerikeri, do not have these wonderful juice machines. Will try for a photo of one soon. Walked all day in the rain and at times gusty winds. Everyone was in the same boat but all kept their sense of humour and made light of the weather. The couple of cafes on route were crowded with people, packs and wet ponchos. Arrived in Caldas de Reis at 3.45pm. The last few kms at snails pace. We were wet through but at least it is not cold. Located our accommodation, Villa Galicia  showered and did the laundry. Lots of clothing items drying in the room including our very wet walking shoes. A pizza dinner tonight and an early night. Hoping for a fine day tomorrow for our walk to Padron. 19 degrees high. Some fancy cakes at the bakery this morning. We didn't have any! An unhappy looking water fount.

Set out at 7.45 after self service breakfast at the albergue. Crossed the river on the historic Ponte Sampanio bridge. Past the memorial plaque commemorating the local militias defeat of Napolean. We had hoped for a coffee at O Romano's just over the bridge but it was not open yet. Walked up and down hilly cobbled roads for  2.5km before heading into the wooded hillside for climb up the hill. Nearly 9km before we came to Santa Marta and a cafe. Freshly squeezed orange juice 1 euro 50, coffee and Spanish omelet. Refreshed we walked about a kilometre and then took the option to walk the riverside route to Pontevedra rather than the traditional route which walks along the main highway. A kilometre longer via the river but a good choice with quiet, shaded walk along earth track. Fewer pilgrims today and no large groups. Arrived at 12.30 having enjoyed the cooler walking conditions. Staying at pension  Casa Maruja which is on the cathedral square in the old city. (€50.00 double ...

We didn't enjoy Porrino as much as other places we have stayed at so far. (Update, we had two nights in O Porrino in Oct 2024 staying in a lovely apartment overlooking the square and we loved it.)  We left the albergue at 7.15 for coffee and tomatoes and olive oil on toast before making our way to the station to catch the 8,22 train to Redondela. While we were waiting a Spanish woman got off the train travelling in the opposite direction. She had been asleep and missed her stop of Redondela. We conversed using our phone translator apps while waiting for the train which was late. The conductor gave all 3 of us a free ride. Once at Redondela we made our way into town and a helpful fellow guided us to the yellow arrows to pick up the Camino path again. The locals are always very kind to peregrinos (pilgrims). As we left the town we came across large groups of Austrian and German walkers with just day packs. They were part of tours that walk the last 100km of the Camino. (We struck ...

Left Valenca at 8.45 after breakfast at nearby cafe. Crossed the Rio Minho into Spain. The Portugues/Spanish border is the middle of the river.  (I wonder how they share the water?) A foot in each country. We can't do that in New Zealand! Walked to Tui 3.4 km. Visited the cathedral and looked around the old city. Teresa bought a Spanish Sim card for her phone which we are advised will also work in Paris. A Canadian couple from Ottawa we have met several times along the way she walks and he rides a fold up bike as his feet are not good. (Note the noodle used to ensure cars give room rather than crash protection)  After lunch we caught the bus to Porrino (giving our feet a rest afternoon). A lovely Spanish woman waiting for the bus was enthusiastic about our walk. We had a 30 minute conversation in Spanish and English (each of us having about the same understanding of the others language). A pleasant encounter. Arrived at 2.30   26 degre...

Very good accomodation last night spacious own room with bathroom. After breakfast at the hostel we left at 8.15. Leaving Vila Nova de Cerveira we passed this art installation which features mannequin body parts. The inscription explained: "The Wall of Shame - this wall makes reference to the wall between the US and Mexico and the wall between Israel and Palestine where thousands of people have died." This building houses the swimming pool. Todays walk followed the Minho river along the  Ecovia or Ecopista (shared walk / cycle ways). Lovely walk with lots of shade. Cyclists here are very polite and considerate which makes for a relaxing walk. The pathways are also very wide so there is no problem. The path on the left is the ecopiste for walkers and cyclists. We often found the track for motorbikes, horses and cars easier on the feet. No cafe or bars along the way. Stopped for a picnic lunch.  2 kilometers before our destination, just when ...