We had a gentler walk today after yesterday’s effort – 22.4 km. We came down a further 140 m but there was still 360 metres of ascent due to the lumpy nature of the route. We’re now more than 1,000 metres below our highest point.
We have fallen into the walking pattern of stops at one third and two thirds of the distance with perhaps a penultimate spot to carry us for the last few kms. Fortunately, on this well travelled section Camino there are frequent cafés to choose between.
It was quieter again today with everyone walking at their own steady pace. This meant the route became nicely spaced out.
At the end of the day the formal route went though the woods around the village on the main road. At the road junction with the Camino path there were very few of the normal signs directing the pilgrims. Most walked alongside the road to the village which was presumably the plan by the café owners. Meanwhile we very much enjoyed the quiet walk by ourselves through super woods.
We were instructed to ring our accommodation about 45 minutes before our arrival at our pickup point. I was pleased to be able to have a conversation about our position all in Spanish. The effort to learn Spanish has proven to be worthwhile.
We are staying at a delightful old house in the countryside. It is very quiet apart from all the birdsong.
Tomorrow morning we get taken back to the pick up point. Although we have to walk around Santiago airport we will have only 16 km to walk to arrive at the cathedral.
Julian and Beryl's camino 