Left Arzua at 8:40, arrived hotel in O Pedrouzo 3:40. 13.4 miles.
First of all, the weather was perfect for our walk today. I’m so glad I decided to pack my hat in the suitcase. It wasn’t needed at all. Despite the fact that temperature was mid 80s, we were in shade about 75% of the time which made for a pretty comfortable walk.
Our big excitement for the day is that we found a Mexican restaurant less than a mile from our hotel. Speaking of which, we’ve been here before too. It is a modest place, but there is a pool, which Caleb may try out after dinner.
Two things that are irritating 1) loud talkers. Doesn’t matter what language, it’s annoying when you’re on a lovely walk. 2) stick people. This means people with walking sticks that insist on using them even when they don’t need the support. The click click click just makes me crazy. As it happens, these are the two things that have ticked me off on every Camino hike. So, why am I surprised. Hasn’t changed.
When you aren’t terribly tired and climbing hills incessantly, it’s easy for your mind to wander. Happened to me.
Leaving Arzua
There are so many interesting groups – plenty of women (primarily middle-aged), young men in groups and plenty of young couples, and a few older couples. It’s a real mix. So fun to see lots of different types enjoying this trip for what I’m assuming are a variety of reasons. In general, I believe they are trying to prove to themselves that they can do it. Have yet to see anyone struggle like they’re going to give up. In fact, there’s a kind of determination on peoples faces that is inspiring.
Of course, there’s a surprise or two. At lunch we watched a man patching his feet (again — at lunch!) with so many bandages and stuff. His wife (or girlfriend) was ignoring the process. I figured they’d been walking for weeks . When I came back from the restroom I mentioned this to Caleb. He said they’d been walking a week (overheard his conversation with an adjoining table). Clearly, he did no physical prep for the trip. The amount of bandages and blister protection – he must gave bought out a pharmacy! Takes all kinds.
And for my floral friends
Among our multiple hydration stops, we enjoyed a late snack at a barbecue spot. We smelled it before we saw it. We shared a rack of pork ribs – beautifully seasoned but slightly underdone for our taste. We scarfed down the outside easily and left more than satisfied.
We found the hotel and once again – we’ve been here before. The keys were left in our door, with our luggage outside – very trusting. Reception eventually appeared, so we checked in and got basic intel on how to get back in after dinner, along with breakfast hours. What else do you need?
Dinner at the Mexican restaurant was ok. We were sad to see it was not the one we have previously been to, (which was amazing), but we made do.
We head out tomorrow for our last day on the Camino. Caleb is already talking about doing it again next year. I’ve said it’s best to wait and see how he’s placed with school. That’s a conversation for another time.
As for me, I would do this hike for as long as I’m physically able. Honestly, don’t know what to do about not having it to look forward too. That also is a topic for a later date.
Until tomorrow – buenas noches
whiteannamarie8.com 