Today’s stage from Os Valos to Arzúa was @ 20 miles. Rather than
leaving early as we typically do when walking longer distances, we decided to
leave later and see if we could miss the morning pilgrim’s rush. Our strategy seems to have worked fairly well, as there was virtually no one on the road between
Os Valos and Palas de Rei and even after Palas de Rei, the crowds were not horrific.
One other reason we decided to leave at 8:30 am rather than
6:30 am is that the pre-dawn temperatures have gotten fairly cold (mid to high
40’s) and none of us brought cooler weather walking clothes. The highs today
were supposed to be in the mid-70’s, but as I sit on the patio at our country
inn, I think it’s closer to 80 degrees.
Although our route today paralleled the busy N-547 highway
most of the way, the highway was screened from view by groves of eucalyptus and
other trees and thus was a pleasant walk. We stopped at the tiny 12th
century church of San Julian and as we entered, soft music was playing and the
atmosphere was hushed and prayerful. After
the last two days, it was very peaceful and I think I have my pilgrim ‘zen’
back.
Lunch was in Melide @ 2:30 pm and from there Rich
and I took a taxi to our lodging for the night. I haven’t been feeling well the
last few days and Rich’s feet start hurting after 11 or 12 miles. Becky and
Jerry finished the route in the hot afternoon sun.
We are now only 2 stages, 2 days and 24 miles from Santiago.
Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we will keep you in
ours. Vaya con Dios.
Buen Camino
Pointing the way to Santiago
Today's typical scenery - windmills on the hills, eucalyptus groves
and corn fields
Rich is taking the high road
Someone found a new walking stick!
Stopping for a rest on an old Roman bridge
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