The first 7 kilometers today was on the road shoulder but we were awarded with real American style breakfast of fried eggs, chorizo, and bread in Vega de Valcarce. Yum!
From there we were on rocky trails along mountain streams. It was the last big climb of the Camino. An ascent up 700 meters (2200 feet) in only 5 kilometers. It felt like the Smokies, except the rocks are very angular and sharp.
We both are nursing sore right feet but alternating Tylenol, idropropen, and red wine has helped. Laurel bought a walking stick today and the bar gave us a bag of ice. Not enough to really slow us down.
We crossed into Galicia very early in the day and pushed on to the village of O'Cebreiro for the night.
My limited Spanish has been OK but I had the check-in with a woman speaking Galician.
We were not able to make reservations ahead but we got a room with a great view and a bathroom for 30 euros. Last night we shared 2 bathrooms with 20 people but enjoyed the company.
As an added benefit we have a outstanding view.
There was a Saturday vigil mass for pilgrims at 7pm. It is a beautiful ritual with pilgrims selected to read in English, Italian, French, and German. Most of the responses were in Latin so old Catholics could just join in the music. The church had extra chairs and was standing room only.
As we were leaving to return to our place for dinner, there were ten German college students who were coming in to spend the night in the church. This is a town of 74 people with 206 beds for pilgrims and every bed is full.
For dinner tonight-- Pulpo Galicia -- octopus soup. It was outstanding.
Tomorrow we push for the Samos Monastery.
Buen Camino!
Looking towards Santiago.
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