That was a tough walk – not because of distance, but simply having to get out of the city took forever, down busy highways and it seemed to go for ever. It was 27km and all of it was on asphalt or cobblestones. We eventually did make a turn towards rural Portugal and that seemed to provide some hope that we might eventually get back to the country paths and trails which we have been waiting for.
We have made it to Arcos where we are staying for the night and met a chap from the Netherlands when we stopped for a coffee this afternoon. He is walking his 14th Camino – this time he has done a circle route that took him from Porto to Santiago via the coastal route, then joining the mystical route walking BACK to Porto via the Central route. This was his last day. The Central route is the Camino that we are walking. I thought we were a little crazy doing this for the second time in two years – but he told me that he is coming back in September to walk from Seville following yet another route to Santiago…clearly he enjoys walking!
Tonight we are staying in a converted farm house and dinner is provided at the home – which is a blessing as we have walked the village and apart from the cafe which looked like slim pickings – we would have to walk back 5km for a meal where we have just come from.
We still cannot get over how beautiful the OLD part of Porto is, but interestingly once we got out to the burbs, we wondered how many of the residents who don’t live in the historic part of the city, actually enjoy the beauty of the old town and the amazing Douro river.
Looks like a beautiful day was had, and that your enjoying this journey every bit as much. Minus the paved roads…Impressive for sure…be well My Friends..
Hi Rory – lovely to know that you are following our journey – we miss the “old crew” from last year…we had a great time didn’t we…We know that Paul is walking this Camino in October commencing from Porto rather than Lisbon – we would suggest that to anyone prepared to listen. The walk from Lisbon had glimpses of promise followed by miles of ordinary – the reverse of last year. Anyway, take care and hi from both of us.
It is truly stunning…all of it…every last tile and bridge…tart and vino! Yes, I’d pop back any time too!! Fabulous reunion just to top it all off!
It is truly beautiful Ang – I called Helen and suggested she reduce her time in Lisbon and up it in Porto – would come back any time.