The guidebook graded the hike from Ribadeo to Lourenza (29 kms) as challenging. We resolved to get an early start and were walking out of town by 7.15am.
Almost immediately, we noticed changes now we’re in Galicia. The Camino signage improved. It would be difficult to take the wrong path in Galicia. We spent the day walking along woodland paths and enjoyed some marvellous views across the hilly countryside.
I found the going tough especially the 350m climb. Sheila on the other hand appears to get stronger by the day. She climbed those 350m like it was level ground.
We got ourselves in to a bit of a panic yesterday. Being just one week from Santiago we thought we really needed to book accommodation in the city especially as we have been informed that there is a 4-day fiesta from 10th-14th June. We will hopefully arrive on 12th right in the middle of it.
I started to make some calls. After a dozen or so with everyone telling me ‘lo siento, estamos completos’ (sorry we’re fully booked), I was becoming concerned thinking I would need to book somewhere a considerable distance from the city centre. Luckily, I eventually managed to book a hotel for a couple of nights just an 8 minute walk from the Cathedral.
When we started in Irun, for 3 weeks we never booked a hotel or hostel, we just bowled up. Not once were we turned away. We have noticed that there are a lot more pilgrims on the trail now and we need to book our accommodation a day in advance. Not only that, we normally have to provide an estimate of tbe time we will arrive. This is because the proprietar will let your room to someone else if you don’t get there. This will get worse as we get closer to Santiago.
With just six days to go before we arrive in Santiago, Sheila and I both feel sad that our adventure is coming to an end. Just when I have learned how to do this ‘walk 20+ km a day. Day after day. It is all coming to an end.
Buen Camino
Wandering Boomers 