Padron to Santiago de Compostela 28km

I made it! We made it! I was in so much discomfort this morning that I wasn’t sure I could make it. My body has taken an absolute beating these past few years and the pain in my feet, hips, pelvis and back were enough to almost end it for me!  They say that Panadol and Nurofen are the Camino tic tacs and I made sure of that today. Six pain killers, 100mg Voltaren and Voltaren gel are what got me through. Brian was an absolute trooper! I feel so privileged to share this with him. 

It was so emotional to arrive at the cathedral after such a long time in my plan. Having Covid delay the trip for several years and then not being able to finish my cycling trip last year, it was always going to be a roller coaster!  Seeing the cathedral again after I was here 12 years ago also brought back so many memories. I was so grateful to be able to share this with Brian. It was nice to be able to hug at the end of such a difficult challenge. 

I did it! It was tough! I’m not a hiker! I’ve promised myself not to challenge myself in such a difficult way in the future. This one almost broke me! I’ve told Brian to tell me to f**k off if I mention such a stupid idea again! He didn’t bother waiting! 🤣

Now for a few days R&R and a some other things up my sleeve! 

Caldas da Reis to Padron 21km

As the heat intensifies, we are starting our walk much earlier. This morning it was in the dark! We navigated by Brian’s torchlight and my phone. 

The walking was a mix of small roads, gravel paths and some technical parts that proved challenging. 

We arrived at lunch time and found the perfect cafe with cold beer, including gf beer, and gf food! I might be back there for dinner! Being Sunday, there was a massive market in town. I’m quite surprised by the amount of rubbish left behind, not only by people attending, but the stall holders. The council equivalent are working to clean it up this afternoon before the evening dinner and drinks rush hour begins. Padron is a lovely town with lots of small streets and a cooling treed avenue along the river. 

We only have one day to go and both Brian and I are experiencing some challenges physically. We will leave early again tomorrow as we have a massive day with lots of climbing. Fingers crossed we can get each other over the line! 

Pontevedra to Caldas da Reis 22km

We started early to try to avoid some of the heat as it is ramping up the closer we get to SDC. The walk today wasn’t quite as challenging as other days but difficult all the same. It wasn’t quite as technical or hilly but did have components that kept up honest! 

Brian and I found an amazing Roman bath where we decided our feet needed cooling off despite only a couple of kilometres to go. We also found the river in Caldas and cooled our feet once more as the 35 degrees reflected from the stone and granite walls.

We met some lovely people from Canberra on the way and ended up having lunch with them in Caldas before they departed by taxi for their ‘resort’.

Unfortunately, despite paying for an air conditioned room, it isn’t and despite many conversations, it’s going to have to do. The alternatives were a room with a private bathroom - doesn’t solve the heat issue, or a refund - then to find somewhere else in a small town. Neither of these would work so I have to accept it and move on, 

With only two more days to go, we are planning on early starts to avoid the heat and as often as possible to take advantage of the various cafe stops and Roman baths along the way. 

Next stop, Padron! 

Relocation and a rest day in Pontevedra (12km)

After an early relocation as planned, and after speaking with family and friends back home, Brian and I set out for a late breakfast at a gluten free cafe. It was so refreshing to be able to eat without concern. 

We took a guided tour of the city with some of the competitors in the world triathlon games being hosted here at Pontevedra. It’s a shame we are not here for the finals on Sunday but already we are planning an early departure on Saturday as the roads will be closed for one of the events.

The guided tour gave us some valuable insights into the history of Pontevedra and its standing as the capital of Galicia, a region in Spain, despite Vigo challenging for the mantle. We learnt about the various coats of arms and the religious artefacts. The main church has its own Patron who looks after the pilgrims on their way to SDC. 

Pontevedra decided 25 years ago to give the streets back to the people and take cars out of the city, reducing traffic and pollution. They have received numerous international awards for their efforts and it shows in the liberal way everyone wanders the city centre with very limited cars. There are only certain times, days and reasons cars can come into the city. Otherwise, you park on the periphery and walk in. 

It’s been a lovely rest day despite lots of walking. Now to focus on the next three big days ahead! 💪🏻😀🦄