“Hey, Dad…I think I want to challenge myself and do a 30+ km day. What do you think?”
“Sure,” I said. “Let’s do it!” What was I thinking?
Well, it was an adventure! We ended up walking 36.5 km from Valença, Portugal, to Redondela, Spain! It was about eight hours of walking and well beyond our average and previous high. But we did it!
I asked Charlotte at dinner tonight if she felt like she challenged herself. Fortunately, she said yes, so I hope we’re done with that little exercise for a while!
Since we’re at day seven, I’ll just throw this weekly average out here while we’re at it. Not bad, huh? Apple tells me that “There have been changes in your distance and steps trends.” Ya think?
It really was another great day on the Camino though. I woke up early and hit the road about an hour before Charlotte (with the long day planned, I certainly needed the head start!). This whole little town was built inside of the fortress where we stayed last night, and at dawn, I had the place to myself.
I saw a beautiful sunrise as I headed across the bridge from Portugal to Spain.
This is at the midpoint of the bridge. I’m not sure if this is the actual border, but it’s still kind of fun anyway. Note that I’ve changed shoes today and gone with the super cool, “socks with sandals” look. More about that later.
And finally, España!
I quickly notice that the Camino markers look a little different as I enter Spain. And I’m sticking with the fashion advice!
I made it about ten km before stopping for my usual coffee. My Spanish is better than my Portuguese, so I could even order in the local language!
My coffee break was long enough, and Charlotte’s pace was quick enough, that she quickly caught up with me, and we walked together for much of the rest of the day. As usual, there was lots to admire. (Notice Charlotte’s very fashionable footwear choice as well. 🙂)
This was an odd place to see a classic Dodge!
These are reportedly first or second century AD Roman road markers.
This picture was taken around the 30 km mark before we began a steep descent into Redondela, our destination for the night. We don’t look too bad, do we? And did I mention that we ascended nearly 3,000 feet during our leisurely 36.5 km stroll?
It’s a crowded bunk room here tonight with about 30 beds in one room. What do you expect for €17? It’s pretty quiet so far though!
Oh, and about that footwear change…I started having some toe issues after yesterday’s walk, so I switched to sandals for today, and it went pretty well. We’ll see how it goes, but I guess walking 135 km in six days CAN leave a mark!
I’ll spare you any photos of my toes. 🙂
