On the Camino: One Day at a Time, one Photo at a Time 11.0

[Rowena]

April 25, 2022 Camino Invierno, A Rua to Quiroga.
The fifth day began with an early morning train ride to Montefurado. Taking the train for the first 10 km of this challenging day reduced the distance to a manageable 19 or so. Right away the path climbed steeply up out of the valley of the Rio Sil.

 

[Anne&Pat]

Nearly at Roncesvalles, CF, 10th May 2022. Beautiful tree lined path with lots of shade.

 

[Theatregal]

Setting off from Rabanal del Camino at first light.. October 1, 2023

 

[mspath]

Camino Frances
Amenal
marker

photo taken December 3, 2011



At Last! Only 13 km more to go!

 

[FourSeasons]

del Norte - July 15, 2019
After approx 2.5 hours from Portugalete, I’m back out to the sea in La Arena. First stop for a well deserved cafe con letche and tortilla. Then off I go, looking back.

 

[Kirkie]

This was taken during the Camino Ingles, in 2019.
Rain?
Remember rain?
I took the photo, my walking companion is nearest the camera. We share all our photos.

 

[SabsP]

Rain and mud on the Camino Ingles. 2018.

 

[Kirkie]

del Norte - July 15, 2019
After approx 2.5 hours from Portugalete, I’m back out to the sea in La Arena. First stop for a well deserved cafe con letche and tortilla. Then off I go, looking back.

View attachment 165227

Familiar terrain, when I lived in Portugalete and Sestao over 20 years ago. Thanks for the memory!

 

[Kirkie]

Just in case I forget to post again soon, here is a cheat second in one day.
This is a detail of the back of a chair in Christchurch in Dublin.
I took advantage of my credential and my intention to walk the Ingles, on my Celtic Camino towards the Ingles Compostela.
Presenting the credential permits free access to the church where you can look with wonder at the floor tiles, and the seatbacks, with beautiful Camino motifs, and absorb the gift of centuries of intention in this marking place on the way to Santiago.

 

[Rowena]

April 25, 2022

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
Praza do Obradoiro

photo taken March 22, 2009



Positive proof that I arrived in Santiago once again; early morning at the end of my 5th camino the praza was almost vacant.

 

[davejsy]

Day 22 - I have to admit, Leon was the city I was most looking forward to. It's kind of the capital of my spiritual home of Montaña Leonesa. However, if the walk in was ugly then the walk out was even worse. But, you can always find something beautiful if you look in the right place, and this was the view behind me on my way in.

 

[FourSeasons]

CF - August 3, 2019
Near those train tracks before arriving to Hospital de Orbigo. I love these little notes of love and kindness along the way.

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
35 rua del Vilar
Café Casino

photo taken March 22, 2009



Over the years while nursing a drink watching the world go by I have happily sat for hours in the Cafe Casino which has existed since 1873. The old-fashioned decor (upgraded with WiFi) always reminded me of the old Algonquin in NYC when I was much younger.

 

[SabsP]

My first stop for the night on my first Camino in 2011.
I started in Roncesvalles and when I saw this board I imagined Zubiri being quite a big town. Ha!

 

[davejsy]

Day 23 -Pano on the way to my next stop after an amazing stay in one of my favourite Albergues on the trip Albergue El Pajar de Oncina somewhere after León

 

[Rowena]

April 26, 2022 Camino Invierno
The approach to A Pobra de Brollón

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
plaza de la Azabacheria.
Cathedral, NE corner, Santa Maria Antigua

photo taken December 8, 2012



I have arrived at the Cathedral as a pilgrim 10 times often via the plaza Azabacheria, named after jet jewelry craftsmen. At this simple northeast corner, not a major entrance, I would put my hand on the ancient stones and weep in thanksgiving.

 

[FourSeasons]

Santiago de Compostela - May 5, 2016
In the Cathedral, St James the Apostle on his white horse trampling the Mores.

 

[SabsP]

Contemplation in the morning. Pilgrim in front of the cathedral.
Santiago de Compostela 2011.

 

[Rowena]

April 27, 2022 Camino Invierno, Monforte de Lemos
View of the town from the top of the Monte de San Vicente del Pino, and the tower where the vassals of the Counts of Monforte came to pay homage to their lord. There’s a Parador up there too.

 

[davejsy]

Day 24 - ok so I know there are conflicting opinions on Cruz de Ferro, but for me this was a massive point of my Camino. It was another place that the Camino dictated I faced alone. Not only did I have my own stone to put down, but also those of others who were no longer on the same side of life. An Australian guy offered to take my photo in return for one of him and his wife. One of the stones I laid down was for my adopted father-in-law who had died of cancer. I swapped stories with the Australian guy. He and his wife were walking the Camino because his wife had recently overcome cancer, we both nodded at each other teary-eyed, aware of the energy that surrounded us. The Camino did these kind of things to me the whole way along.

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostelal
Cathedral
interior

photo taken December 8, 2012



After completing my 8th CF, I sat alone beneath the dome in the dim afternoon light offering silent thanks for all that had been which enabled these precious moments.

 

[Anne&Pat]

The way down to Zubiri! CF 11th May 2022.

 

[FourSeasons]

Santiago de Compostela - October 2013
Tarta de Santiago, what a beautiful display.

 

[Kirkie]

Leon, Cathedral Square, 2017. Day before beginning the Salvador.

 

[SabsP]

View ( Plaza Mayor aka Plaza de los Fueros ) from my hotelroom in Tudela. Camino del Ebro 2013.

 

[davejsy]

Day 25 - after giving myself a ridiculous shin-splint on the Cruz de Ferro day and greatly aggravating it on my descent toward Molinaseca it was time for the compression socks purchase at the Decathlon in Ponferrada under the watchful eye of doctor Sepia my Camino shadow (with bonus after application shot)


*edit and also another microfibre towel purchase you might spot, having left my other one at an Albergue several days previous - adapt and survive.

 

[Kirkie]

Day 25 - after giving myself a ridiculous shin-splint on the Cruz de Ferro day and greatly aggravating it on my descent toward Molinaseca it was time for the compression socks purchase at the Decathlon in Ponferrada under the watchful eye of doctor Sepia my Camino shadow (with bonus after application shot)
View attachment 165605View attachment 165606

*edit and also another microfibre towel purchase you might spot, having left my other one at an Albergue several days previous - adapt and survive.

Such a beautiful dog!

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostelal
Cathedral
Pilgrim Mass

photo taken December 9, 2012



All attending the crowded mid-day Pilgrim Mass stood shoulder to shoulder.

 

[FourSeasons]

del Norte - July 15, 2019
Below is Playa de Dicido on the way to Castro Urdiales.

 

[Rowena]

April 27, 2022 Camino Invierno, Monforte de Lemos
The view from my hotel room window. I admit to having posted this photo in a previous thread, but I like it so much!

 

[davejsy]

Day 26 - Sepia peers out from under the table at the wonderful little Albergue at Pradela, a definite "must stay there" for any next times. We ate roasted peppers, wild boar chorizo and chestnut cake

 

[SabsP]

Somewhere in Galicia. CF 2011.

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
Cathedral interior
alpha-omega disc

photo taken December 9, 2012




Amongst the multitude of splendor within the cathedral is this handsome disc displaying a four arm cross set with symbols of the sun/moon in the upper quadrants and alpha/omega in the lower quadrants.

 

[FourSeasons]

Santiago de Compostela - October 7, 2013
Praza das Praterias - Fonto dos Cabalos
Fountain of Horses

 

[Rowena]

April 28, 2022 Camino Invierno
A peaceful forest with a carpet of wildflowers embraced me after the long straight walk beside the highway leaving Monforte de Lemos.

 

[davejsy]

Day 27 - I know not everyone is a fan of these memorials along the Camino, but I am. I find them touching and a wonderful tribute to the person, that people cared enough not to let them be forgotten. It's also humbling to be on a path that has meant so much to others, and a reminder to never take any day for granted - least not those spent on this magical path.

This particular memorial was just before reaching O Cebreiro (and I'll put the translation underneath for anyone who is interested).


"Make every second of your existence count!"

Ricardo Bachini Jouglard *23/04/1956 †12/05/2021

Great husband, dear father, loving grandfather, this was your path through our lives! Adventurer, warrior, trailblazer and resilient, he made every second of his existence worth it. May the good times we had together perpetuate and remain here forever, like our love for you! We ask that every second of our existence, whatever yours was, we make it count!

With affection, from your wife and children,

Liz, Márcio, Thiago, Rafael and Laura.

A good journey to all of us!

October/21

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
cathedral model

December 2012



This cathedral model was displayed in a 2012 Consorcio de Santtago exhibit detailing aspects of the historic city's urban development. Do check whether such an exhibit may be current while you are in Santiago.

 

[Theatregal]

After arriving in Santiago de Compostela 8 times, I finally visited the beautiful Church of Santa María la Real del Sar. October 5, 2023

 

[Phoenix]

22 Sept 2023
CF, Carrión de los Condes

 

[FourSeasons]

CF - Trabadelo - August 8, 2019
Because we pilgrims love our french fries and Tortilla de Patata. That’s a lot of spuds.

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostelal
plaza de la Quintana
Cathedral, east facade
Puerta Santa/Holy Door

photo taken November 17, 2004



The 17th century Puerta Santa or Holy Door is opened only during a Holy Year, when
St James’ day, the 25th of July, occurs on a Sunday. 2004 was a Holy Year and the doorway was open during my 1st camino.

 

[FourSeasons]

CF - Renche? August 9, 2019
A sleepy little (tiny) village on the way to Samos. The only evidence of life, freshly harvested spuds.

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
Cathedral, interior
Puerta Santa /Holy Year door

photo taken December 3, 2011



Since this door is opened/used only during each Holy Year, a year when St James’ day, the 25th of July, occurs on a Sunday. it was not open in 2011 during my 7th camino.

 

[Kirkie]

Looking for something else, this appeared. While I am famously lacking in correct remembering, this strikes me as a true memory of approaching El Acebo. How did I ever manage to walk all those kilometres from Roncesvalles?
I don't hang on to the 'truth' of the myth, but it was a team effort! Together, me, my brain, my feet, and my walking companion, not to mention the source of the Camino... helped me to arrive!

 

[davejsy]

Day 28 - Sarria in-bound.



*Top tip - DO NOT ARRIVE IN SARRIA ON A FRIDAY!

 

[Rowena]

April 28, 2022 Camino Invierno
On the way to Torre Vilariño, a great place to stay half way between Monforte de Lemos and Chantada.

 

[Theatregal]

I always visit this tucked away corner of the Praza das Praterias. Santiago de Compostela. October 6, 2023.

 

[FourSeasons]

del Norte - July 14, 2019
Approaching/Entering Bilbao.

 

[FourSeasons]

I always visit this tucked away corner of the Praza das Praterias. Santiago de Compostela. October 6, 2023.

View attachment 165859

I recently saw a picture of this shell on social media and was going to ask anyone here if they had seen it. I’ll definitely look for it next time I’m in Santiago. God willing. Beautiful Ideated by Domingo de Andrade, the legend tells that she is in charge of holding the entire structure of the Cathedral and that without her it would come down.

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
Cathedral
pilgrim mass

photo taken December 4, 2011



Perhaps 15 pilgrims attended; we all stood/sat close to the altar. In the nave were a few other worshipers. A solitary nun sang the service; her voice rose pure and clear.

 

[Rowena]

April 29, 2022 Day 9 on the Camino Invierno
A cleverly crafted bench at Diomondi, at the top of the formidable descent to the Rio Miñho.

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
Praza de Fonseca, 5
Libredon Barbantes hostal



photos taken December 3, 2011

Glimpsing the towers from the ceiling window or hearing the great bells chime I felt like Quasimodo at Notre Dame!

 

[FourSeasons]

CF - Sept 2013 My first Camino.
Look at me carrying food as if I’m going to starve. Just call me PereGREENA.

 

[Rowena]

April 29, 2022 Camino Invierno, still day 9
The path into the river valley and out the other side was spectacular and arduous. Fortunately for me the cafe beside the river at Belesar was open and I was able to fortify myself for the climb up to Chantada.

 

[Reija]

My daughter taking a break somewhere near Contamine-Sarzin on Via Gebennensis in May 2022. The bench (le Banc du Pèlerin) had been put there in 2016, but the colors of it acted as a very actual reminder to pray for peace in Ukraine.

 

[SabsP]

Misty Rioja. Approaching Najera. 2011.

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
praza da Immaculada
Hospederia San Martin Pinario

photo taken December 9, 2011



After walking to Finisterre I bused back to Santiago and by serendipity obtained this quite sybaritic room during a sleet storm.

 

[Theatregal]

Camino Frances, September 10, 2023.

Between Villatuerta and Estella is the 10th century Ermita de San Miguel, standing strong surrounded by a beautiful grove of olive trees. Inside on a stone altar, amid the photos, notes, stones and dried olives, was a sweet sketch of the hermitage.

 

[Reija]

Saint-Julien-Chapteuil, slightly off the route but worth the extra steps. My last Camino day before reaching Le Puy and going home. Via Gebennensis July 2023.

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
praza da Immaculada
Hospederia San Martin Pinario

desayuno/breakfast

photo taken December 9, 2013



Eating desayuno/breakfast in this 16th c. monastic space was a treat!

 

[FourSeasons]

Santiago de Compostela - August 19, 2019
Ahhhhh - my 3rd Camino staying here. Walking into San Martin Pinario feels so good. The air is cool, peaceful and welcoming. Love, Love, Love.

 

[Theatregal]

Beautiful light in the quiet cool interior of the Ermita Nuestra Señora del Socorro in Población de Campos. Camino Frances. September 23, 2013.

 

[Rowena]

April 29, 2022 Camino Invierno
Looking back at the cafe beside the rio Miñho as I began the climb up the other side of the valley.

 

[SabsP]

Embalse de la Grajera, between Logroño and Navarrete. April 2013.

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
Praza da Acibecharía

photo taken December 10, 2013



When leaving Santiago de Compostela
in the pre dawn rain I silently vowed to return on foot again the next year.

 

[FourSeasons]

Santiago de Compostela - August 20, 2019
All things chocolate at
Late & Late Chocolate

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
Praza da Inmaculada

photo taken December 7, 2014



My 10th and last camino ended as I walked up the timeless hill weary yet thrilled; after 56 days always carrying my full pack I was sincerely thankful to be here again.

 

[Rowena]

April 30, 2022 Camino Invierno, day 10, Chantada to Rodeiro
Peto de Animas, on the outskirts of Chantada

 

[mspath]

Santiago de Compostela
Praza da Quintana

photo taken December 8, 2014



Brilliant winter sunshine lit the praza on a cold December day the last morning I was there. ...Whatever one believes, however one sees this world, it is impossible not to be touched and moved in this city ...May it always be so.

 

[mspath]

Camino Finisterre
photo taken December 5, 2011



Starting towards Finisterre in 2011 after crossing the tiny pedestrian bridge over the Sarela river at Ponte Sarela a narrow dirt path began at this rather ad hoc gate.

 

[FourSeasons]

CF - Morning of July 21, 2019
Leaving Carrion de Los Condos.

 

[Rowena]

April 30, 2022 Camino Invierno, day 10
On the way up Monte Faro, between Chantada and Rodeiro.

 

[mspath]

Camino Finisterre
Ponte Maceira

photo taken December 5, 2011



Beneath the old stone bridge the Tambre river moved swiftly: crossing was rather frightening.

 

[Theatregal]

Burgos. Camino Frances. September 15, 2023. This time, I stayed in Burgos for two nights and enjoyed having a full day to explore.

 

[FourSeasons]

CF - April 22, 1016
Early morning with Los Arcos and another sunrise behind us.

 

[Rowena]

April 30, 2022 Camino Invierno, day 10
Soon after reaching the peak of Monte Faro, I was level with the wind turbines. It was still a long way to Rodeiro at this point. Quite the challenging day!

 

[mspath]

Camino Finistere
Negreira
dawn

photo taken March 30, 2007



"Red sky in the morning, sailors take warning"
Indeed it rained heavily all day as I splashed onward towards the sea.

 

[FourSeasons]

CF - September 22, 2013
After Sahagun I went right, down the old Roman Road. Ouch Ahead, a lovely village awaits with a tiny tienda that had everything a pilgrim could want/need and more. Near by restaurant, I had a fabulous dinner of eggs and bacon with some Aussies. Funny how these things remain etched in our memory.

 

[mspath]

Camino Finisterre
Vilaserio

December 6, 2011



After walking through unceasing cold rain I stayed at the newly built private Albergue O Rueiro run by the only open bar/resto in December. Hot water and many blankets were offered but no heat as yet! Nevertheless as the only pilgrim wearing my wooly hat and winter tenue de soirée/evening attire I slept chilled but not frozen for 15 hours!

 

[Rowena]

April 30, 2022 Camino Invierno
Hostal Carpenteiras, Rodeiro
Simple, delicious, and so fresh!

 

[mspath]

Camino Finisterre
Olveiroa
Xunta albergue

photo taken March 30, 2007



Adjacent stone buildings have been handsomely repurposed; a narrow path separated dining/commons room and dorms.

 

[FourSeasons]

del Norte - July 10, 2019
Through the woods we go on the way to Markina-Xemein.

 

[Takahiwai]

Approaching Pancorbo - Via de Bayona 2024

 

[Rowena]

May 1, 2022 Camino Invierno, day 11
Entering Lalin

 

[Theatregal]

Santiago de Compostela. October 5, 2023

While waiting to take the rooftop tour of the cathedral, we were invited to view a beautiful exhibit by the Cuban artist David Planas.

 

[mspath]

Camino Finisterre
towards Cée
sunrise near Hospital

photo taken December 3, 2010



The sunrise en route was splendid; all was good to go.

 

[FourSeasons]

del Norte - July 9, 2019
Deba: I made it before they put up the Completo sign Grateful for a bed however I barely rested. It was hot and noisy. The next day was one of my hardest days ever.

 

[mspath]

Camino Finisterre
towards Cée
rio Hospital

photo taken December 8, 2011



A footbridge crossed the rio Hospital; looking at the cold river water I was glad that the bridge was sturdy and new! The river and nearby hamlet are named for a pilgrim hostel, which probably had existed.

 

[FourSeasons]

del Norte - July 10, 2019
After leaving Deba I stopped to look back at the sea. Then continue marching on to Markina-Xemein. It was a long, hot day with two wrong turns. It was one heck of a stage. Beautiful but tough and on next to nothing sleep from the night in Deba.

 

[Rowena]

May1, 2022 Camino Invierno, Lalin
Lalin is known for its pork products. I ordered something I think was called zorza at the restaurant. It was hard to identify, but I supposed it was cooked ground pork.

 

[SabsP]

This day, seven years ago. Towards Reliegos.
Hail coming and bitter cold.

 

[Theatregal]

The lounge and kitchen of the Albergue de Peregrinos San Javier in Astorga. September 28, 2023.

 

[mspath]

Camino Finisterre/Muxia
towards Cée

photo taken December 8, 2011



The routes to Muxia and Finisterre split at the juncture DP 3404/ DP 2302. On the right is DP 3404 to Muxia; on the left DP 2302 towards Finisterre.



Hidden in the wood on a dirt path off DP 2302 this giant rock with petroglyphs seemed magical and a bit threatening as if it might erupt.

 

[SabsP]

This day, seven years ago.
Reliegos.

 

[mspath]

Camino Finistere
towards Cée

photo taken December 8, 2011



From a hilltop near Cée could be glimpsed the silvery Atlantic ocean and Finisterra in the far distance. What excitement medieval pilgrims must have felt when they first saw that sea!

 

[FourSeasons]

del Norte - July 10, 2019
Still on the way to Markina. I came across this little pony. Is she pregnant? Love her hair, bangs and all.

 

[Rowena]

May 2, 2022 Camino Invierno
The path crosses the Rio Deza on the Ponte Taboada, which dates back to the year 912, between Lalin and Silleda.

 

[SabsP]

Solemnity during Semana Santa 2016.
That year I walked a mini Camino from Santiago to Finisterre.