On this date in September...

[trecile]

Here's the thread to post pictures, musings, etc. for any dates in September from any year, and for any Camino route.

When you respond, please mention the date, route you were on and where you walked (or rested) that day. Thanks!

 

[trecile]

I was lucky enough to do two Caminos in 2019. The first was in May-June, and was a combination of the Francés, Salvador, Norte and Finisterre Caminos.
Then in September I did my "Bonus" Camino Portuguese from Porto.
On September 7, 2019 I was in Barcelos.

 

[ranthr]

On this day in 2014I went from Redondela to Pontevedra and ended up in a middle age festival. Stayed in the parador and they sérved me a middleage meny on pottery from the age. The pictures are from the mercado in the town square.

 

[lt56ny]

In 2015 I was a about a week or 10 days out of Le Puy on my way to Santiago. It was not as hot as I thought it would be and it was very hilly but really beautiful. Still had about 2 months of walking ahead of me.

 

[nycwalking]

In 2001, I started in Roncesvalles, walked to about 100kms shy of Santiago, I ran out of time, then boarded train to Santiago to pick up my Compostela.

Well, no credential for me. I didn’t know you had to walk last 100kms.

I changed flight, took train to Sarria and walked back.

As a result, on this date, in 2001, I was in Portomarin at albergue shown in Efren Gonzalez’s video about CF.

In 2002, I was in Trinidad Del Arre. There was beer in vending machines, a thong wearing Portuguese guy flirting with all the girls, and that night we pilgrims were awakened with a midnight scream of terror via a peregrina’s nightmare.

 

[Saint Mike II]

Wow - how time flies. On this day in 2015 I cycled from Los Arcos to Navarrete. I followed the highway N120 as far as Viana and then picked up the walkers camino. Navigating through Logrono was more than a hassle but I did find a great cafe that did a 2/3 course menu de dia (soup and a made to order bocodilo and coffee or wine - I think chose juice). From there is was onward to Navarrete where I was lucky to get the last bed at Navarrete Centro albergue. They let me keep my bike inside overnight. I think I waited until 8.30 am before leaving and stopped at Ventosa for coffee and toast.. Cheers

 

[Theatregal]

On this day in 2012 I was on the Route Napoleón between Orrison and Roncevalles.

 

[Former member 90479]

Today a year ago exactly at this time I was on my way to alto de perdon. This picture shows leaving Pamplona behind me on my way up. I just was writing to a camino friend who I net on my way up there. Wonderful times...

 

[Tulle]

On this day in 2017 I started from Ferrol to walk Camino Ingles alone. I had never walked alone before, so it was exciting! It was my 75th birthday so I celebrated on Cafe Oslo before I started A nice place for a Norwegian

 

[Sue127]

What wonderful and interesting memories

 

[Richmond Gardner]

On this date last year, I arrived in Santiago to finish the Primitivo. These two women, were my companions for the last few days. It was a wonderful journey over the mountains.
on a previous Camino , I had such a good meal at Casa Marcelo, I was determined to go back. It is a busy place just downhill from the Cathedral. Anyway, someone saw me in line and said “is there some special thing about this restaurant?...”
Another fine meal was had, to complete the day!
Here is Marcelo at work

 

[Anik2001]

On this date in 2017, I was back at work after my summer camino, saying it was a once in a lifetime experience. Boy was I wrong! A few weeks later, I started planning my second camino (which was delayed because of Covid)...

 

[SabsP]

In 2015 on this day I was enjoying my last day in Santiago de Compostela after finishing the Portugues.

 

[Elle Bieling]

My best memory from 2019 was walking into Salamanca on the VdlP, across the medieval bridge and seeing the magnitude of the Cathedral there! Fabulous!

 

[Aidan21]

Merida, VdlP, September 2018

 

[lt56ny]

My best memory from 2019 was walking into Salamanca on the VdlP, across the medieval bridge and seeing the magnitude of the Cathedral there! Fabulous!

View attachment 82530

On this date today I am wishing with hope and praying for the day I can walk out of Sevilla and look forward to walking into Salamanca in about 3 1/2 weeks after I leave Sevilla. I am sure Salamanca is lovely and hopefully I can make it a rest day if I am able to.

 

[tpmchugh]

On 7th September, 2013 I was on my very first camino Frances passing thru Rabe. For some reason I took no pics in Hornillos where I spent the night. Then in 2016, I was on my third Frances in Logroño. I had walked my second in Spring 2015 and had no intentions of walking again in 2016. However, the Holy Father had declared a Holy Year of Mercy for 2016 so I reckoned it would be rude to turn down his offer of walking from Holy Door to Holy Door and finally the Door of Mercy in Santiago. Being in my late sixties at the time, I just had to do it in case I was not fit to do the camino in the Jacobean year of 2021. As it is, I think I am fit enough to go next April but Covid may put an end to that dream. Good job I went in 2016.
First photo is Rabé 2013 and second is Logroño 2016

 

[Jenyat53]

On this day in 2013 my daughter and I walked from Roncesvalles to Zubiri with some fabulous company. The second day of an addiction that has grown and seen me walk 6 more caminos I look forward to several more as these crazy times abate.

 

[TaijiPilgrim]

On this day in 2011, I was on my very first camino from Leon to Santiago. We arrived about 9am in Ponferrada and discovered the city was in the midst of a week long fiesta. There was an arts and craft show on the road from the basilica to the castle where the tourist information office was supposed to be located. The tents and booths hid the office and we stopped at a booth to ask the location. Nacho, a very tall Spaniard, directed us in perfect English! He also took us to breakfast and called to reserve beds for us at a private albergue in Villafranca de Bierzo. One of many camino angels on our way. And, because it was Wednesday, the Knights Templar castle was free admission!

 

[trecile]

September 7, 2016. I was on my very first Camino walking from Terradillos de los Templarios to El Burgo Ranero.
I passed through the "halfway point" in Sahagún.

 

[jimmyc]

On this day last year my son and I walked from Santa Marta de Tera on the Sanabres Camino to Villar de Farfon where we stayed at a tiny albergue which I would rate as the best in all of Spain.
Six comfortable bed with lovely sheets and pillows and a beautiful bathroom. It is run by the lovely Dorothea who provided us with food to cook for our meals and rang ahead to book accommodation for us on our next leg of our journey. All this for a donation.

 

[nycwalking]

On this day 2001, I spent the night in the municipal albergue in Palas De Rei. The refugio, that’s what we called albergues, was stifling hot that night with all the windows shut tight.

I 2002, I was at Maribel’s private refugio with the garden in Cizur Menor about 4 kilometers west of Pamplona. Holly from Switzerland’s backpack had been stolen in Pamplona. She got drunk and told me during medieval times she had been a robber on the camino and her present day’s pack’s theft was retribution.

After Holly’s past reminiscing, I had an excellent lunch with the three Jesuit priests from the USA I’d met at dinner in Roncesvalles.

 

[trecile]

On this day 2001, I spent the night in the municipal albergue in Palas De Rei. The refugio, that’s what we called albergues, was stifling hot that night with all the windows shut tight.

I 2002, I was at Maribel’s private refugio with the garden in Cizur Menor about 4 kilometers west of Pamplona. Holly from Switzerland’s backpack had been stolen in Pamplona. She got drunk and told me during medieval times she had been a robber on the camino and her present day’s pack’s theft was retribution.

After Holly’s past reminiscing, I had an excellent lunch with the three Jesuit priests from the USA I’d met at dinner in Roncesvalles.

View attachment 82576View attachment 82577

I loved Maribel's albergue and gardens. Stayed there during San Fermín in 2017.

 

[nycwalking]

I loved Maribel's albergue and gardens. Stayed there during San Fermín in 2017.

Oh my!

Were you able to see running of the bulls?

 

[trecile]

Oh my!

Were you able to see running of the bulls?

Just the messy aftermath as we walked through Pamplona.
There was all kinds of activity in the streets - bands, parades, and everyone dressed in white and red.

 

[MarkyD]

Here's the thread to post pictures, musings, etc. for any dates in September from any year, and for any Camino route.

When you respond, please mention the date, route you were on and where you walked (or rested) that day. Thanks!

I'm a day late to the party, but here are some memories from my first Camino, the Francés, in 2018. On 7th September 2018 I walked from Estella to Torres del Rio. Below are the two pages I wrote in my "Camino Diary"

 

[MarkyD]

September 7, 2016. I was on my very first Camino walking from Terradillos de los Templarios to El Burgo Ranero.
I passed through the "halfway point" in Sahagún.View attachment 82537

Somehow I missed the path to this point, so ended up entering the town via the road. Oh well, I'll just have to go back and do it all over again

 

[Turga]

On this day in 2017 I walked from A Rúa and into Santiago. It was a clear and sunny day and the Praza do Obradoiro was swarming with pilgrims and tourists when I arrived by early afternoon. It was my first visit to Santiago and I spend 3 days in the city doing “pilgrim stuff” (pilgrim’s mass, visit to the crypt, Pilgrim’s Office for Compostela, tour of the Cathedral, etc.) and then just drifting around.

I vividly remember how strange it felt waking up the first morning in Santiago and realizing, that I should not dress in walking clothes, pack the backpack and walk out on the road in the early morning light.



The next picture is from some long parade in the city, very colorful and very noisy

 

[tpmchugh]

On this day 2013 I was between Hornillos and Hontanas. I was just a few days in having started at Burgos for the second part of my first camino. First part was from Pamplona to Burgos earlier in the year taking in the celebrations for SemanaSanta. On this day 2016 I was entering Navarette, one of my favourite towns. A Dutch lady I had been walking with walked on to the next town but unfortunately had to stop with problems in her legs. She always had to do a little too much unfortunately

 

[rappahannock_rev]

September 8, 2012: I was enjoying the Festival de los Tres Burgos in Pamplona. (Nobody was wearing a mask!) ... That day I fell in love with Pamplona, still my favorite place on earth.



And I enjoyed a chat with the Forum's Anniesantiago (below, left)

 

[nycwalking]

In 2001, I walked to Arzua.

In 2002, I had my pack transported to the albergue in Puente de Reina. The albergue sat on a high hill. The walk around town was nice. Spent a bit more time with those Jesuits from USA.

 

[Canada Wanders]

Sept. 5 2015 my wife and I went out on CF:

 

[Canada Wanders]

And Sept 2018, CP:

 

[TA Zitnak]

Today a year ago exactly at this time I was on my way to alto de perdon. This picture shows leaving Pamplona behind me on my way up. I just was writing to a camino friend who I net on my way up there. Wonderful times...

My husband and I also walked Sept 9 2019 from Pamplona, to Muruzabal. we must have passed each other sometime along the way!

 

[Latecomer]

Between Almadén de la Plata and El Real de la Jara on the Via de la Plata, 9 September 2015.

 

[Former member 90479]

My husband and I also walked Sept 9 2019 from Pamplona, to Muruzabal. we must have passed each other sometime along the way!

Ohhhhhh sooooo cool! We probably did I miss the camino. What a wonderful time.

 

[trecile]

Last year on 9 September I crossed from Valença to Tui. I loved Portugal, but was happy to say goodbye to those cobblestones!

 

[Theatregal]

September 9, 2012 - Walking between Trinidad de Arre and Obanos.

 

[tpmchugh]

Another day, another picture. September 9th 2016 was hot. Locals told me that it was hotter than July and here was me doing it in September expecting temperatures I would be more familiar with. I dont have much luck with the weather. 2013 more snow than usual in March, 2015, a heatwave in April. 2016 hotter than hades in September and 2018, flooded rivers in April, one of which I had to be fished out of. September 2013 was great except for the rain for two days after Sarria which turned trails into streams. But, you know what, I loved every freezing, hot, windy and wet minute of it. So pic 1 is Castrojeriz 2013 and pic two on the trail to Estella 2016,,,ooops,, I typed Estella when I should have typed Najera

 

[David Tallan]

On this day in 2014I went from Redondela to Pontevedra and ended up in a middle age festival. Stayed in the parador and they sérved me a middleage meny on pottery from the age. The pictures are from the mercado in the town square.

Interesting. I'm not sure how medieval that corn (maize) is, considering it's a New World food. While it was introduced at the end of the 15th century, it doesn't seem to have become popular in norther Spain until the 17th century. I guess it depends on when you consider the middle ages ending.

[This is what you get when you put these photos in front of someone whose hobby is medieval culinary history, as you can see from the photo of my bookshelves.]

 

[RJM]

On this date in 2015 I was on the Frances and stayed in Acebo that night.

 

[nycwalking]

Today, September 9, 2001, I walked into Santiago and received my Compostela this time; my second time in Santiago after initially arriving September 3RD, sans walking last 100k; and not getting the credential. I walked CF: Roncesvalles to Santiago.

The couple in pic and I, played tortiose and the hare. They’d zoom past me, sit and rest, while I slowly strolled on by.

I roamed the streets with my mom high as a kite due to completion of CF and Compostela in hand. She lead me to a place where my credential was laminated. We rode the little white tour train around Santiago, took a bus to the mall, had fun.

We stayed at Barbantes hostel a few steps from Cathedral. Our room’s balcony had a patio overlooking the street. The musicians in pic played right outside our room.

Mom and I attended the pilgrim’s mass with the swinging incense.

We enjoyed our first mother/daughter trip since we visited Mexico when I was eleven or so.

 

[trecile]

September 10th 2016 - As I was leaving León in the early morning I came across this gentleman near the cathedral painting the arrows that guide us.

 

[tpmchugh]

September 10th already. Seems like only yesterday rather than 5 months, I had planned to be in Santiago. But in 2013 I was on a gentle stroll up Mostelares. Took me twice as long as everyone else lol. 2016, I was heading for Cirueña. It has to be the strangest town on the Camino. Streets of empty houses and apartment blocks but with a fancy golf course.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

I was heading for Cirueña. It has to be the strangest town on the Camino. Streets of empty houses and apartment blocks but with a fancy golf course.

I can never remember that town's name as I gave it a nickname ... Chernobyl.

 

[tpmchugh]

September 11th. 2016, just past Snto Domingo, I met two guys with cuddly bears walking for charity. Only the picture can describe it lol. 2013 arriving Fromista. Stayed in the albergue by the railroad tracks, Canal de Castilla. A couple of years ago, there was a major fire in this albergue. Does anyone know if it is still operating. It looked pretty badly damaged in the photos in the papers

 

[Richmond Gardner]

I can never remember that town's name as I gave it a nickname ... Chernobyl.

That’s because there is no there, there!

 

[nycwalking]

On this day 9/11, I with my mom, was standing on the train platform in Santiago. We were both overjoyed at how much fun we’d had.

I walked over to concession stand, saw a Milky Way bar, beamed at my luck. Hadn’t seen one in over thirty days bought it. The seller was so subdued, I wondered.

Train came, we boarded on way to A Coruña, where we’d change trains for overnight haul to Barcelona.

While sitting in our compartment in A Coruña the conductor overheard us talking. He approached and began to tell us about the bad thing in NYC. When, I am tired, my Spanish goes out the window. Frustrated the conductor held up one hand and said, “avión”, with the other “edificio”, then he flew the avión into the edificio.

He directed us inside station to a bar where we could quickly watch the recap. A British woman was next to TV crying and screaming, “they are gone, the towers are gone”. I told her to keep quiet they’re right there in front of you, then the implosion was replayed. Now, I knew why the Milky Way seller in Santiago was so quiet. As, I was buying my candy this had just transpired.

You know when I left the pilgrim’s office 9/3 sans credential. I said I will finish this pilgrimage and I prayed everyday from Sarria back to Santiago for the Universe not to allow anything: war, madness, accidents to come between me and my Compostela.

My prayer was answered; but I was furious

My Compostela was in hand 9/9, but my backyard had exploded, I was living in NYC at that time.

If not for the camino, only the Universe knows how I might of fared had I been in NYC on that day, but I’d been delayed by Compostela pursuit.

9/11/02, I was in Logroño. I returned to both walk again then volunteer as a hospitalera: a thank you to the camino.

 

[Canada Wanders]

Thanks for your post nyc- today I am remembering the 'where I was/what I was doing' when this all happened.
I was still in the Army, and preparing for the day, and someone had the tv on in the ready room. I saw the CNN coverage of the first strike, along with the live footage showing the second plane...and all I could think was "someone just turned their country into a parking lot".
Memories like these are the things the Camino helped me sort out in my head.

 

[psheehan]

On this day 11th September in 2005 I began my first Camino... staying in the previous Albergue in Roncesvalles... amazed at the one big room for all the pilgrims.

 

[VNwalking]

Train came, we boarded on way to A Coruña, where we’d change trains for overnight haul to Barcelona.

@nycwalking, did you have trouble getting home? Flights in the US were shut down for days after that.
What a story. Your hard-headedness about getting that compostella saved you from potentially being in harm's way at home.

 

[tpmchugh]

Now its September 12th. 2016, I turned over on my ankle on the way out of Granon in the dark of early morning. By the time I got to Redicilla, I could barely walk. Fearing I would do more damage and not be able to make the Holy Doors in Burgos, Leon and Santiago, I decided to bus to Burgos. Fortunately, the swelling went down overnight. 2013 was less dramatic. A very hot dusty walk from Fromista to Carrion. So tired I just stopped at first albergue, Santa Clara. Now that was a good idea. The nuns had left out trays of food in the kitchen for the pilgrims. Vegetables, fruit, pastries and bread. Not only did we make up good dinners but we allleft next morning with apples oranges and pastry to help along the way. Loved that albergue

 

[Canche]

I was lucky enough to do two Caminos in 2019. The first was in May-June, and was a combination of the Francés, Salvador, Norte and Finisterre Caminos.
Then in September I did my "Bonus" Camino Portuguese from Porto.
On September 7, 2019 I was in Barcelos.View attachment 82452

Lucky you.

 

[nycwalking]

On this date 2001, I had finished the CF.

My mom and I were in a hotel in Barcelona. We ventured out a bit; but we were both spent from the WTC attack juxtaposed against our marvelous time in Spain.

At the hotel, it took about five hours to get a call stateside. Every attempt recording said, “ocupado, ocupado” hour after hour. Finally, I got through to my dad in Los Angeles, Ca. He kept saying, “the camino saved your life”.

On this date 9/12/02, I was in Najera, the day was most uneventful. The year prior I soaked my feet by the river near the albergue.

 

[Richard Smith]

On this day in 2016, leaving Pamplona on the CF, only pilgrims on the street this early.

 

[Canada Wanders]

Wow! Flashback!

 

[4 Eyes]

2014 on Sept 13, a warm day, I was in Ciruena, a place disliked by many. When I came to it I disliked it immediately too. However, just after passing the deserted development, turning off the camino to the left there is the old village, the original Ciruena. Near there I stayed at the Casa Victoria. This was before Casa Victoria expanded to their new building closer to the camino. At the old Casa Victoria, I was greeted by Victoria with a cold 1 and a 1/2 liter bottle of water. She kept pouring for me until I gratefully finished the entire liter and a half. Then she asked me if I would like to have dinner and breakfast there. I told her yes. She took me to a good size attic room with 6 bunks and two twin beds, a patio and and a fabulous bathroom with a view into the hills. I shared that bed room with 4 others. That evening we had a communal multi course dinner with 10 pilgrims cooked by Victoria. It was among the best food I have ever had on any Camino. She kept asking if we wanted more. She told us the vegetables were from her garden. She plucked a gigantic heirloom tomato to show us, and promptly cut it up for us to eat. She did my laundry for me and hung them to dry in her garage since it was raining. The next morning she served breakfast, and asked me if that was enough, whether I would like her to make me a tortilla in addition. Since then I have walked every year on different routes until this year of the Covid. I have stayed in many places, some I hardly remember. I however will always remember Casa Victoria and the warmth and kindness of Victoria, and the old village. The awful development with the golf course cannot ruin Ciruena for me. For me Victoria has resurrected Ciruena, and made it a place of beauty.

 

[nycwalking]

@nycwalking, did you have trouble getting home? Flights in the US were shut down for days after that.
What a story. Your hard-headedness about getting that compostella saved you from potentially being in harm's way at home.

On this day 9/13/01, my mom and I flew Barcelona to London.

At airport in Barcelona we were put through two security checks: one after checking in, the second was at the gate just prior to boarding plane. At the plane metal detectors were run over our bodies and carry-ons searched.

When the plane landed at Heathrow we stepped into an alternate universe wholly different from the Heathrow of just a month or so prior.

The police, the bobbies, had guns: big, fat AR weapons.

Wall to wall people filled the airport. They were everywhere, in check-in lines, sprawled on floors, benches, and seats. Mom and I found two empty benches in which to park and figure out next step.

A USA Embassy employee heard our accents beckoned us to follow. We with quite a few Americans boarded a bus which took us to Surrey. Mom and me were hosted for three days by an American family.

We toured London, took the London Eye, at Waterloo station observed a minute of silence with everyone present. We were seated at McDonald’s and were surprised at the number of folks crying for America. The minute folks in London heard our accents they’d apologize, or express empathy, or their desire to shorten vacations and return to homes in all parts of the world.

Every stranded day, I would phone airline for flight information. Finally, on 9/16/01, a cab arrived in Surrey dropping off the father who’d been stranded in Canada and taking my mom and I to Heathrow.

The armed police were still there as were so many stranded folks.

We were so blessed to safe, warm, and comfortable while stranded for three days.

But, I pray never to experience that kind of moment again.

 

[tpmchugh]

2016 on this day I was leaving Burgos on the park path used in 'The Way'. My ankle was still a bit sore so Rabé was as far as I went. Met a young Australian girl as we waited for the albergue to open. I would meet her every now and then until close to the finish then we parted and never met again. Still keep in touch via facebook to this day. 2013 I was walking out of Carrion after having breakfast with a local who had translated at Mass the night before. He told me to always start early about 6:30 am. Walk until lunch time about 1pm or 2 at the latest and stop at the first albergue I came to. That was his way and he said he never had any trouble getting a bed. It was advice I stuck to over the years. Just before Calzadilla I saw a sign painted on the wall of the rest area that echoed his advice and became the title of my first book. Walk With The Sun Till Ur Shadow Disappears. Also, on that trail, I took the picture that became the cover of my book. Also on this day I found an albergue with a swimming pool, what a luxury

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I however will always remember Casa Victoria

I stayed at Albergue Victoria in Ciruena in April 2017(not September). I remember it well. My family of four had our own room and private bath. A lovely communal dinner was served...would this be the same place as Casa Victoria?

 

[tpmchugh]

September 14th 2013 I walked to Sahagun. This last couple of days, I have walked on and off with a Scot who is pushing his two kids in a pram. He commented on how he missed his porridge so I gave him two packets I had left. Entering SanNicolás there was a building site with a very unusual roadsign. No pooping. I reckon every pilgrim passing took a photo and you can see mine below. I met a coule of veteran pilgrims who said the walk into Leon was horrible and they were taking the train next morning. They invited me to join them which I did. Felt a bit guilty taking the train but it was to prove to be one of the best decisions I made on this camino. Same day 2016, I walked from Rabé, my goal being Castrojeriz. I dont know why but when I came to the turn off for San Bol, I just had to go there. It was very cold for that time of year and it was freezing in the albergue but it was well worth stopping there. By the way, if you are starting before dawn, take the time to stop and look back. Sunrises can be spectacular. Below is my sunrise on the meseta leaving Rabé

 

[Tulle]

On this date in 2018 I was in Oviedo ready to start Camino Primitivo. I had this lunch, suitable for an abuela!

 

[thistleamy]

I was lucky enough to do two Caminos in 2019. The first was in May-June, and was a combination of the Francés, Salvador, Norte and Finisterre Caminos.
Then in September I did my "Bonus" Camino Portuguese from Porto.
On September 7, 2019 I was in Barcelos.View attachment 82452

I loved Barcelos! I see you are from Southern Oregon - I hope you are safe with all these fires. I live outside Portland and with air quality its tough. not to be able to get out for my Camino training walks.

 

[trecile]

I loved Barcelos! I see you are from Southern Oregon - I hope you are safe with all these fires. I live outside Portland and with air quality its tough. not to be able to get out for my Camino training walks.

The big fire that destroyed over 600 homes was just about 5 miles from my home. Fortunately, we haven't been in the evacuation zone, but I have several friends who had to evacuate. Thankfully, none lost their homes.
Yeah, the air quality is awful. I'm really missing my daily walks.

 

[Nigel Clark]

On the 14th September last year I left Burgos and much enjoyed walking by the side of the canal on the way into Fromista . I carried on to Villarmentero de Campos where I would stay the night at the Alberque Amanecer. I had also stayed here in 2017 and was pleased to see that the donkey , geese and other assorted animals were still there. I had dinner with my Belgian friend Dirk who had walked from his home in Belgium and had now completed 87 days , one of those amazing pilgrims you encounter along the way. Happy days!!

 

[SioCamino]

This day last year I was walking the camino sanabres, finishing off my VDLP finally. A lovely walk in glorious September sunshine finishing up at Casa Leiras where the lemon tree was. Very idyllic.

 

[rappahannock_rev]

Sept 14, 2015: Posed for the iconic CF 'Solitary Tree' photo on the Alto de Matamulos, approaching Hornillos.....

 

[Isobeljc]

On the this day, the 15th in 2019 we were very excited.
The bus stopped and we wondered why the locals were looking at us. It finally dawned on us that the driver was saying Somport.
Our first day on the Aragones.
A pic taken by the friendly Policia, remembering how good a cafe con leche and tortilla is and we were off.

 

[wjohnk]

On this day in 2019 we arrived at Santiago on our first Camino, having started at Baiona. We were too late to get Compostelas and had to wait till the next day for them.

 

[roamingpaddy]

On this day 2017 I was kissing a lady at a famous camino location,great memories .

 

[JohnLloyd]

On this day in 2018, on my first Camino.

 

[JLWV]

Last year, 2019, at this date, the mediterranean area of Spain was suffering a DANA (Aislated Low in High Level) which affected very seriously our Camino de Levante.
Régis, a French pilgrim, was blocked 3 days in Mogente/Moixent as the way was cutted.
The following week, Dimitri, from Canada could pass, through a damnified way.
Now the way is in good state, but Mr Covid is here!

Régis a few days later

This one from Dimitri

 

[Saint Mike II]

Hola -gee more "dates to recall"!! On the 13 September 2015 I stayed with those wonderful sisters of Espiritu Santo. I was on the bike - it rained the last 10 km into Carrion de los Condes. I had not eaten a real lunch back in Fromista - so after a shower I found that the hotel (maybe the La Corte??) was still serving lunch. This was my first experience with the garlic soup - really warmed me up, followed by roast chicken and a bottle for red.I doubt I will ever forget the night - we had the snorer from hell. Even with ear plugs and my head under the pillow I could still hear him. Fortunately he rose early (5.30) and left so we had about 90 mins of peace. The following night (14 Sept) I was the guest of Rebekah and Paddy at Peaceable Kingdom. A great night with a vegetable curry, a shared bottle of red and some lively discussion about the 2016 US elections, still more than a year off. Best of all my fellow room mate did not snore. The next day (15 Sept) the rain and wind returned with a vengeance, around 50-80km making cycling a no option so it was the train to Leon and three nights in the San Marcos Parador. Here we received the saddest news that the missing pilgrim had been found dead. A night of reflection followed.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I doubt I will ever forget the night - we had the snorer from hell. Even with ear plugs and my head under the pillow I could still hear him.

I have not walked in the fall season so have no contributions to this thread. However, I had a chuckle from this comment as it made me recall my "snorer from hell" in Carrion de Los Condo in 2017. It permeated the large room of only about ten single beds and kept me awake even with good earplugs. The next morning I thought I hoped I never stayed at the same albergue with him again...sure enough, the very next night in a huge albergue, he was not only in the same one, but his bed was right next to mine!

 

[tpmchugh]

Today is a sad day. 15th September 2013 I choose to take the train from Sahagun to Leon. With an Irish friend, Antoinette, I attended Mass in the cathedral. She decided to go find an albergue but I was feeling a bit guilty about getting the train so I choose to walk on. What a miserable walk it is from Leon to Virgen del Camino. As I walked up the garden towards the albergue door, I heard a voice shout that it did not open until 1 o'clock. That voice was Mees van der Sluijs from the Netherlands. He was to become a great friend both on the camino and afterwards. Sadly he passed away back in February. I will never forget him. The world is a lesser place without him. I include a photo of him even though it was taken some days later, I am so glad I took that train as otherwise, our paths would not have crossed.
2016, I walked to Castrojeriz from San Bol. Stopped off at San Anton as I had stayed there the year before and had one of the greatest nights ever

 

[rappahannock_rev]

Sept 15, 2015: Checking into the Albergue San Anton:

 

[trecile]

I walked into Santiago for the fifth time last year on September 15th after walking from Porto.




In 2018 I had to abandon my Camino del Norte in Vilalba because of really bad shin splints (brought on by my own stupidity), so I wasn't able to walk into Santiago.
But I made up for it last year by walking into Santiago three times! The first was in June 20th at the end of my combo Francés/Salvador/Norte Camino. Then I bussed taxied back to Gonzar to walk a few days on the Francés to walk with my friend @Oregon's Mark, and we walked into Santiago together on June 24th.

 

[forwardwego]

I walked into Santiago for the fifth time last year on September 15th after walking from Porto.

View attachment 83070


In 2018 I had to abandon my Camino del Norte in Vilalba because of really bad shin splints (brought on by my own stupidity), so I wasn't able to walk into Santiago.
But I made up for it last year by walking into Santiago three times! The first was in June 20th at the end of my combo Francés/Salvador/Norte Camino. Then I bussed taxied back to Gonzar to walk a few days on the Francés to walk with my friend @Oregon's Mark, and we walked into Santiago together on June 24th.

Me too! Two years ago today I walked into Santiago de Compostela. I started in SJPdP Not a day goes by that I don't think about the Camino. When i go on hikes here at home (Nashville) I always reminisce about my journey/Camino Frances. Hands down a precious, once in a lifetime experience. I appreciate this forum and reading/re-living my camino vicariously though the postings and generous sharing of knowledge and experiences of all of you forum members. A collective thanks to all for keeping the camino alive. Mary

 

[Isobeljc]

On this day 16/9/2018, day 2 of the Aragones.
A very hot day, but when this pic was taken it was still beautiful.
You may remember this bridge near Canfrac from another thread

 

[nycwalking]

On this day, I became a full-fledged-flustered turigrina!

I was not allowed to sleep in quiet room for persons over forty, and families. My camino friend from Belgium and her baby named Sana were there and she wanted company. I was 39 at the time.

Unbeknownst to me this albergue had the communal meal and the quemada. I did not discover until some years later that albergue was the place to be.

So, off I stormed to the municipal and passed a very quiet day. Although, I did have a lovely window near my bed so I could see the world.

Lesson learned: try to take life as it comes!

 

[Former member 81810]

Tuesday 16th September 2019, Camino Frances, Rua to Santiago
An iconic part of the Camino for me was being able to stand by these statues and see the towers of the Cathedral and reflect on my Camino before the final walk to the Cathedral. I was inspired to see them by the film The Way. I now have this picture on a place mat. Whether it was the time of day (I was there about 1pm) or because you have to leave the main Camino route to get to them, there were very few people which made it a more peaceful moment. The only minus being the items wrapped around their necks; I can understand things being left at the feet of the statues, but please, not on the statues themselves - I am hoping they will have been taken off before my next Camino. It did not though spoil the moment which will always be part of me now.

 

[tpmchugh]

16th September 2013. Virgen del Camino to Mazariffe. I left Virgen before dawn which was getting later every day as we got closer to Autumn/Fall. What a disaster is the signage leaving that town. I eventually made it to a roundabout and didnt know which way to go and there wasn't another pilgrim in sight. After walking right round checking the exits I decided to just sit down and wait for either someone else to arrive or the sun to come up. Just as I was about to give up, I spotted my faithful friend, the yellow arrow, and I was off again. Into Fresno gasping for breakfast but the café was not yet open so water and a snack bar had to do. It was still dark so I turned on the lights I had attached to my rucksack and walkrd on. It seemed like forever in the dark and not an arrow to be seen. I started to doubt I was on the right road and must have missed a turn. Another ten minutes and I will turn back was my thought. Then I spotted a light in the distance so walked on and came to Oncina. I was more mentally tired than physical so a rest break was needed. Then along came Mees and Raoul, last nights dinner companion. They were having the same doubts themselves when they spotted the red lights moving ahead. They were following my lights, The blind following the blind. Stopped eventually in San Antonio de Padua. They serve a great paella.
2016, I was between Castrojeriz and Boadilla but on a whim, I stopped at Ermita de San Nicolás. What a place that albergue is. An experience not to be missed. One of the hospitaleros heard me say I was from Ireland and asked if I preferred Guinness or Smith Wicks, made me laugh everytime he pronounced the W in smithwicks. BTW, sunrise from Mostelares is amazing

 

[Isobeljc]

September 17th 2019
A rest day in Jaca on the Aragones to see the sights.
The Monastery of San Juan de la Pena certainly lives up to its reputation. Nestled under a cliff, it is something to be seen. The pics don’t do it justice.
We missed out on the bus, so the tourist office booked a taxi for us. It was 50 Euro well spent as he took us to both the old and the new monastery and waited for us.
The Citadel was also worth a visit.

 

[JohnLloyd]

On this day two years ago, I climbed O Cebreiro and ended up in Hospital.

 

[tpmchugh]

On this day two years ago, I climbed O Cebreiro and ended up in Hospital.

Haha, I fell for it even though I have stayed in Hospital myself

 

[Latecomer]

In Mérida on the VDLP, September 17, 2015. Took a rest day and time to look around since it rained most of the 16th.

 

[Isobeljc]

September the 17th on the Aragones
A very hot day, we left early and got in early to Santa Cilia de Jaca. Waited in the park under a tree with some furry pilgrims until the only Albergue in town opened. The lovely hospitalaro was very upset when the power went out due to a storm. The meal, although late was worth waiting for.
We met our new walking companions there.

 

[SioCamino]

This day back in 2015 I was walking the Camino Francés... i had started from SJPP in May for a little "holiday" and just fell in love with the camino... i was lucky enough to be able to return and restart from Burgos at the start of September. I walked with a wonderful french canadian peregrina who had walked the Francés the year before - she used to say that the camino taught her to be worry-free and she had returned again to give thanks for that. She absolutely adored Galicia... the bread! the brujas! the landscape! the people!.... this was my first time in Galicia and I wasn't impressed!! It all seemed far too like walking at home in Ireland, foggy mornings, country lanes, smell of cow dung.... of course part of my response to Galicia on that camino was that we were getting closer to SdC and my camino would end and I wasn't ready for that! Now of course i adore Galicia and i always think of her when I am walking there. RIP Louise, you live on in the camino for me.
The photos are i think of around Portomarín.

 

[KJFSophie]

On this date, in September...the 16th, 2018...A was walking the Camino Portuguese with a boney tumor in my right knee , taking it very slow with lots of breaks. On this day stopping to practice my Portuguese with two chatty ladies from the village...Bless you both Lovely Ladies, I hope you are well...

 

[tpmchugh]

September 17th, 2013, Mazariffe to Hospital de Orbigo.
On my way out of Mazariffe in the early morning dark, I stepped in a bit of a pothole at the side of the road and twisted my ankle. Didnt hurt so much then but would come back to haunt me again and again over the next lot of years. Mostly I could walk it off but every now and then it would be painful enough to stop me walking. Physio eventually helped but still have little twinges from it. Really liked Hospital and seen some unusual sights. The bridge of course is the most unusual that we all know. In Puente de Órbigo just before the bridge there is a cafe/bar. In the garden there is a bird cage full of exotic birds, not what I expected to see in Spain. In the village on the other side of the bridge, Hospital de Órbigo, there is a new build house designed like a castle except for the TV aerials and solar panels. We stayed that night in albergue San Miguel. The hospitalero is an artist and he leaves ot an easle, canvass and paints for any peregrinos who fancies themselves as a Rembrandt.
2016 San Nicolás to Fromista. An uneventful kind of day except for the way out of Itero. I stopped to look at the spot I had a terrible accident in 2013. I stopped at the crossroad to check my book as to which way to go. I was sitting on my rucksack and put my guidebook into top pocket and forgot to close the zip. As I threw it onto my back, my hipflask fell out. The top broke and I watched in horror as my good Irish Whiskey poured into the Spanish soil. Of course, I only had it for medicinal purposes haha. But that little spot on the camino will be forever a part of Ireland.

 

[tpmchugh]

September 18th 2013. Hospital de Órbigo to Murias de Rechivaldo.
Its an early start in the dark again but ay least we have breakfast. The hospitalero has been up for ages making breakfast as each pilgrim arrived in the kitchen. Best toast I have had since leaving Ireland. Mees and I have agreed to meet up in Santa Catalina if we dont meet in Asrorga. I am taking the road route while he takes the mountain route. At the end of town, I will go straight on and later he will turn right. As I approach the turn, I take a picture of a street light and the moon both glowing in the dark. BTW, take my advice, dont take the road route, miserable walk. AS the sun comes up, I hear a voice behind me asking if this is the way to Santiago. It is Mees. He missed his turn. We stopped for food just outside Astorga. Mees decided he wanted to move on so we parted ways to meet later in Santa Catalina. Now my foot injury from yesterday started to act up. By the time I got to Ecce Homo I was in a lot of pain. Just had to accept that I would never make it to Santa Catalina and would never see Mees again. I stopped at Casa Las Aguedas albergue and as the weather was so warm, tables were moved outside into the courtyard for dinner. Met a couple of Irish guys there. One was from Dublin, the other from Mayo and those two counties were in the All Ireland Final that weekend. The Dubs won.

2016, I walked from Fromista to Villalcazar. Nothing special except for the sunrise. I stopped to look back and saw the most amazing sunrise. I took the river path but halfway along there was an arrow pointing to the left. I heard music so turned that way. It brought me into Amenecer albergue garden. After a good lunch I followed the road from Villamentero to Villalcazar.
One thing this day had in common over the two years was the opportunity for great photos. Great sunrise in 2016 and a vintage car show in Astorga in 2013

 

[Tulle]

September 19th 2016 I was greeted by this fellow on Camino Ingles. He has greeted me three times now but I am not sure if we will meet again...

 

[JohnLloyd]

An unexpected request, sadly unfulfilled.

 

[tpmchugh]

September 20th 2013. Rabanal to El Acebo
Its two days now since I last seen Mees. Guess I am not catching up with him now. Everyone talks about the cruz but maybe I was expecting too much. I was a bit disappointed with it and moved on quickly. Cant remember the name of the albergue I stayed in but it was over the main cafe bar right in the middle of the town. I had planned to walk to Molinaseca but I was in a bad way when I got to Acebo. That dusty white trail really took it out of me and on reflection, I realised I was dehydrated.
2016. For some reason, I have a memory blank for this day. I know I went from Leon to Mazariffe but thats it. I dont even have any photos to remind me so I will post a couple from yesterday in Leon

 

[Former member 91017]

On this day in 2014, I limped out of Hontanas with shin splits and achilles tendonitis in both legs, and had to stop in Castrojirez for the day. I fell into the first bar, and they offered me a room upstairs, bags of ice for my knees and shins and ankles... and I collapsed.
The very next day, I walked all the way to Carrion de los Condes and was the very last person into town.

 

[Latecomer]

Grañón, September 21, 2018.

A fun and tasty communal dinner with Pilgrims from France, Spain, Brazil, Canada, Australia, Germany, Italy, Korea, Poland, Venezuela, Lithuania, Russia, and USA.

Don't be afraid to stay in Grañón just because you sleep on mats on the floor. It's a great place! YMMV.
¡Buen Camino!

 

[JohnLloyd]

Grañón, September 21, 2018.

A fun and tasty communal dinner with Pilgrims from France, Spain, Brazil, Canada, Australia, Germany, Italy, Korea, Poland, Venezuela, Lithuania, Russia, and USA.
View attachment 83398
Don't be afraid to stay in Grañón just because you sleep on mats on the floor. It's a great place! YMMV.
¡Buen Camino!

One of my most favourite albergues. I slept brilliantly on those mats and was positively euphoric the following morning.

 

[Stivandrer]

One Friday morning
Life when you are Libra...!!

 

[Tulle]

On this date in 2018 we arrived in Pola de Allande on Camino Primitivo. We stayed in Hotel Nuevo Allandesa and wanted to have a late lunch there and eat the famous Asturian soup Fabada. We thought that was the only course and ate plentiful. But there was more to come...After that lunch we had to find our beds

 

[Camino Chrissy]

wanted to have a late lunch there and eat the famous Asturian soup Fabada. We thought that was the only course and ate plentiful. But there was more to come

We had a similar experience on the Norte at lunch one day. They had no menus and we knew no Spanish, so we nodded our heads to what the waiter proposed. He literally brought out six courses one at a time, which became very humorous to me. Unfortunately each course became more wonderful than the one before it and we filled up on the early ones, having no clue there were more and more coming. Finally we stood up to pay, worrying how much we were going to be charged for the huge meal. The waiter seemed surprised and said..."What? No flan?"