The terrain was a continuation of yesterday. We climbed over a small mountain which was beautiful at the top, then through many forested areas, which Karen considered a bonus for her. We walked through several eucalyptus plantations which always pleases the senses. There’s the rustling of their leaves, the beauty of their tall straight trunks, and the minty, camphorous scent that calms your mind and clears your head.
We spent the day putting rain gear on and then taking it off. It is unbearably humid right now. Although that sounds like a complaint I do like to walk in the rain. I just prefer not to have to switch my gear back and forth. We happened upon one of Mick and Bob’s friends, Scott. We walk together for a while and then Scott went off to find his albergue in the next city.
After Scott had left us in the forest to get settled into his accommodations, we walked into Melide an hour later to have lunch. We just happen to choose the same restaurant has he was in so we ended up having our meals together before saying goodbye.
In Melide the Camino Frances and the Primitivo join together for the pilgrims’ last trek into Santiago. This merging of Camino’s multiples the number of pilgrims on the trail tenfold but it also brings with it the blessing of meeting new people and sharing their experiences.
We ended the day with the wonderful meal of the Caldo Gallego (a delightful vegetable soup) and spare ribs and potatoes braised in a saffron broth.
Loving your updates! I’m impressed with your back to back 16 mile days – Wow! The food you have described has sounded yummy. 🙂
Today was 13-14 miles so getting better. Traffic jam on the Camino. The primativo and Frances have combined.