Today, the Camino revealed its path to me. I had booked a room on the Camino Costa instead of my Camino path. I attempted every possible way to find another room because it was situated off the Camino and required an Uber ride to reach it. Consequently, there was no feasible way back to the Camino Literal, leaving me with no choice but to embark on a new Camino today. The two Caminos were destined to converge so I thought, this will work for a day.
At the next stage of my trip, within five minutes of my walk, I realized what had been missing from the last three days. It was the varied terrain, the birds singing in the woods, the trees, the smells, the river, and the tranquility of a forest. A sense of relief washed over me, and even though I had been doing nothing but flat walking for three days, the climbs felt incredible and like coming home. I walked through small villages where the people greeted me warmly with “Buen Camino.” Pilgrims took time to chat with me along the trail.
When I was desperate for coffee and something to eat, a trail angel was there to provide!
He talked and danced to his rock n roll playing in the background. He definitely brighten an already bright day.
The rest of the day was filled with meeting new people from the US and several different countries. It was just a perfect day, even though my feet are throbbing from the cobblestones, my back aches and I had to take a nap after lunch.
Thank you all for keeping me fueled with your warm thoughts.
So glad you made that booking mistake. It looks wonderful.
It was exactly what I needed.
I love how the Camino reveals itself in wonderful ways when we let it! I also love hearing about your experiences with these two Portuguese routes, as my daughter and I have been talking about doing a Portuguese Camino.
I too would prefer the more natural path! Beautiful. I’m glad to hear all is going well for you.