Roberta, a retired teacher and Pilgrim Office volunteer, shared invaluable insights, making my Camino unforgettable.
Author Archives: wildwomenwalking
Day #14 – Poncesures to Riotinto
Embarking on the Camino de Santiago, where every step brings new friends and unforgettable moments. From stunning landscapes to enriching conversations, the journey is as much about the people you meet as it is about the miles you walk.
Day #13 – Caldas de Reis to Pontecesures
A brilliant day on the Camino! Meeting new people, great chats, and a memorable encounter with Madelyn.
Day # 12 – Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis
Staying in the same hostel from my past Camino journey, I’m excited to finish my trek and make new memories in Santiago
Day 10 & 11 – Vigo to Rondondela & Rondondela to Pontevedra
https://videopress.com/v/f4W2ppRp?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true Well, 10 miles was optimistic! The lyrics of one song kept going through my head today, “what goes up must come down”🎵 Made it on the first climb of the day. Day 10th profile I have not been very good about reading much information about what the upcoming day is going to look like.ContinueContinue reading “Day 10 & 11 – Vigo to Rondondela & Rondondela to Pontevedra”
Day 9 – Nigrán to Vigo
Solo hiking offered quiet contemplation, while the lively plazas of Vigo provided a vibrant contrast.
Day 8 – Viladesuso to Nigran
The trail was a rollercoaster of surprises, with unexpected climbs and descents that kept me on my toes.
Day 7 -A Guarda to Viladesuso
A perfect blend of walking a Camino that takes you through villages, mountain trails, coastal walkways and busy highways.
Day #6 – Vila Praia de Ãncora to Guarde
A whirlwind of activities! From exploring Portugal to Spain, every step was a new discovery.
Day 5 – Viana do Castelo to Vila Praia de Ãncora
An incredible day of exploration, with stunning landscapes, charming villages, and finally a coffee spot or two.
Day 4 – Esposenda to Viana do Costelo
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.
Day 3 – Vila do Conde to Esposende
Despite the physical and mental demands of the Camino, I found moments of tranquility and reflection. From the scenic coastal route to the helpful staff at Albergue Ultreya, there’s much to appreciate on this incredible journey
Day 2 – Matosinhos to Vila da Conde
After 17 challenging miles of the Camino Literal, I arrived at the Albergue, exhausted but grateful for the beautiful day.
May 1 – Day 1
Porto to Matosinhos As the sun was coming up, I heard birds outside my window. It’s gonna be a great day. I’m not sure that I’ve forgotten or if people are just getting up earlier in Albergue’s. This morning at 3:30 am there was a bustling of activity going on in the hallway. This floorContinueContinue reading “May 1 – Day 1”
Travel Day – as always patience is needed.
Would not suggest this travel itinerary.
T’was the Night Before….
The night before departure is always an endless blur. I’m thrilled to almost have the planning behind me and the actual trip ahead, filled with the excitement of the unknown.
Day 9 – Logrono to Madrid to Dublin to Seattle
As I coughed my way into the evening, unable to think about leaving my room for food, I decided to either find a hospital or a plane home. The start of my travels home. Fortunately there was a plane leaving from Logrono to Madrid early in the morning. I could fly from Madrid to DublinContinueContinue reading “Day 9 – Logrono to Madrid to Dublin to Seattle”
Day 8 – Lorca to Logrono
https://videopress.com/v/2p5j8Lsv?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true I’ve been walking since 6 AM and there is no one on the trail in front of me or behind me. I keep checking my map to make sure that I’m on the Frances. Caution! On a hill miles from somewhere In Rioja! Snails to Santiago Nature’s palette is perfect Working the Vineyards AContinueContinue reading “Day 8 – Lorca to Logrono”
Day 7- Lorca to Villamayor de Monjardin
I will keep this short and sweet….I made it! This respiratory issue with no sleep is taking its toll plus I have no appetite…not a good thing when distance walking. https://videopress.com/v/4cBxUPuu?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true The Spanish countryside kept me moving one step at a time. Snails live thee flax bushes
Day 6 – Obanos to Lorca
https://videopress.com/v/FYNAWxbq?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true I think that I might’ve been the only pilgrim that stayed in this cute little town. I know I was the only one who stayed in my Albergue/Rural Hotel. I saw the owner one time and then that was it. A nice place for the price, but not the usual friendly Camino welcoming. TheContinueContinue reading “Day 6 – Obanos to Lorca”
Day 5 – Pamplona to Obanos
https://videopress.com/v/eA9pf65h?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true The early start was a great idea. Lots of open area with little shade. Nothing on the Camino is truly flat and it is easy to be caught up with “oh this stage doesn’t have much elevation!” I don’t think that anyone said that about today. It was a long up hill climb toContinueContinue reading “Day 5 – Pamplona to Obanos”
Day 4 – Ilarratz to Pamplona
Today the morning was cool and refreshing. A nice walk through some woods and countryside with just a bit of background noise from the freeway that runs parallel to this part of the Camino. I’m looking forward to the day. It’s not as hot as yesterday. https://videopress.com/v/pJAi0gNg?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true If I could whistle like my dad, IContinueContinue reading “Day 4 – Ilarratz to Pamplona”
Day 3 – Burgette to Ilaratz
14.8 miles https://videopress.com/v/20bCu6J8?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true Whew! It was in the low 90’s by the time that we finished today. All of us were cooked and ready for a shower. Unfortunately my albergue was 3k down the road. I walked solo most of the day but ended the day and the dragon’s back down hill with a newContinueContinue reading “Day 3 – Burgette to Ilaratz”
Day 2 – Borda to Burquette
13 miles Today was challenging again. This time it was twice as long. There were so similarities to the Primativo. Lots of climbing and lots of downhills. Truly beautiful scenery. Today the sheep, cows and horse grazed on the sides of the road. https://videopress.com/v/4suR9LLl?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true https://videopress.com/v/G2myzzQb?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true A little too close for my comfort! I am tiredContinueContinue reading “Day 2 – Borda to Burquette”
Day 1 on the Frances
St Jean to Borda Off on my fourth Frances. It was perfect temperature for hiking a 2300 foot elevation gain in under 5 miles! The church bells were ringing and the birds were sing me out onto the Camino this morning. https://videopress.com/v/LValL7KM?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true https://videopress.com/v/6bEot9XF?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true All was beautiful until the reality of the climb started to invadeContinueContinue reading “Day 1 on the Frances”
Camino Travel Day
It was an early rise today, 3:00 am to catch my plane from Copenhagen to Paris to Biarritz when a shuttle to St Jean Pied a Port, the start of the Camino Frances. Boots on for the first time of this Camino. Hummmm. Sitting on the ground in Paris. No one can come out toContinueContinue reading “Camino Travel Day”
Denmark – Day 4-5
Day 4 Today was an incredible day! I was part of a blended family gathering to celebrate a parent’s annual tradition. It was a truly special moment to be a part of it. The day was a celebration of the late spring bloom of years of collection and planting rhododendrons—a total of 1500 to 2000ContinueContinue reading “Denmark – Day 4-5”
Denmark – Day 3
Today was centered around food and family as today was a family brunch. We hopped around doing grocery shopping, then pick up Julius. I got to see his first new apartment. The rest of the day was spent cooking, visiting and feasting together. I had previously bulked up🤭 for my Camino but I think thatContinueContinue reading “Denmark – Day 3”
Denmark – Day 2
For those who have not followed my blog over the years…where have you been🤣…I will explain my Danish Family. In 1987 Maria was a foreign exchange student in Montesano. We were her “default” family when things were not matched well with her first host family. In a few short months she became sister/daughter/cousin to allContinueContinue reading “Denmark – Day 2”
Travel Day – Seattle to Copenhagen
FYI the new carry-on and personal item size is serious business with Icelandair. The scales are out, the new size board is being used and there is no allowing a ½” outside the lines. Somehow the counter person said I was good to go with my pack. I know it is right at 21” 🤭ContinueContinue reading “Travel Day – Seattle to Copenhagen”
One day Until the Journey Begins…
I spent the day packing, unpacking, repacking and finally saying I’m ready. Many people have asked me what I take with me so I have done a picture essay of my packing and added it to the blog. Hope it’s helpful for people who are getting ready for their Camino. Because I carry my packContinueContinue reading “One day Until the Journey Begins…”
Time To Get Into Action….
I woke up last weekend and realized I was three weeks from leaving for Spain. I had made a few reservations: my favorite albergue in St Jean Pied de Port, France, and at Borda Albergue on my first night of hiking, but had done very little else. So I started making my way through theContinueContinue reading “Time To Get Into Action….”
I Cannot Ignore the Call of the Camino…
I have walked approximately 2000 miles on Camino trails. I guess it is yet to be enough. I was planning on doing two shorter Camino‘s this year but as I started planning, the Frances called out to me again. I turned 75 in April and for some reason it feels different than just being inContinueContinue reading “I Cannot Ignore the Call of the Camino…”
Day 4 -Lanjarõn
What a beautiful, restful day. It was not quite as hot today or we are adjusting to the arid high country weather. Our day was spent eating, drinking and sitting. Josh and Maria on an early morning trek to the bottom of the canyon to see the river, olive grove, fig trees, pomegranate trees andContinueContinue reading “Day 4 -Lanjarõn”
Post Camino Day 1-3
Lots of lessons learned this Camino! The main one was to be a little gentler on myself. I never want to ask or expect help, and for this Camino. I had to put my pride aside. It definitely is hard to decide if it was the trail that challenged my body or my age. ItContinueContinue reading “Post Camino Day 1-3”
Final Day
Our last trail day was long and a bit difficult for me. Usually I am at my peak walking in this area, but the Camino taught me a few lessons that have humbled me today. Soreness from my fall showed up in my hips which made the long climbs and descents difficult. Josh was hisContinueContinue reading “Final Day”
Day 13 – Melide to A Brea
Today was a 17 mile hike full of hills and lots of cafes and bars; finally! My goal today was to have breakfast at one of my favorite small village cafes, and it ended up that we made it for lunch! 10 miles without food thinking it was just around the corner! Going from aContinueContinue reading “Day 13 – Melide to A Brea”
Day 12 Ferreira to Melide
What started out as a quiet stroll through Galacia… Hippy scare crows The first black cow I have ever seen in a Camino Today smelled of eucalyptus… This can was here the last time I walked by… Pig farm We climbed and descended our way over the hills of the region. The climbs are definitelyContinueContinue reading “Day 12 Ferreira to Melide”
Day 11 Lugo to Ferreira
I love Galicia. Walking through the hills today felt like being home. I loved sharing this area with Josh. Our bodies and minds are in sync today, and we flew through the day. There was a lot of road walking, but they were back roads. Today was quite pleasant except for the pounding our feetContinueContinue reading “Day 11 Lugo to Ferreira”
Day 10 – Lugo
We are on a walking day through Lugo, replenishing our bodies and minds. In 15 minutes we had first breakfast And second breakfast. Eggs benny absolutely the best! Then we went on a wall walk. Old town Lugo was a walled city. Back to our room for a rest then out again for afternoon vermutContinueContinue reading “Day 10 – Lugo”
Day 9 – 0 Piñeiro to O Cadavo
First, of my thoughts for the day: I am grateful for my son. He is thoughtful, caring, observant not to bruise my already black and blue ego, and has patience beyond humanly possible. https://videopress.com/v/5KRCfI9u?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true Josh and I discussed the trail today and wondered why it felt so hard. Some said it was going to beContinueContinue reading “Day 9 – 0 Piñeiro to O Cadavo”
Day 8 Castro to O Piñeiro
Somehow, I had convinced myself that today was going to be an easier day… HMMM? In a way was easier because we only had a 2000 foot elevation gain instead of 3000 feet. Walking 16 miles was two miles more than I wanted to do, but with no choice we made it to our Albergue.ContinueContinue reading “Day 8 Castro to O Piñeiro”
Day 7- La Mesa to Castro
I knew Josh was multitalented , but now he can add Madidore to his resume. Our day started with a massive climb of about 1500 feet, and when we reached the top, it was magical because the fog was below us. It looked like we were walking into a a white sea. Unfortunately, we wereContinueContinue reading “Day 7- La Mesa to Castro”
Day 6 Pola De Allende to La Mesa
I come to this blog tonight from my bed. I feel like a Tour De France rider after the mountain stage who lost their lead because their legs gave out. Unfortunately, there is no massageus helping my legs recover. Three thousand nine hundred two feet of elevation gain today! The morning started out promising; well,ContinueContinue reading “Day 6 Pola De Allende to La Mesa”
Day 5 Campiello to Pola De Allande
We decided to do an alternate route today because we were unsure my knee would withstand a big climb and a decent for 19 miles. And also, Allison told us that this village has some of the best Asturian food in the region, so who wouldn’t choose the alternate route? So it was a 9ContinueContinue reading “Day 5 Campiello to Pola De Allande”
Day 4 – Bodenaya to Campiello
We said goodbye to our Albergue host from Twist and off we went. It was great to be back on the Camino. For most of the day, my knee felt good. I taped and wore a knee brace, and except for specific slopes on the downhills, I did pretty well for 16 miles. https://videopress.com/v/hT2MGT62?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true LotsContinueContinue reading “Day 4 – Bodenaya to Campiello”
Day 3 – Cornella to Bodenaya
https://videopress.com/v/DWwyoAy8?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true Well I have had might feet up all day, except for the visit to the bakery, café for second breakfast and then to the market for food before dinner tonight. Just me and the kitties today. A gift from Gloria, the owner of the albergue. Gloria with her daughter and grandchildren. Her daughter wasContinueContinue reading “Day 3 – Cornella to Bodenaya”
Day 2 Paladin to Cornellana
I call today “highway to hell…when you have a knee injury anyway. I tried all measures to overcome the now up and downhill pain….singing my irritating “Oscar Meyer Weiner” theme song in my head; Josh had enough to deal with. I tried cursing and then laughing. I wanted to cry, but again, Josh had enoughContinueContinue reading “Day 2 Paladin to Cornellana”
Day 1 & I Thought it Might Be the Last Day….
What the heck? Years of hiking and not a twinge in my knee. That is until today. I was the weak link, and everyone knows I do not like to be the weak link! I was fine climbing but when the downhill came my body let me down. I was in pain most of theContinueContinue reading “Day 1 & I Thought it Might Be the Last Day….”
Two Days of Travel….
Day one: One forgets how much time and energy it takes to get to Europe. Well worth the effort, but the hours in the plane takes it’s toll. And no matter when I go, I never go rested. So our wonderful overnight in Dublin was measured by a great pint of Guiness and mediocre bangersContinueContinue reading “Two Days of Travel….”
I am a bit of a mess….
Walking the Camino is about the experience; letting the journey unfold before you. This is my vision for our journey on the Primativo. I feel a bit unprepared. After numerous Caminos you would think that I could pack without a list, need no new purchases; just jam, bang and take off. Well….. Aging has changedContinueContinue reading “I am a bit of a mess….”
Can It Already be June?
Josh and I are seriously on the count down now. In 15 days we will be boarding the plane for Dublin. This will be our first day adventure in Europe. I am looking forward to spending an evening in pubs with live music, sharing a pint with my “favorite” child (according to his sister😂) NoContinueContinue reading “Can It Already be June?”
Day 8 – Celebrating another year….
How can I possible be 74? Today Brenda went on a tour and I went on a long walk around some back streets and new neighborhoods of Rome; my own food walking/food tour. It was delightful, delicious and just what I needed. I started out again with a croissant and coffee and then I setContinueContinue reading “Day 8 – Celebrating another year….”
Day 7 Rome
My day I started with a wonderful coffee and a fantastic croissant filled with cream. I had once thought the croissant I had in France was the best croissant experience of my lifetime, but I have to say this was better or at least as good. We walked to the train station to welcome Maria’sContinueContinue reading “Day 7 Rome”
Day 6 – Sorrento to Rome
https://videopress.com/v/KSa9oQFS?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true We had another train ride again today. We are returning to Rome, where we will spend four days before heading home. We rode the local train to Naples and then upgraded to the fast train, which saved us two hours. After we checked into our room, we decided to do a whirlwind walkabout throughContinueContinue reading “Day 6 – Sorrento to Rome”
Day 5 – Pompeii
There are a lot of families traveling together. The teenagers seem bored, but I know they will remember their family trip with fond memories as the years go by. Today, I observed two teenage girls intently, looking at their phones until one noticed a flock of chickens outside the train window. They got very excitedContinueContinue reading “Day 5 – Pompeii”
Day 4 – A Favorite Day
This was just the type of day I love about traveling. We did a cooking class in an agriturismo just 20 minutes in the hills above Sorrento. It was wonderful to get out into the rural area of Campaigna seeing the groves of citrus and olive trees and vineyards of local grapes. The Agriturismo PrimaluceContinueContinue reading “Day 4 – A Favorite Day”
Day 3 – Another Travel Day
Our little “hotel”; one floor of a city building, is very charming. At the breakfast this morning we met an interesting couple from New Zealand. They are on a whirl wind European trip to several countries. Today we are going to board a bus, ferry and then another bus, to explore Almafi, Positano, and Ravello.ContinueContinue reading “Day 3 – Another Travel Day”
Day 1 and 2 in Italy
Brenda had the food scene all scoped out by the time I arrived in Rome. I think I had traveled 22 hours by the time we made it to our hotel and into bed! Finally arriving in Rome…Seattle to Heathrow, Heathrow to Rome Airport and then train to center. First stop Il Mercoto Centrale ,ContinueContinue reading “Day 1 and 2 in Italy”
My Whirlwind Italy Trip…
Brenda and I are traveling separately both coming and going to Italy. Brenda is leaving before me with a two-day stopover in Iceland. She will meet me in Rome on April 3. I’m flying out of Seattle in one day. I have a 1.5 hour layover in London at Heathrow Airport which is a bitContinueContinue reading “My Whirlwind Italy Trip…”