Thursday, 5 June 2014

5 June - Ribadeo to Gondan

Started the day with two of us realising we need to have more agua between vino tintos- but raring to go by 9. Started out to Villa Martin Grande (as opposed to  the neighbouring Villa Martin Pequeno) where we were to be picked up at 3pm and returned to Ribadeo for accommodation reasons. Took the route we thought was correct and found ourselves with no shell way-marks indicating we were on track. So we improvised and to cut a long 4km story short went entirely the wrong way . Luckily a lovely Dutch couple in a campervan (complete with cat) passed us and realised we were way off track - so they  kindly stopped and dropped us back into town and on the right route! Phew- so started  again for the day around 10. 

Walk was not a long one and quite beautiful. The day was warm and we were going at a leisurely pace. The views were expansive and the country smells strong. We barely saw anyone except the farmers on the fields and a few women washing clothes outside.

Unfortunately we never found (un-signposted) Villa Martin Grande and ended up in Gondan by 3pm- at least 3kms past where we were supposed to be . Luckily the cab driver found us after a quick call to the travel agent and we were back drinking coffee and beer in town by 4pm. We plan to be better prepared directions-wise for the remaining 8 days hehe. 

It's Gillian posting as Jude btw. My phone broke yesterday and I have only just got it back fixed. Spent yesterday sorting this out and socialising with the locals (LOTR fans). There is a strong fascination for NZ - and not just amongst the Spanish. 

Went back to the same restaurant as last night and again the food was delicious and Jorge (our host and restaurant owner) spoilt us with chocolates and his own coffee liquor at the end of our meal. Tried the vino blanco which is a local specialty - was light and fruity with a hint of Spain! Met some German peregrinos tonight as well- what amazing hospitality we are having in this town!

Moving on tomorrow to Mondonedo - only 8 days left until Santiago de Compestella and the end of our walk. 






2 comments:

  1. wow only 8 days to go, seems you only just started. The photos are fantastic and coastal scenery is stunning. Its a funny feeling when you get to the end and have to join the real world again. Enjoy the last week being experienced peregrinos.
    Watch out for the newbies who are only doing the 100kms.

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    1. We have people only doing two week walks and asking if we are going to finish. It's like why wouldn't we? We can't believe it either but I will organise many more adventures for my life and those in it. I've been advised to hug the saint at the end I hope to get a nun as well!

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