I really didn’t want to get out of my very cosy bed this morning, but I managed to get ready and be down to breakfast in time.
Jose, once again, out did himself with a fantastic breakfast. Many commented that it just couldn’t get any better than this, and Paul comments “tonight’s place is even nicer”. WOW
We leave on time and drive through beautiful, narrow tree lined lanes – what incredible scenery! Most of the group starts the walk from the 17km mark; Annie & Leslie at the 14km mark, and Paul & I closer to the lunch pick up (around 6km). Paul is happy as he is more on this time zone and is walking energetically!
After a beautiful walk through the forests, Paul & I arrive at Cafe-bar Campanilla (means little bell) and decide to have a cafe con leche and a wee break. After walking on a mere 500 metres we come to the meet spot at Casa de Samosas, a lovely B&B with a huge patio cafe. We only wait a few minutes before the various groups arrive, and following a refreshment we are off.
We drive to our lunch cafe in Melide. The town is known for its pulpo (octopus) and this will be one of the many dishes they serve us today. The meal is excellent and not quite as heavy as other days. We had salad, pulpo, of course, empanadas, small roasted peppers, cheese, bread (Galicia makes the best bread) and incredible desserts.
From here the majority take the 9km directly back to the hotel, some of us get in the van from 5km mark at Boente where Paul is waiting for us. This is to avoid the last large hill of the day! Leslie, Paul & I enjoy a nice walk through tree lined paths and past beautiful meadows and small farms. It really is a beautiful part of the world! The cafe in Boente is across the street from a very pretty little church.
Next stop, the Pazo de Sedor, our home for tonight. The 17th century house has been completely restored and is magnificent. Each rooms is unique and all rooms look out towards the beautiful Galician countryside. Absolutely delightful. Annie & I share a room tonight, and are very pleased with our spacious “apartment” that, along with the restaurant next door, has been converted from stables.
We rest for a couple of hours, each doing our own thing. There are several other guests here that are on Walks in Spain’s Self guided program.
Dinner was very good once again and larger than the “light” traditional dinners of Spain. I will certainly need to head directly to the gym as soon as I arrive home!
Today was a big day for most, 16+km so we all turned in early. Another glorious day on the Camino!