Day 5:  Camilha to AGuarda, SPAIN!!!!:  3.32 miles.  Yes, you read that right.  Just 3.32 miles between towns today but I have a 20 mile day tomorrow.  I should have asked Camino Ways to fix this but I didn't.  It did provide me with a day of relative rest.  

I left Portugal on a water taxi this morning and headed to Spain.  There was a Portuguese gal at the dock who interviewed me and took my picture! She is asking pilgrims why they are doing the Camino.  If she posts my interview on instagram I'll let you know.



I had a VERY SHORT hike over a hill to reach the town of A Guarda but that didn't stop me from getting lost in the woods.  The markings were so clear, until a certain point, then they weren't. 



Anyway, I bushwacked my way back to the trail and carried on.  I am officially done reporting on the times I get lost because it will only bring you worry and what's the point of that?

I made it to A Guarda in an hour.  First stop: laundromat!  It was all going well until I made one very poor choice;  I chose the hottest temp for the dryer cycle.  My underwear melted onto the well.  My shorts became childlike.  I was able to peel the underwear off of the drum but they were crackly and unwearable.  The positive side of this was the SHOPPORTUNITY it provided.   Luckily I had the time to shop and this town had shops, so all is good.   Moving on...

I had a LOVELY lunch with my friends, who arrived in town around mid day.  People are asking about the food.  Here you go....

Fresh scallop


Ham Croquettes

A mixed salad


A salad with fresh shellfish and tuna

It was spectacular, as is the town.



Blow this pic up to look at the cool wall which protects the bay

I'm having dinner (who needs it after that lunch!) with Gena, Barbara and Christine tonight and then I will leave them tomorrow for the longest distance day of the pilgrimage - 20+ miles.  I will be sure to slow down when making choices as my tendency to decide in an instant is not benefitting me on this journey.  Thank you all for your comments.  I love receiving them.  Chao!

Comments

  1. AnnieSeptember 25, 2025 at 10:39 AM

    Hi Beth, Your photos are beautiful and adventures are terrific! I'm impressed that you seem to calmly persevere in the challenging moments of wayfinding then always get there. It even sounds like you're appreciating the twists and turns. The food looks scrumptious and healthy, and the sky is always blue! Do you get to see the stars? or too exhausted by dark? Good luck on the 20 miler tomorrow -remember snacks and maybe you won't be the only one on the trail?!(fingers double crossed!) xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnnieSeptember 25, 2025 at 10:41 AM

    Is that a tile wall? Fun!!

    ReplyDelete
  3. LindaSeptember 25, 2025 at 12:33 PM

    I love following your journey and look forward to reading and looking at your photos each day. I am in awe of your strength and attitude as each day presents itself. Wishing you a great day tomorrow as you continue making new discoveries! ❤️🤗

    ReplyDelete
  4. LoreleiSeptember 25, 2025 at 1:31 PM

    Wow, wow, WOW!!! Thx for the aMAZing pics and tales of wonder and yes… even the tales of worry! Part of the grand adventure you have embarked on. So impressed. I’d be ok walking in silence but would be damn sure I recognized at least one face beside, behind or in front of me!!! Maybe it just doesn’t work that way. Of course, I think of us in Nepal 30 (😱) years ago and wish I was by your side again. I love hearing about the people you’ve met… all on journeys of their own, for reasons of their own. Humans at their best. ❤️❤️❤️

    ReplyDelete
  5. FreddaSeptember 25, 2025 at 1:34 PM

    It was great talking to you today. The reception was better than what I have locally! Pace yourself tomorrow. It will be a long one! Can’t wait to hear all about it. Love Mom

    ReplyDelete
  6. SarahSeptember 25, 2025 at 10:45 PM

    I'll play taps and pour one out for your underpants 😆 In all seriousness, it looks like you're having a great time!! And hey, if you get lost again it's just part of the adventure. 💜

    ReplyDelete
  7. AnonymousSeptember 26, 2025 at 4:48 AM

    Thanks for sharing all the photos of your amazing journey. Good luck with that 20 mile hike!

    ReplyDelete

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