Bonus Day in A Coruña

Today was supposed to be my last day in Spain, but a canceled flight by TAP Air Portugal turned into an unexpected gift. Instead of spending last night in Madrid and flying to Lisbon this morning, I booked a third night in my favorite city in Spain and caught a short flight to Madrid today. Now I get an overnight in Lisbon and head home a day later.

There are worse problems to have than one more day in A Coruña.

A Coruña is a place I feel deeply connected to. It has beautiful beaches where surfers chase Atlantic swells, a lively seafront promenade that stretches for nearly 13 kilometers—one of the longest urban waterfront walks in Europe—and pedestrian streets that wind through the charming Old Town.

The city’s heart is the grand Plaza de María Pita, named for María Pita, the local heroine who rallied the city’s defenders against an English attack in 1589 after her husband was killed in battle. Her courage is immortalized in the towering statue that watches over the square.

Then there is the Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest functioning Roman lighthouse. Built nearly 2,000 years ago and remodeled during the Renaissance, it still guides ships today. According to legend, it stands on the spot where Hercules defeated the giant Geryon, giving the tower both historical and mythical significance.

Mostly, though, it’s the feeling of the place that keeps drawing me back—the ocean, the energy, the cafés, and the easy rhythm of life.

As I wrap up this Camino and my time in Spain, I’m feeling incredibly grateful for all the blessings of this journey: the freedom to walk my own way, the friendships that appeared when I needed them most, the generosity of strangers, the beauty of northern Spain, and perhaps one of the greatest miracles of all—no heel pain.

Fifteen days ago, I set out not knowing exactly what I would find. I return home with tired legs, a full heart, and a reminder that some of the best moments in life are the ones you never planned.

Buen Camino, and until next time, Spain. ❤️🇪🇸
#caminodelnorte #caminodesantiagoRead more