Day 12: Vilanova to Herbon

Monday 30 September:

A late start today as our ferry to Pontecesures (a trip included in the Camino) was only at 11:00. The misty boat trip took us through the area’s famous mussel beds and passed 17 stone crosses that are said to mark the final journey of the body of Saint James (Santiago) to Santiago De Compostela for burial. We then walked from Padron to the auberge at the monastery at Herbon, hoping to get one of the 30 beds available (they don’t take reservations). At 4 pm, we signed in for beds 23 and 24 - and Prudence’s dream of overnighting in a monastery came true! It’s run by volunteers as a traditional auberge to accommodate pilgrims who arrive on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback. In exchange for a bed and a simple, tasty meal of salad, lentil soup and fruit, they only request a donation. Certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!Read more