Day 37. Vega de Valcarce to Alto de Poio

The tune to “Oklahoma” ran through my head today as we headed out to climb up to O’Cebriero (1500 m). It was a beautiful morning, temps starting at 47 degrees, it was a beautiful day and I had such a happy feeling to be back in the mountains again! We passed through several small villages nestled into the side of mountains. Homes with large and small gardens, chickens, and cows. As we left Vega De Valcarce we stopped at a bar for a coffee and a resident was bringing his cows through town. Running of the bulls as Steve said. The views were so beautiful today. As we reached the top to O’Cebreiro, a man playing the bagpipes, welcomed us to the little town. When we got to the center square, a bus had let off tourists. You could hardly move because of so much traffic. We decided to go to the next village for a second breakfast. I don’t know if I am ready to be in crowds again. It felt so odd. As we left, we passed the oldest church on the Camino. Wanted to go in but it was closed.
We met up with our friends Chen and Anna from South Korea, Stuart from Great Britain and Bernie from Austria. All going to different Albergues for the night. We did pass from the Leon Province to the Galicia Provence today. Supposedly this area is known for their beef.
There is 152 km left til Santiago (94 miles)! We can hardly believe that next week we will finally arrive! Today we hiked 14.8 miles (33872 steps). Tomorrow we will sleep in a bit for our Albergue is only about 9 miles. Easy day. Our knees can use the rest.
I am grateful for the unbelievable hike today, grateful for our supportive friends and grateful for the privilege to be able to do this hike.Read more