Celebrating the 4th in Bendoiro

I have walked past a 17th century stone Pazo (estate) turned hotel many times and have always been tempted. This year, since I would be walking by on the 4th of July, it seemed like a good year to yield to the temptation. The Pazo de Bendoiro was willing to take me in, http://www.pazodebendoiro.com and the rate was really pretty good. it’s a big estate and there are beautiful gardens and patios for just vegging our. A good choice!

The walk was a good mix of rural, forests, dairy farms, small hamlets, one big town with its glorious river walk, and then four kms through a typically ugly industrial park. I had a really nice conversation with a woman tending her spectacular vegetable garden. She rarely buys any at all, the plot has things growing all year!

By 1 pm I was checking in after walking 29 km. I think the thought of a bit of luxury put some pep in my step. Luxurious sheets, thick towels, wow.

So I am about 50 km from Santiago. Since I didn’t walk into Santiago last year for lack of time, I am really looking forward to it. TWO DAYS!!!Read more