Vega de Valcarce

We left our Albergue this morning to finish the last few Km to the top of the mountain, and passed from Castilla y León into Galicia. We reached the top in the cool of the morning, and were greeted by local playing the bagpipes which was unexpected but rather nice. At the top we had stunning views of mountains in all directions. We were above the morning mist (or low cloud?) and so the mountain tops looked like they were floating on the mist, not sure the photos do it justice! The village at the top O’Cebreiro, had old cobbled streets and building including thatched roofs and had artisan shops. Last night we were at 1,150m altitude and the top is 1,330m. The way then took us through a village and to another peak (San Roque) at 1,270m, again just stunning panoramic views! The way meandered and took us to yet another peak Alto do Poie at 1,335m which was quite an arduous climb! But what goes up must come down and we started the slow descent down to Triacastela at 675m. The path took us through farming villages and past munching or dozing cows with cow bells, and lots of alpine meadows and wild flowers including bluebells, obviously flowering later due to the altitude, and giant slugs! The way also took us past an 800 year old chestnut tree with lots twists and turns, very gnarled.
So last night we were in bunks and again tonight in Albergue Horta de Able. It was only (?!) 23 Km today but the inclines made it hard work!En savoir plus