Day 9 – Arcade to Pontevedra – 12km
A rather nice stay in Arcade, and I was very much looking forward to the days short walk. After breakfast I took off reasonably quickly, as less strapping of the feet was required. The hip was also feeling much better than it had since Day 2. It was a glorious morning—cool, fresh air filled the lungs as I made my way out of Arcade.
The route had a few climbs but was mainly level, which suited me fine. There was a section where the arrows pointed down two different paths and offered no explanation. Thankfully, a Spanish couple came up and explained in Spanish what was going on. I surprisingly I could make out just enough to understand what was in each direction. “Bosque” and “Arroyo” were one option—forest and stream. “Coches” was mentioned for the other—cars. So I assumed going the forest and stream direction was the sensible choice. I’m picking up some Spanish it seems.
It was a great little path, and sure enough winding through forest and alongside a bubbling stream. Before I knew it, I was out of the woods and in Pontevedra—only two and a half hours of walking. I made my way through the urban streets to the hotel well before midday, and was still able to check in, which was perfect for planning a decent afternoon siesta.
I did manage to get out for a wander of the city after a nap. There was a sports festival on, though I think I’d missed most of the entertainment. There were some really nice old buildings in the Old Town, yet nowhere I could settle on for dinner. There were lots of options, but it was so humid that I ended up having a bite at the hotel. A very comfortable room at the Galicia Palace Hotel it must be said.
Day 10 – Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis – 22km
I was up early and ready—the extra rest from the previous day obviously helped. Smashed a quick breakfast and was eager to get going. The feet were feeling good, and I kept a quick pace without break all the way to Caldas de Reis. The trail was packed with pilgrims; I don’t recall one stretch where I was alone. Even as I blew past about 100 or so people, there were always more ahead.
I’d knocked about an hour off the predicted walking time and checked into the hotel/albergue right on 1pm. There was threat of rain in the afternoon—another reason to leg it.
Caldas de Reis is a nice looking town. I’ll explore a little before going to bed, as long as the rain stays away.
Tomorrow it’s predicted to rain most of the day, but forecasts haven’t been all that accurate so far. Fingers crossed I’ll complete the Camino without getting rained on.
Next stop, the penultimate: Padrón.
