The end is near…

Jul 23, 2023

The last several days have just been consistent walking with one major milestone. We passed the 100 kilometer mark to Santiago. To officially say you’ve completed the Camino you have to walk 100 kilometers or cycle 200 kilometers. It means a lot of folks start in Sarria, which is the town closest to the 100k point and many even take a bus right to the 100k marker and start there.

So, yesterday’s walk was a bit of a madhouse as there were tons of people out and about. Groups playing music, lots of talking, it was very different from the solitude much of the walk has been. That’s been the pattern, solitary walking, with an occasional passing of someone, a few minutes talking, maybe a longer time at lunch. But mostly during the day quiet time alone. Then you arrive at the hostel and social hour begins.

Anyway, the little crew I’ve been with walked a little farther yesterday to get off stage, meaning we’re staying in a town in between the common destination towns. Makes it a little more manageable and less hectic.

The scenery remains lovely, mostly smaller farms, lots of cows, some goats. The Camino literally just crossed through farmyards so we’re up close with the animals and such. You sometimes have to pause as a farmer lets his cows out of the barn into the field. The architecture has changed to stacked stone buildings, and I’m seeing the first cemeteries I’ve noticed. These are like the ones in New Orleans with above ground crypts. I’m guessing because there’s only like 6” of soil so trying to dig a grave means you’re drilling through solid rock.

Only 3 more walking days until Santiago, it’s crazy that the end is so close. I’m definitely ready for a break, my shoes and my body are wearing out, for sure. I’m planning on 2 days in Santiago, then will decide if I keep walking to Finnisterra, which is on the Atlantic coast. I really want to, but I’m also tired and ready to not have to walk everyday, so it’ll be a game day decision.

Here’s more pics!

Monastery in Samos