Today’s walk from Arzúa to Rúa was a mix of peaceful paths and buzzing anticipation. The trail rolled through shaded woods, quiet villages, steep surprise hills, and the occasional roadside café tempting us with fresh orange juice and tortilla.
We started early to beat the heat—thankfully the morning air was still cool. Breakfast chatter was all about the unexpected warm-up, with temps pushing 80 later in the day. Not exactly what we packed for!
We met the Andersons from Ireland today. Mary and Rob were experiencing the Camino with their son Garry. Mary loves to garden, bake, and cook. We talked for a while on our walk and we instantly connected. We knew we would continue to see them on the way to Santiago, as we wished each other Buen Camino and separated for a bit.
After walking for two hours we came across a roadside cafe- A Granxa de Tato. A charming cafe with delicious coffee and, of course, freshly squeezed orange juice. Tato himself served us and we enjoyed chatting with him for a while. He was funny and kind, like most of the locals we’ve met along the Camino.
A short stop to refresh and restore the body is a perfect pick-me-up to keep going. There are many times when quitting creeps up on your mind, but that is not an option!
The landscape along the Camino is nothing short of breathtaking in its diversity and beauty. Each step brings a new scene—rolling hills carpeted in wildflowers, ancient trees stretching toward the sky, and quiet streams weaving through peaceful meadows. I find myself constantly pausing, drawn to capture the fleeting details of the journey: a delicate blossom catching the morning light, a curious animal peeking through the brush, or a sweeping vista that opens up like a painting.
Spring breathes life into everything around me. The earth feels freshly awakened, buzzing with color and sound. Birds call from the treetops, bees dance from flower to flower, and there’s a sense of renewal in the air that feels both peaceful and full of promise. In this season of rebirth, the Camino doesn’t just offer a physical path forward—it reflects an inner journey too, filled with hope, clarity, and the quiet joy of being present in nature’s embrace.
And with every step closer to Santiago, we see our newfound friends over and over again. Each time is a joyful reconnection with total strangers. We stopped for a bite to eat and saw the Andersons from Ireland. We also met two friends from Indonesia. They were so friendly and eager to join our conversation. We shared food, blister care, and exchanged numbers and emails. The success of completing one more day on the Camino is measured not just by miles, but by the people you meet.
The 18 kilometers passed quicker than expected. Legs are feeling it, but spirits are high. We’re just one day away from Santiago now, and it’s starting to feel real. Feet are sore, hearts are full. We can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.
Road Drifters 