Esposende to Viana do Castelo - Rocky climbs, forest and cobblestones


Sustenance via a ‘donativo’ stall - cola, banana, croissant, watermelon, and coffee (already gone) - when I needed it. The Camino comes through once more! 
It had been a tough climb - nothing like I had expected from the serene seaside morning . . . 

and quiet boardwalk.

Changes began when the path turned right - away from the ocean.
Pilgrims started to check their feet. I realised it was time for breakfast (not Portuguese Tart again 🙄)

The path led to the hills above the coastline, to monuments and churches with medieval artefacts.

Outside locals were commuting, inside silence. Back on the street children smiled, waved and wished me and other walkers a ‘bom Caminho’ Priceless!

The climb continued past stately houses with Camino connections 

To the forest and woodland green 

A different path- one that undulates with random rocks and other obstacles and descending the valley to the crossing.
Then up again 

More rock hopping in dappled sunlight 

And then . . , more climbing 

Thinking - ok this is a challenge- it’s going to level out soon- and minutes later, it did. 
Around the bend was a donativo stall where you pay what you can and what’s fair. 
An a la carte lunch of cola, coffee, croissant, banana and watermelon- together with a little Ibuprofen (Camino Smarties) from my kit, did the trick- The stall holder and I shared a good laugh.
The toughest section was over. It was down hill from there - except for these tiny cobblestones which bite through the soles of your shoes. 
The city of Viana do Castelo came into view 
After a careful long narrow bridge  crossing (don’t drop your phone, Mike)
I met an Australian, James and checked into the albergue on the river.

Later, a group of us went a local restaurant recommended by the lady on reception.

A fun night after a challenging day! 












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