Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis - Walking together

We walk the Camino in our own way. We walk alone. We walk together. Sometimes we need someone to walk beside us - to help us, hold us on our way.
Early morning leaving Pontevedra - pilgrim silhouettes
The albergues were being vacated, hiking boots and poles tapped the pavements out of town.
To the forest above - pairs, solos, small groups who had their luggage carried forward, and pilgrims who needed someone to walk with them
The path was like a river, flowing with pilgrims. After 10kms I found a bar with space to have breakfast. The one before was bedlam albeit happy and chatty!

By the time I finished, there was a lineup at the bar. How different this Camino is. Bar owners know when the herd is approaching.
It is worth taking time to look- so many are walking for the first time. Almost everyone has a smile, and a Buen Camino, and a Buenos Dias - the spirit of Camino reinvents itself perpetually. I love that!
And they grow corn and grapes here too! There are moments (strangely) when you feel alone, and you are.
Before the city outskirts envelop you. This sign says it all - where I started, where I am, and where I am heading.
The walk into town was smooth. There seemed to be plenty of accommodation for the waves of pilgrims now heading to shore.
I found the pilgrim hostel (pictured) to the right of the medieval bridge and sacred monument. Plenty of space! Nearby - a thermal pool. My feet kept saying ‘yes, yes’

Some of us self catered, and wine, cheese and toasts, followed by pasta bolognaise 

There was a pilgrim mass at the cathedral around the corner. Not a huge crowd, a moving ceremony.

After mass, it was time to find friends. A search of nearby restaurants was fruitful.

Just in time for dessert- Tarta de Santiago!

A treasured day on the Camino.

Two walking days to Santiago. Lots of happy and reflective chat to come along the way.