- Portuguese Central Camino: Day 17/ Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis
- Distance: 13.6 miles / Total 207.3 miles
- Ascent: 808’ / Descent: 778’
- Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Weather: 62- 80 degrees / blue skies

Caldas de Reis with its charm…




Caldas de Reis with its charm…



Another day mostly spent walking through nature. With less than 100km to Santiago, pilgrims are usually within sight but all have ample private space.






City shots…





Without wiggle room at the end, I can’t take the Spiritual Route deviation including a stay at a Monastery and a boat excursion. The boat ride is along the same water passage St. James’ body was transported. Lesson learned…add flex days to travel plans.





The backdrop of Portuguese church bells is missing. Melodies mark the hour and striking of the bell mark the half hour. On Sunday mornings, bells ring incessantly.




The sand is quickly slipping through the hour glass. Soon the arrival of Santiago will be here. For now the silence of the day and the reunion of faces brings the greatest joy. The jubilance of Santiago is four days away.





Another day of walking in nature. Soft on the feet. Easy on the eyes.





Eyecatchers…








It’s a bit unexpected seeing scores of tourist shops within Valença’s famous historic city walls.





You need no more than an invitation to stop walking and join a friend for coffee. He described the eats as being excellent. Stumbling upon these outstanding treats with the company of a friend is the day’s highlight.



