June 22: Arcade

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA All the rest yesterday paid off. We walked about 25 km (15.5 mi) today, including two steep hills amounting to 388 m (1273 ft) climbs. The descents were more arduous than the rises, but provided us with beautiful vistas. Descending Monte Cornedo we could see Redondela in the distance. (left)

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAWe stopped at the central square in Redondela to put on sunscreen and cool our feet. From there, we  proceeded to Arcade, a small town on the Vigo River. The hill up was draining me…all I wanted was a lemonade or an ice cream. Just when I thought it would be possible, the road veered and we climbed some more. I was drenched by the time we peaked the mountain, where we took off our packs to let our shirts dry. As we rested, seven bicigrinos on mountain bikes passed us…I can’t imagine how difficult a climb that was for them.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAAs we entered Arcade, we spotted this shrine to pilgrims on the wall of someone’s house. People left small items in the grotto.

I am always amazed at how lovely the interior of hotels are compared to the ancient outsides. The same is true for homes; as I peer into open doors or windows, the modern interiors seem incongruous to the exteriors.

About The Author

Jane V. Blanchard

I am an award-winning author of the "Woman On Her Way" book series, writing about my travel adventures. For more information on the books, please visit janevblanchard.com. I started the "Woman On Her Way" travel blog in 2013 to share my experiences as I explored 13 countries with my husband, traveling by ship, foot, bike, bus, train, and plane. Dennis and I continue to make memories and hope you will enjoy following along.