Day 5 (Viana do Castelo)

 "So then where does the power come from to see the race to its end? From within." - Eric Liddell, "Chariots of Fire"


Fao to Viana do Castelo. 18 miles, 43,000 steps. Started at 6am in the dark, arrived at 1:30pm. I managed to follow the arrows for the first hour, feeling my way. Shortly after starting I ran into Hella from our group. I thought I'd walk a short distance with her since her pace was slightly faster. She's 13 years younger and in great shape. She's the one sponsoring the ice bath near the end of the trip. Originally from Germany but lives in Australia. As it turns out we stayed together the entire day. The little grinder, the bulldog inside me, wouldn't let her get ahead. We had an amazing day, lots of good conversation. It's always more fun to hike with someone but this day was especially wonderful.  We just seemed to click. A day I'll remember for a long time.

Lots of pretty scenery. Neighborhoods, eucalyptus forests, ocean views, small babbling waterfalls.

A little more up and down today. Some decent hills, enough to hold your attention. The last short hill coming into Viana made me think "what bugger p













ut this hill at the end of the day after 16 miles?"

A little sore but it's a good sore. I have a feeling of accomplishment. Feet actually feel better than yesterday.  I can tell you the shower felt relaxing.

Tomorrow's thankfully shorter (16km). Praia de Ancora, the last day in Portugal.

Hope you're enjoying the notes and pictures!

Comments

  1. PaulSeptember 16, 2025 at 12:37 PM

    Way to go Kevin!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  2. PaulSeptember 16, 2025 at 3:34 PM

    Eat, walk, be sure to shower, eat, sleep.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Donna RosenheckSeptember 19, 2025 at 5:22 AM

    What a wonderful day! Walking the Camino with a kindred spirit - yes, exhausting, yes, storing up good memories!

    ReplyDelete

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