A year ago today I made my first step on the Camino Portugués, and I am again hearing the call for another pilgrimage.
This time, my return visit to the Camino de Santiago is going to be a little different. I’ll be arriving in Sarria for the last 100km of the French Route, however I will not be a solo traveler. Having been inspired by my blog, pictures and stories of my adventures along ‘the way’, my mum, her husband Joe and Joe’s son Chris will be joining me.
This is a huge step out of their comfort zones, but they have nothing to worry about; I’ll be taking up the mantle of guide. Although Sarria to Santiago can be done in 5 days, it will probably take us a little longer.
I’m hoping to stop at ‘Casa Bandaras’ in Vilacha, the private albergue run by Dominique and Ray. It was one of my favourite stops in 2021; all the pilgrims shared a home cooked meal around the dining table with our hosts. It was an enjoyable evening of chat and laughter, a great example of the camaraderie between pilgrims experienced along the way.
We will be calling into Melide for some pulpo and despite my mum already protesting, I’ll get her to try some of the town’s renowned delicacy. We will definitely be stopping ‘Casa Tia Dolores’; the bar that brews it’s own beer and the empty bottles used to make sculptures.
We’ll take up the hunt for the coveted wax stamp (I think I can remember where I got it). Experience albergue life, where I’ll witness their new found appreciation for earplugs! Maybe luck will be on our side and get to see the Botafumeiro swing.
I’ve been stressing that they will need to sort their footwear out, to avoid those blisters. Every time I’d visit my mum, she would drag me to an outdoor shop for more gear!
It will also bring back fond memories of my Camino and if my travelling companion’s experience a fraction of what I did, they are sure to enjoy their pilgrimage.
We will be setting off in a months time, and I can’t wait!
Stu's Camino 