7 days – Matosinhos, Portugal to Baiona, Spain May 17 – 24, 2023
I’ve been thinking about this walk for 4 years after my friend Deb walked it in 2019. These thoughts were put on hold during COVID, and we had other travel plans for last year (Utah Mighty 5 National Parks – in another post).
In January, I made the decision that this was the year to go and started planning. This would be a solo trip as Craig isn’t able to walk long distances. I have traveled solo internationally before (with a year of travel in 1982-3) so it wasn’t too worrisome for me. Portugal is a safe country.
There are many Caminos that lead to Santiago de Compostella in Spain. I chose the Senda Litoral Camino that follows the Atlantic Coast.
People walk a Camino for many different reasons. Some for a religious experience as a pilgrim trekking to the church that houses the remains of the Apostle James the Greater. Some walk for spiritual reasons, some for the challenge. I was excited to start this journey as a physical challenge, time to reflect, and to experience the joy of nature and being in new surroundings. I would not be walking all the way to Santiago de Compostela, but would complete my walking journey in Baiona Spain.
People collect stamps in a small booklet along the way (called a credential), which is important for those continuing to Santiago de Compostela to receive official recognition of completing a Camino.
I chose to use a company to book my accommodation (with breakfast) and transport my bag daily to my next accommodation. Lots of people walk with their backpacks, and I give kudos to them. I didn’t want to risk a back injury that might shorten my trip. And I was happy to know where I would be staying each day. Many pilgrims stay in hostels. My accommodation would be in 2 or 3 start hotels.
The following posts highlight the seven days of my Camino.
