Today started a bit late after first breakfast at a Cafe where it appears some staff didn’t turn up for work and the man serving was on his own. Cafe con leche,  Chooros and fresh orange juice for me all for 4Euro ($6.50Aud).

It started to drizzle rain as we left and we were all prepared with our wet weather gear. We looked an interesting looking bunch, I must say. The people here have been so friendly, at the juncture on the road a lovely woman put her head out the window to point and gesture to us to take the right path. I suspect in Australia we would be left to take the wrong path.

The scenery is beautiful, very green and lush with lots of wildflowers emerging after the cold winter. The countryside, in part, reminds me of Tasmania, when you are in the sun it is fine but once you are out of the sun it is freezing. Lots of up and down hills today and a rocky path in places. There were other parts where we were sharing the narrow road with cars which was interesting. We had a couple more stops to recharge with drinks & snacks along the way and I took my time taking in the scenery and enjoying the peace after the last few days in the chaotic cities. I think I could learn to enjoy this lifestyle.

Casa Morgage. Our refuge for the night. We arrived around 2.30pm in time for lunch. Casa Morgade’s history started as a Hospital on The Santiago Way in 1200 AD and now operates as a restaurant and accommodation to Pilgrims on the Camino.

With a solid legacy in agriculture and livestock, the house has been restored keeping true to the original style; built from exposed stone, featuring a wood-fired oven, large courtyards and terraces with fantastic views. Casa Morgade is located in a mountainous area surrounded by lush forests with native trees, including magnificent oak and chestnut trees. There are many unusual and interesting sites within the grounds surrounding Casa Morgade, including the famous “Fonte do Demo” (The Devil’s Fountain) and the Morgade chapel, a place where hundreds of pilgrims have left testimony of their thoughts and experiences during their time on The Santiago Way.

We are accommodated in a new section of the albergue which is quite good. Our rooms are $70 Euro a night (113 Aud). There is an older section with dormitory style sleeping. The view from my room is spectacular and so peaceful. Great company and excellent food.