Portuguese Way from Tui – Stage 4 – Travel Blog
Day four from Pontevedra to Caldas de Rei on the Portuguese Way, walking through vineyard-covered landscapes and fragrant mimosa groves.
A Piedi Per Il Mondo
Today's stage was challenging, not so much because of the difficulty of the route, but rather its length. We covered 22km, a distance that started to take its toll on the girls' legs, bringing back a few blisters and discomfort in feet and knees. But the tiredness wasn't just physical: hunger and the desire to take a break affected almost all of us, and in the final hour of walking, we were all on the lookout for an open café where we could relax.
The stage was nonetheless very pleasant, even though asphalt dominated over trails and dirt paths. Fortunately, the landscape rewarded us for our effort every step of the way, as did the desire to stay together and support each other through the difficult moments.
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Today, the 8th of March, we also celebrated in our own way the International Women's Day. Magnificent trees laden with mimosas accompanied us constantly through the forest, giving us not only a wonderful fragrance but also a luminous, radiant display of brilliant yellow. The scent of wet earth, the sight of moss covering the tree bark, and the sound of water babbling from the many streams and small brooks around us created an idyllic atmosphere that filled our hearts and kept smiles on our faces throughout the walk.
We then met three other pairs of pilgrims, though we weren't able to learn much about them. A few ritual photos along the way, a couple of selfies to complete the picture, and our day of walking continued wonderfully.
We eventually arrive in Caldas de Rei and quickly reach the albergue. We drop our things in the dormitory and head downstairs to eat something. Exceptional pulpo à la gallega and a tortilla that many found slightly undercooked help fill our stomachs and lift our spirits.
After dinner, we play a round of Briscola card game. Armed with our experience, Maurizio, Moyra and I believe we can crush Lucia and Claudia, our opponents. But as they say, luck is everything, and we're soundly beaten 4-0. An unfair result that we plan to reverse tonight with a rematch!
In short, a happy and joyful day, in true Women's Day spirit.
Thanks to our men, Vincenzo and Maurizio, for making it even more fun!
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