Vilanova de Arousa to Padron
When I went down to breakfast, the table was set for Joana’s birthday. Balloons, a beautiful happy birthday sign cut from red and white napkins, very creative. Tina, Cynthia and Amy contributed. Amy made a delicious breakfast quiche with leftover vegetables. A wonderful celebration for Joana.
Slow morning since didn’t have to leave until 11:00.
Drove back to Vilanova de Arousa in time for coffee or in my case hot chocolate before our 12:30 ferry.
The rain started on our walk back, so poncho out. I’m glad I get to use it after lugging it for so many days. Let no item go unused or used only once. It was a funny seeing all the yellow and lime green pack covers on a group of pilgrims. Reminded me of my room growing up in Livingston. One by one we boarded, the 2 decker ferry. Packs got stowed below then a choice of covered or open deck. I chose open.
I sat with Pauline from Yorkshire. I had introduced myself to her earlier because I loved her skirt. It helps to wear cool clothing to give an opening line of introduction.
Shortly after leaving we came to mussel farms which are wooden platform with ropes hanging down about 12 meters for mussels to grow on.
After about 6 months they separate the big and small mussels. Put them on separate ropes and back down they go for another 6 months.
Big go off to market. Small stay to grow
Galician Is supposedly second to Canada in muscle production in the world.
The Ria de Arousa is smooth as glass today.
We are in a meter and a half of water, and at low tide this is all mud.
There are 12 crosses marking the path of St. James’ body. We just gpassed the first one but apparently they’re from the 1960s.. so I lost interest.
Tina’s German friend is on our boat.
Tea, oj and cake served complimentary.
The river was much larger than I expected. The company was more interesting than the ride itself. It was relaxing and calming being on the water but i didn’t feel spiritual. Modern windmills on the mountains.
As soon as we docked there was a mass exedus.
Everyone walked in a line.. The pilgrims March.
Across a bridge, stamp in pilgrim’s office. Then the rain let loose. Use of new poncho again. Love it is so easy to throw on with both a zipper and Velcro option jacket style fits over my pack.
Trudged in the rain the 1.5 miles to Pension Jardin, an 18th century mansion converted into a pension. The 100 year old grandma still lives there with her brother and sister. They live in separate but attached houses.
The Botanical garden across the street is well maintained with many species of trees including California sequoias. Great place to relax after a long day.
Everyone went out to dinner for Joana’s bday. Even though it was mother’s Day here, we were able to find a place that could seat us. We got there right as they opened and they didn’t take reservations. I had hake for the first time. It wasn’t bad.