El Camino de Santiago and other trails.
Today’s hike was quite challenging as we tackled the highest point of the Camino Primitivo, reaching an elevation of 3,760 feet. The trail was strenuous with rugged mountainous terrain, but the breathtaking view from the peak made it all worth it. Adding to the challenge was the absence of restaurants or cafes along this route. Although the guide mentioned restaurants in some villages, we were disappointed that the ones we reached were all closed.
Today’s journey from Tineo to Pola de Allande, was a walk of 31 kilometers. As we set out in the morning, gentle rain accompanied our walk through the serene Asturias Forest. The misty atmosphere created by the fog transformed the surroundings into a mystical and introspective setting, inspiring deep reflection.
In the afternoon, we met Castine, better known as the German lady. As we walked through the forest, we saw a woman standing in front of the Jedi bench (see picture) at the foot of a hill, debating if she should go up to the mountain to see the ruins of a hospital today or tomorrow. We told her we would not do it, so she walked with us. It is nice to meet people in El Camino; even briefly, talking with them can impact us or at least make our hike more bearable.
As we strolled alongside her, she imparted her knowledge about the flora around us. She pointed out which flowers could be used for tea and even plucked some leaves that are high water contain. Suddenly, she darted ahead, reaching into a cluster of bushes and emerging with a handful of four wild strawberries. With a smile, she declared -this is gold- and shared these strawberries with us. After accompanying us for a few more miles, she stopped because she had reached her Albergue. The last time we saw the German lady was as she sat amidst the forest, surrounded by blooms and enjoying fresh fruit. Meeting her along El Camino was indeed a captivating experience.
Today, we did the third stage of el Camino Primitivo, a 22 km (13.67 miles) hike from Salas to Tineo. The route took us through picturesque woodlands and muddy fields. Along the way, we come across la Ermita de San Roque, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture dating back to the 12th century.
The second day of walking was 23 Km/ 14.29 miles.
Today has been the most challenging day because of the weather. The temperature was 75°F and 95% humidity. The weather in Asturias is very humid; it reminds me of the weather from Yucatan, that feeling of heat coming from the ground before rain.
On our hike today, we walked through the forest, but we did a lot of walking on asphalt, so it was challenging to hike with the heat coming from the ground. We also saw the historic San Salvador De Cornellana Monastery, which has a rich history dating back to its foundation in 1024.
According to local legend, a little girl from a prominent family once got lost in the forest, and a female bear took care of her until she was found. In gratitude for this survival miracle, the girl’s family founded a monastery and engraved the image of the female bear nursing the girl on the main door.
Contemplating structures that have stood for over a millennium prompts us to reflect on the brevity of our lives on Earth.
The first stage of El Camino Primitivo is 28 km/17 miles.
We were very excited to start the journey to Santiago. After we left Oviedo, we entered the forest. Most of the walk was easy. We walked through farms, saw several town washhouses, and crossed ancient bridges, including the bridge Peñaflor over río Nalon, built in the 12th century, where the Spanish and Napoleon’s troops fought during the war. Also, we encountered the remains of a Roman house.
As we walked through the villages today, the number of abandoned houses struck us, each a silent testament to the passage of time.
During our visit to Paris last year, we did the first stage of Saint James Way, a famous pilgrimage route. Our journey began with a visit to the pilgrim’s office nestled in the city’s heart, where we obtained the pilgrim’s credential. This booklet records our journey, getting stamped along the way to validate the distance covered. It is a crucial document as it attests to our commitment to walking The Saint James Way (El Camino de Santiago) and is essential for obtaining the Compostela. The Compostela, a document that certifies the completion of El Camino de Santiago, is awarded by church authorities. It can be obtained from the Pilgrim’s Office in Santiago, making it a tangible proof of our pilgrimage and achievement.
This summer, we return to Spain to walk the Camino Primitivo, covering approximately 225 miles in the northwest of Spain. This route is our third Camino, and we will walk through Asturias and Galicia.
We are using our French pilgrim’s credential with the first stamp from the Notre Dame Cathedral and also adding the 11 miles from Paris to Massy.
The San Francisco Crosstown Trail stands out as an extraordinary urban exploration that allows visitors and locals alike to discover the hidden beauty of San Francisco. The hike will take you through bustling streets, scenic parks, and neighborhoods, providing an experience of the city’s culture and natural surroundings.
The Crosstown Hike spans approximately 17 miles across San Francisco. Although it can be completed in a single day, it is highly recommended that you take time to fully absorb the sights and sounds along the way.
Starting Point: Section 1: Candlestick Point, Visitacion Valley, McLaren Park
The trail begins at Candlestick Park State Recreation Area, near the former location of the Giants and 49ers. The path then guides you through the Visitacion Valley Greenway, a series of community parks and gardens serving as both an outdoor learning space and a focal point for the neighborhood. Lastly, you will stroll through McLaren Park, the city’s third-largest park.
Section 2: Glen Park Greenway, Glen Canyon Park, Laguna Honda Trail
Sixty acres of rehabilitated natural environment at Glen Canyon Park and navigate the rejuvenated Laguna Honda Community Trail System.
Section 3: Golden Gate Heights Park, Grandview Park, Tiled Stairways
Take a moment to admire the expansive views of Grandview Park in Golden Gate Heights and the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps.
Section 4: Blue Heron Lake, Rose Garden, Park Presidio Boulevard
Walk through the eastern part of Golden Gate Park. Once you’ve circled Blue Heron Lake, you’ll arrive at the park’s Rose Garden. You’ll be directed to Park Presidio Greenway when you leave the park.
Section 5: Presidio, Sea Cliff, Lands’ End
The last part of the trek guides you to Land’s End, an untamed coastal region providing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Walk along picturesque paths that lead to the Sutro Baths. This historic complex was once a lavish public bathing facility.
Our second time walking into Santiago but this time with our daughters. We walked 175 miles over 13 days and started in Porto, Portugal. We are tired and sore but very gratified to have finished this adventure as a family. Santiago de Compostela is a city steeped in a rich and intriguing history. Happy to have had the opportunity a second time to arrive here on foot.
Our walk was uneventful. Good weather most of the day, we ran into our old friends, and we met new people along El Camino. The sense of camaradería between the people walking is one of the the many experiences in El Camino.
TrekTok 