The Camino pilgrimage to Santiago has different meaning to each individual. Whether it’s a spiritual journey or a journey to escape from the real world. Each person has their story as to why they are on the Camino. I’ve heard many heartbreaking stories about poor health, trying to recover from abuse. What the reason the coveted prize is the Camino passport stamped by businesses, churches, and friends of the Camino along the way. This photo shows start of our Camino passport. once reach Santiago they will validate our journey by the stamps and issue us an official certificate of Walking the Camino .
We left Esposende by 7am after a coffee at a café and headed out to Viana do Castelo, 18 miles away. The town was decorated in religious symbols . We traversed a number of small villages and made a climb from the beautiful coast of the Atlantic to rural villages of Portugal. Of course there were a number of churches. We met a number of pilgrams including 2 Germans that had stories as to why they were on the Camino. One included a Porche design engineer from Stuttgart. Kristine would be proud as she is a big Porche fan. The villages gave way to beautiful countryside and a trek through the forest. Met a Canadian on the leg and walked with him to our destination. The scenery was beautiful and the day ended at our guest house in Viana do Castelo. I screwed up the reservation so Dave and I almost had to sleep in the same bed. We told the owner we didn’t like that idea so he arrangements to give us a room with 2 beds. Fantastic Lebanese gentlemen that also made reservations for us at his favorite restaurant. It was great food and even better wine. Another great day on the Camino with my best friend and brother Dave.
Camino de Portuguese 