Ancient Bridges and Perfect Tortillas: Sarria to Portomarin
What a glorious day on the Camino! Twenty kilometers of Spanish countryside stretched out before us as we left Sarria this morning, and I couldn't have asked for more perfect walking weather. The sun was shining down on us pilgrims, but there was just enough of a gentle breeze to keep us comfortable as we made our way toward Portomarin.
You know how I always worry about the weather on these long walking days, but today felt like a gift. Not too hot, not too cold – just that perfect temperature where you can lose yourself in the rhythm of putting one foot in front of the other, listening to the sounds of the countryside and feeling grateful to be exactly where you are.
The highlight of our walk had to be crossing that incredible ancient Roman bridge. Can you imagine? People have been walking across that very same stone bridge for nearly two thousand years! I stood there for a moment, thinking about all the pilgrims who came before me, all the stories those ancient stones could tell. It gave me goosebumps, honestly.
We stopped for lunch in the sweetest little village – one of those places that feels like time forgot to visit. I wish I could bottle up the atmosphere of these tiny Spanish villages and bring it home with me. We found a small local place, and oh my goodness, the tortilla española they served us... I'm not exaggerating when I say it was the best I have ever tasted in my life! Perfectly cooked eggs, tender potatoes, and something magical that I can't quite put my finger on. Maybe it was just the combination of being hungry from the walk and sitting in that charming little spot, but every bite was absolutely divine.
My feet are definitely feeling these twenty kilometers tonight – I won't lie about that! But there's something so satisfying about that tired feeling when you know you've earned every bit of it. My heart feels so incredibly full right now. There's something about this pilgrimage that just fills you up from the inside out, if that makes any sense.
Tomorrow we'll continue our journey toward Palas de Rei, adding more kilometers to our adventure and more memories to treasure. I can hardly believe how far we've come already, and how much further this amazing path will take us.
Sending love to everyone back home! I'm off to soak these tired feet and get ready for another beautiful day on the Camino tomorrow.