We ended up going to the local Pingo Doce for groceries, as there were limited vegan options, which the kids require. Back at the hostel there was very limited space and equipment but we made do.

This morning we wanted to get moving as we knew a major weather system was coming, so we hoped to walk a bit before the rain began. No such luck. It was already misty and then the rain began. Out came our umbrellas. Fortunately we already had on our shells and pack covers. And guess who joined us? The same dog who followed us yesterday. His saga continues. Matilda had tried to get the Caminha rescue group to pick him up but he disappeared. And now, here he was!

He trailed right along, actually following some direction, especially when we came across an active rail line, with the bells clanging and the arms coming down. We halted but the dog went across! And was on the tracks! Karma hollered and he got moving off. Whew!

I mentioned to Mandy that pretty soon we were going to have to name him. “No!” she quickly said. “ That’s the beginning of trouble”. Well, not long afterward Karma stated “I’ve named him Pilgrim “. Ha! At least I’m not to blame.

We plodded on in the rain with it alternately pouring or easing off. As we were basically following the Rio Minha we got glimpses of it now and again.

It wasn’t a day for pictures but I did see an interesting house and what Karma called a “sneaky” castle, as it was almost hidden at the top of a hill.

We came across a cafe that was actually open and we could sit out of the rain, so we got coffee. Good thing, as it was the only one we passed all day. Pilgrim, the dog stayed with us.

As usual we heard the usual amount of roosters crowing. Plus we passed a coop with chickens and a turkey. Then we came across black faced sheep. All the animals didn’t mind the weather.

Still no cafes. Finally we found a covered stand that had a dry floor so we rested there for a good 45 minutes. And there was Pilgrim with another 3 hikers, two from Poland and one from the Czech Republic. They had a bit of canned tuna, which he accepted.

Then it was just walking until we reached the hostel in Segirém. We were a few hours before check in time but Lawrence, the host, let us drop off our packs. We then walked into town to a local Indian restaurant for a big lunch, with Neil, from Switzerland, who’s been with us for a few days.

And now we’re all assembling at the hostel trying to find a rescue for our canine companion.

8 ish miles plus a few km to the restaurant and back with 24,114 steps