The substitute hostel while basic was clean and quiet and had very welcoming hosts. We were so happy to be bedbug free!

I slept so soundly that when I finally woke I saw no sign of Mandy or Karma. Apparently she had tried to gently wake me to no avail so they kindly let me sleep. We knew it would be another day of rain and not too long, so there was no rush. I got myself moving and packed up and joined them for breakfast in the common area. Best of all, the host had brewed drip coffee and I had a full mug! What a treat.

Then it was the start of the zombie walk… hiker after hiker coming along behind us and those in front, mostly covered in large rain parkas. In the morning, in the dark, it’s pretty eerie. And it continued that way all day.

Rain and more rain. The hardest it has come down thus far. There was no end to the rivers of water flowing down the pavement, down over the boulders, in ruts on the earthen paths. Puddles and mud. We just carried on. Basically one is wet from the rain on the outside and wet from sweat on the inside.

Fairly early we found a cafe for coffee, and happily had Heather, from Scotland, and Michelle, from the Netherlands also come in. It’s such a joy to recognize people as well as continue to meet new ones.

We passed a few spots where we could look out and vaguely see signs of the Ria de Pontevedre.

That was the extent of any respite spots until we finally spotted a small sign noting a mercado and bar up a small hill in 50 meters. Yay! Up we went finding it crammed packed with hikers, including our friends, the Canadian family. Everyone scooted in and around to make space, as Lisa, from Estonia, arrived and a new couple from Alaska.

We were pleased to be able to buy a loaf of fresh bread that I covered with Gouda and devoured. I needed the fuel to keep going. We try to stay positive no matter the weather. Can’t do anything about it but we can control our attitude. I remind myself that this entire adventure was my idea. it helps.

Pontevedre showed itself up ahead. That was a wonderful sight as I knew that’s where our evening’s hostel was. We walked through much of the city, which is pretty substantial in size, located along the Rio Lerez.

Now checked in, showered and with laundry done, as every bit of our clothing was wet and dirty. As usual, my shoes were soaked. Karma, the sweetie, found a hair dryer and sat for ages blow drying them the best he could.

However, rain continues to be the forecast.

11 miles with 27,259 steps