Day 16 Vigo to Redondela

Another short day today, heading to Redondela where one joins the people who have taken the central route from Porto. Getting out of Vigo was interesting. Of course, there is a major climb up from sea-level and one walks through a grim urban landscape. It took a lot of stopping and map-checking but the Spanish were their usual helpful selves, taking time to intervene. The best example was a chap who being so concerned about lost pilgrims, led me and a German pilgrim along a disused railway track to get out of the city.

The views back over Vigo weren't particularly inspiring.

The track led to a pleasant route above the estuary towards Redondela. I met an American who was on camino with his family but wearing a walking kilt. I was immediately struck by kilt-envy and will have to get one before my next camino. I have mixed British ancestry but there is one bloodthirsty highland clan amongst my forebears and I will have to see if I can get a suitable tartan.

It's a short route and there was nowhere to eat. There was a one very nice looking place - O Eido Vello cabanas - but unfortunately was shutting just as we pilgrims arrived. However, they were charming and, rather than do the whole "sorry 'we're closed bit" happily made sandwiches for a picnic later on.

Lunch was therefore at a particularly fine bus stop on the road. The bus stop seemed abandoned so it made an ok restaurant.

And then to Redondela. Fortunately I now know this town. Sadly there was no Jose at Bar Central but the Casa Mucha served its usual great food and there was time to have a wander around the town and see the sights before turning in.

The Church of Santiago in Redondela