Camino Portuegues - Part 7

Middle Point Doldrums - A Guardia to Vigo

For anyone who has done long distance hikes, there comes a point where it just feels endless. The middle point is always the hardest. The excitement of starting a new adventure has worn off. The end goal, so far in the distance. The days run together, becoming endless walks done by rote memory. Even the views of the gorgeous scenery have lost its magic.

Walking past villages, you see the simplicity of life in this far off region of Spain. Fishing and agriculture are the main industries. Vineyards dot the landscape. The way takes you slightly away from the coast onto secondary roadways. Asphalt is unforgiving on these tired legs.

I make my way past the Romanesque Monastery of Oia. Standing tall and proud on the Atlantic coastline, this 12th century Church shines with a baroque facade. Unfortunately, it was closed for visitors.

I finally reach the city of Baiona, where I have a two-night stay. The seaside town has a long history including a strong connection to America. The earliest settlement dates back to 140 BC. Ownership of the town has changed hands many times, as has its name. Baiona's busy seafront and harbor along with its medieval old town made it a great stop.

Monte Boi & Castelo de Monterreal - The Castle of Monterreal was built during the 12th Century and has always played a role in patrolling marine activities and defending the Galician coastline from pirates. The Monte Boi pathway is around 2 Km long and loops around the fortress. The scenic trail passes by sandy beaches, through an old gate where remnants of the old fortress can be seen.

On March 1, 1493, the Pinta, one of the ships from Columbus' voyage to the New World returned to Europe and arrived in Baiona, making the town's port the first to receive news of the discovery of America. This monument along with a replica of the Pinta commemorate the news.

It's easy to get lost, wandering the medieval old town. These narrow streets are the place to be every night with endless tapas restaurants and tabernas.

It was super early as I left Baiona for a long day of walking. The sun was bright and already the temperatures were rising. The path followed Vigo Bay, past several beaches and through the coastal wetlands.