Feb 7, 2013 Olveiroa to Cee: Best views so far

Walking out of Olveiroa

Today we chose to walk to Cee (20 kms) instead of directly to Finisterre (31 kms). We prefer to walk directly to the lighthouse and then return to the albergue in town. The trip out and back from the albergue to the lighthouse adds another 7 kms. Our thinking is that, if you don't break the last stage into two parts, then either the day you walk to Finisterre or the day you walk to Muxia will be long days if you include a trip out to the lighthouse, which is a must. So, off to Cee it was. We waved goodbye to our pension Casa Loncho, and its owner, Antonio, around 9:20 (off to an easy start). The day looked promising with scattered clouds, and temps in the mid 40's. The day's climb started almost immediately after leaving Olveiroa. It wasn't significant, just another day and another climb. It was quite still, not a breath of air to stir anything. I enjoy the stillness, especially morning stillness. It gives one a chance to think without the challenge of distractions.

That's the sun

Robin, and I adjusted our gait and followed the path upward to Hospital, where the Camino splits. Those wishing to go to Muxia (from Hospital) carry on, more or less, straight ahead, and those wishing to go first to Finisterre, bear left. We took the left. This shortly begins one of the best walks I have ever had the pleasure to enjoy. The next 15 kms takes you across a high moor, that offers the first glimpse of the sea. The path is mostly in good order, the scenery is stunning, and its quiet (remember I like the stillness). As you get closer to Cee, the coastal vistas open up and the pilgrim is rewarded with photo opportunities aplenty. The coastal regions of NW Spain are absolutely pristine and drop dead gorgeous.

The price that one has to pay for all these beautiful views is a steep descent down a very loose rocky path into Cee. Just take your time, mind your footing, and all will be well. The problem is that your head wants to swivel incessantly to catch the spectacular views, and your foot could fall where it shouldn't. Beware, but enjoy this unique part of the Camino. As we transitioned from rocky path to the streets below the thickening clouds offered up a few tears of joy that we had made it safely to Cee (what else could it have been?). We ambled along trying to follow the Camino path, which for some reason is always a challenge in this town. We sort of remembered where our hotel (Hotel Insua) was and navigated generally in that direction. We eventually came upon it and booked in. Once again day is done for these two foot weary pilgrims. Off tomorrow to Finisterre. Feels like an early night for us. All is well.

 

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