Cacabelos to Las Hererias

Day 9

Another beautiful morning for a walk. We set out in the cool of the day and hiked several kilometers before stopping for breakfast in the first place we all saw open. It’s strange how that first sip of coffee in the morning is always the best. Cafe con leche is my go-to first thing. It’s basically espresso but doubled with hot frothy milk. Fabulous. And, my other beverage of choice in the morning is Zumo Natural (fresh squeezed orange juice). I’m going to miss both when I’m back in the States.

Here I am with Julie at a rest stop…

Today we hiked through grape country. Miles and miles of vineyards. I was quite impressed that this farmer took the time and care to plant roses at the end of many of the rows of grape vines.

Last night in town I restocked my pet treats with a packet of cat treats. This morning quite early on the way out of town two giant, gorgeous bull mastiffs met me at their fence to bark at me. I walked with them to their driveway then threw over some puppy treats and all was quiet. Later I came across four little dogs in a pen and they got the rest of the dog treats and also a handful of cat treats. I didn’t see any dog food within their reach. I’m hoping they’re well-fed at breakfast but, in the meantime, they were happy for the snack.

This big guy was out of my reach.

Today I walked off and on with my friends to La Portela, where they were booked in for the night. Several towns on our walk, including La Portela, and much of the road where we spent a lot of time, were bordered by the Valcarce river. After lunch with my friends, I headed on my way 6km further. I noticed this big old house for sale on my way out of town. It had chickens in the backyard and backed up to the Valcarce and a poplar grove. I think it would make someone an excellent retirement home.

I stopped in Vega del Valcarce for ice cream as it was 90 degrees out. And, as many know “it would have been rude not to”. 🙂

I made it to Las Hererias by 3 pm and checked into my lovely room. This time I ended up with towels, linens, and a window with a screen that opens to a view of a mountain.

Got cleaned up and a bit organized. Now thinking of a light dinner. Definitely an early night. Big day tomorrow.

(Later)… I tried a local appetizer for the first time tonight and loved it. Spanish ham (it’s a bit like prosciutto) with melon (tastes like honeydew). It was fabulous!

After an early dinner I took a little stroll down the main street and looked at the local gardens, homes, and architecture. The whole town has a lot of character. It’s a bit cooler here due to the fact it’s in a valley. The river can be heard throughout the town. I imagine the life and seasons of the river are felt throughout the year.

It’s nice to also be out in the country a bit. These little ladies wandered into the road to say hello.

One of them wandered into a nearby shed that had a door left slightly open to eat directly from a corn feed bag. I doubt that’s what the farmer had in mind. After a while a white Mercedes wanted to drive thru and I had to shoo them back to their yard so they didn’t get squashed.

It’s been a good day.

More later…