Day 32: Triacastela - Sarria, 18.7 km.
We had a choice of 2 routes today. An easier, longer one or a shorter (by over 6 kms) more difficult one. Thanks to our compadre Marina's advice, who is a day ahead and has already walked it, we chose the shorter, harder one. It was a perfect day. Blue skies, cool breeze, warm temperature...and steep ups and downs at the beginning of the day. Much better then at the end of a long day!!
Today was all about magical, artistic moments on the Camino. Early in our climb out of town we happened upon Art's studio displaying Art's art which was open and inviting. He is from England based on his decor yet wasn't even there. Just opened up his place for us to walk through.
Then a bit further we ran into a magical, angel stop just when I was longing for a cafe con leche and a bano. Two lovely Australian kids were serving while their Mom and Uncle were in the back making the coffee and preparing the treats for the peregrinos...all for donativos (donation). He has created a cozy, homey oasis and his sister and kids were just visiting and helping serve. MAGICAL!!!
To top it off, we took a 30 minute detour off the beaten track to visit a local artist who makes everything from rocks he gathers in the nearby mountains. He crushes them and creates beautiful natural art. He turned his home into a studio, a small albergue, and his gallery.
We got to town by 2pm, cleaned up, and were off to explore Sarria. It is a 6th century town with evidence of it being an earlier Roman settlement. Many start their Camino here as it's an easy place to get to inside of Europe and fulfills the minimum requirement of walking 100km to Santiago to receive your Compostela. The Camino is about to get busy.
