A Gem On Top Of The World

Although my original plan was to overnight in Villafranca del Bierzo, I arrived there so early in the day that I decided to add on another 10 km and walk on to Trabadelo. As I had the energy to continue, this turned out to have been an excellent decision. Not only was Trabadelo a charming spot in the road, I now had only another 17 km (mostly uphill) before reaching my destination the following day of O Cebreiro. The charm of this ancient stone village cannot be overstated. It’s like stepping back in time in this small, well preserved/restored way station on the top of the mountain. Arriving well before noon gave me plenty of time to explore the shops, eateries, and church. Being one of the first to arrive at the Xunta or municipal albergue guaranteed my bed for the night in this very modern, but comfortable, housing option for the night. Although large by many albergue standard, it filled up as the afternoon progressed when more pilgrims arrived. If there is a downside to visiting O Cebreiro, its that it’s also a popular destination for tour buses and Spanish tourists. Nonetheless, what a great place to relax after a good day’s walk and enjoy a copa de tinto with pilgrim friends! So, after walking 625 km or 375 miles, I take my first steps into the final province of Galicia.