I was going to comment on how I have grown to like the way markers here. Often on turns, there would be more than one, sometimes more than 2 arrows to catch your attention. There are often yellow crosses telling you that is not the right way. Some guidance and a bit of deterrence often work wonders.
That was before today. The Camino split into two routes after crossing the river to Viana do Castelo; coastal and litoral. (It was split from Porto but merged to cross at Viana do Castello) We were expecting a large sign announcing the split and pointing you in the right direction to each. Not so. There were arrows after the bridge but we did not know which way it lead us to. Fortunately, standing around looking lost often attracts help. With a fellow pilgrim and a very helpful local, we were sent on our way. The way markers are helpful but once you make a wrong turn and get off the route, it is nearly impossible to run into a marker again.
We have a relatively short day. After negotiating a small hill, it was undulating terrain through towns. Once we found the right route, it is an easy walk. We arrived at the albergue at around 1230 pm. The albergue is spacious with 3 different dormitories with a total of 26 beds. We pre-booked and got a room with 4 beds; 4 single beds with no climbing onto the upper bunk. Perfect!
We were early enough to venture into the village to have lunch. After a couple of rounds of explanations by the server, we managed to order 4 humongous meals with seafood starters (not that we have much choice, the menu is limited and all meals are huge). The meals were excellent and we ended up with leftover for dinner. Great when we don't even have to walk again to the village for dinner.
We even had live entertainment. It is a Sunday and the next table to us was a family gathering for an 80th birthday for the grandma. First was the singing and outcame the ukelele. Various family members were chiming in. The singing was actually very good and everyone enjoyed it. Everyone in the restaurant joined in the Portuguese versions of Happy Birthday (we in English). We all ended up sharing the birthday cake. Such a great way to end a fantastic day.
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