Day 23: Cacabelos to Vega de Valcarce 26kms

We had a choice today to go over a mountain, over three mountains, or through the mountains ... and yes, you guessed right, we decided through. We had read that it was not a pleasant walk, beside a highway. It was walking on the side of an old highway through the mountains and old, old towns. Not much traffic to speak of and we followed the rio Valcarce, a beautiful rushing river. A cool day, maybe a little freezing this morning at 6.30, however perfect for walking. The river is lined all the way with huge poplars and the breeze was thick with their seeds. A dreaded walk we found to be really peaceful. Zac was asking what the food is like for which there is no easy answer. Eating places in villages, towns, cities offer a meal of the day which is a choice of entree, main, dessert, bread, and wine or water for a set price. The value and quality of these vary considerably, chips prevail! So there are not a lot of options, and lunches feature bread with cheese or ham, one is known to beg for at least tomato slices. Breakfast offers croissants, toast, freshly squeezed orange juice, and coffee. The coffee with milk is delicious. We are thankful and usually, when well, desperate to eat anything to gain energy. So we have walked our legs off, and we have not lost weight, and that dream has died!