When we had returned from dinner in Fonfria, the rain had started to get heavy. It continued late into the night and I was expecting a wet exit the next morning. Fortunately, when I first looked out our window, I could see stars. By the time we left, fog had set in, but no rain.

This sun did a good job of burning off most of the fog by sunrise, leaving patches for effect.

Early on I thought I found that church I needed to fulfill my earlier commitment.

Unfortunately, this one along with several others were either locked or did not have candles.

We had a good morning hike with beautiful views.

As is our custom, we stopped for our second breakfast and made more new friends.

Our path that morning was beautiful.

As we came into Triacastela, we came across an 800 year old chestnut tree that was still producing. 25’ in diameter!

Once in Triacastela the eight kilometer walk that was mostly steep and downhill, had taken its toll on Becky, so we summoned a taxi for her and I continued on foot to Samos. I was just happy to have not been a contributing factor this time. The first couple of kilometers were along the highway on one side, and a river on the other. I could hear the river more than see it, but every so often the wood would thin and I could catch a glimpse.

Once off the highway, the path was spectacular and I had it mostly to myself.

After about two hours I was looking down on the monastery Samos is known for and soon after entering town.

Since Becky had already arrived and had our lodging in place, we were soon headed to the monastery for a guided tour. Very impressive to see but I could not keep up with the tour guides Spanish. We did learn that this impressive facility is today home to only nine monks and two nuns.

The next day we prepared for our walk to Sarria, Early on we had a photo opportunity.

Again the path started out following the highway and river.

But before long we we heading into the woods on one of the most beautiful paths yet.

We finally found this funky place to have our second breakfast.

In another two kilometers Sarria appeared, but it would be 3 more miles until we reached our hotel.

One more chance meeting today. A German couple we had met on and off came out of a store as we entered town and we were able to exchange pleasantries. They went on and once we got checked in to the hotel we stepped outside and they were eating at the restaurant by the hotel so we joined them. They had the most interesting story. They had started from their home in Munich, had come through Switzerland and France, and 108 days and 2500 kilometers later, here they were. We commented on our chance meeting again and the gentleman’s response was that the camino brings into your life the people who are supposed to be there. Made us feel special. They soon left as they had 10 more kilometers to cover today. I can’t wait to see who else the Camino brings into our lives.

So now we are in Sarria for two nights before we begin the final walks that will have us arriving in Santiago on the 27th. Our main objectives are to rest, Becky wants her hair cut, and I am determined to finally find a church that is open and has candles.