A Journey on the Via de la Plata
Every Camino tells a different story. For Gus from Canada, the Via de la Plata became more than just a trail across Galicia—it was six days of friendship, resilience, and discovery.
Starting in Ourense, Gus joined friends old and new to walk the final 100 km of this historic route into Santiago de Compostela. This was his second Camino with CaminoWays.com, and along the way, he kept a diary of his impressions.
Here are his reflections, written in the moment and shared with us to inspire future pilgrims.
Day 1: A Rocky Start in Santiago
Gus began his journey with a twist—he arrived in Santiago, but his luggage did not. No socks, no change of clothes, no toothbrush. And instead of beginning the walk at the cathedral, the group would be bused to Ourense to begin their Camino back towards Santiago.
“It’s odd to arrive at the destination, only to leave it behind,” Gus noted. Still, stepping inside the great Cathedral of Santiago, he reminded himself not to get too excited just yet—the true journey was still ahead.
Day 2: Gathering in Ourense
The group of nine Canadian hikers came together in Ourense, famous for its hot springs dating back to Roman times. CaminoWays’ local expert Iago hosted a dinner, sharing stories and Galician history.
Despite the missing luggage, Gus was overwhelmed by the kindness of friends who lent him socks, shirts, and even toothpaste. “Wonderful friends I have,” he wrote. “Great company to hike with too.”
Day 3: Ourense to Cea – Steep Roads and Roman Bridges
Crossing a Roman bridge out of Ourense, the group began their Camino in earnest. A 12 km climb tested their strength, followed by gentler paths through the countryside.
They ended the day in a beautiful country inn near Cea, welcomed with homemade food and warm hospitality. Still no luggage—but the Camino spirit was alive in generosity and camaraderie.
Day 4: Cea to Dozón – Kindness and a Monastery
Walking through farmland and forests, Gus’s group visited the Monasterio de Oseira, a 12th-century Gothic wonder still inhabited by monks.
By evening, the long wait was finally over—his suitcase arrived, 77 hours late. The group toasted to his reunion with fresh clothes and a lighter spirit.
Day 5: Rain in Galicia – Dozón to Lalín & Lalín to Silleda
Rain is a faithful companion on the Camino. For Gus and his friends from Vancouver, it felt familiar. They walked through showers, found refuge in cafés, and enjoyed simple pleasures: bridges, villages, warm meals, and laughter.
“The rain is just a change of scenery,” Gus wrote, finding joy in the rhythm of wet boots and shared dinners.
Day 6: Silleda to Ponte Ulla – The Taste of Galicia
On a long but gentle walk, the group passed fields of cabbage, the base for caldo gallego, Galicia’s traditional soup. The anticipation of Santiago grew with every step.
“I miss it already,” Gus admitted in his diary, even before the final stage began.
Day 7: Arrival in Santiago de Compostela
On the last day, they covered 24 km to reach Praza do Obradoiro, the grand square before the cathedral. At 4 p.m., Gus and his companions stood at their destination.
A mix of relief, joy, and nostalgia filled the moment. The walk was over—but the memories, friendships, and reflections would stay with them.
Why Gus’s Story Matters
Gus’s diary shows the Camino exactly as it is: unpredictable, challenging, but filled with moments of generosity and meaning. From missing luggage to rainy days, from borrowed socks to toasts with friends, his Via de la Plata became uniquely his own.
👉 Would you like to share your Camino story? We’d love to hear it. Send your experience to Marta and inspire future pilgrims.
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FAQs
Q: How long is the Via de la Plata from Ourense to Santiago?
A: It’s about 100 km, the final section needed to earn your Compostela.
Q: Is the Via de la Plata difficult?
A: It has some steep climbs but is considered moderate compared to other routes.
Q: Can I walk the Via de la Plata in one week?
A: Yes, the Ourense to Santiago section is perfect for a 6–7 day journey.
Q: Do many pilgrims walk this route?
A: It’s less crowded than the Camino Francés, offering a quieter, more reflective experience.
Q: Can luggage transfers be arranged?
A: Yes, Camino luggage transfers make it easy to travel light and enjoy the walk.
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