To Luarca

September 26

To Luarca 18km

We slept in today because breakfast was not served until 8:30. Yesterday and today we were encouraged to visit the lookout to Cadavedo Beach. So in the morning, without backpacks, we took the 1km trek. I'm glad we did. It was an amazing sight, a rugged coast with sandy beaches. When we returned we got our backpacks and started the trek at 10am. The latest start to date. Today's Camino followed the coastline and the ocean was always in sight. We passed through a few small villages and today was exceptional for Julie. There were more homes to date with cats in the yard. One home had 15 cats/kittens. The owner brought out food so we could take a photo of all his cats. As we entered the town of Luarca we were worried at first because we could not see any hotel signs. But what a surprise when we turned the corner. Below in the harbour was a spectacular sight of fishing boats, hotels, bars, restaurants and apartments. We had found paradise!

First cat encounter today. Below is their play area

Cadavedo lookout

Mud every where!

This dog was looking for attention, just like the cat was getting.

Shaun the sheep

Strange ears.

Luarca harbour

To Cadavedo

September 25

To Cadavedo 24k

Before leaving town we stopped at a hotel restaurant, as did many other peregrinos. The owner was extremely friendly and helped us by directing to a new Camino trail, that was closer to the coast rather than following the older mountain trail. He was adamant that the new trail was shorter, but definitely not easier. There were four sections with descents to river beds and of course four ascents back. A very beautiful trek, but exhausting!  When we arrived to Cadavedo we found a hotel Casa Roja, which was built in 1889 and restored. The room and bath area was spacious and modern, and the rest of the house has retained its original charm. Being 2km from the beach it must be busy during the summer months. The yard is big with many lounge chairs to sit and read. 

To Soto de Luina

September 24

To Soto de Luina 22km

This was an up and down day? We started with a steep climb in the morning and another at noon, with very few rest stops. The trek today went through coastal villages and the ocean sometimes appearing in the distance. The trail also went through forests of primarily eucalyptus trees, with some trees 4-foot in diameter. Some low areas on the trail were covered in water and mud, making it a challenge to pass, but overall the trails were good as they were shaded by the tall trees. We found our hotel which was converted from a home and clothes making business and still owned by the same family. The decor theme reflects its previous clothing business in the 1960s- with it's pictures, dress-making forms, sewing machines and other antiques for that era.   Every day is a surprise and today was delightful!

This hotel is for the birds. As they've all gone south, it's now closed.

Hotel Casa Vieja de Sastre

To Soto del Barco

September 23

To Soto del Barco 19km

It's not always easy to find the way out of town to find the camino trail and it is amazing how helpful the locals are. Today we had a elderly man walk 3 blocks to ensure we were on the right path. We travelled through rolling hills following a forest trail. There were spectacular views of the many valleys and waterways. Today's trek was cut short by 4km. We found a 4-star hotel that we could not resist. The lobby was so beautiful and the room fantastic - spacious and comfy. What a treat!

Our stay at Hotel Palacio de la Magdalena