I Went Out Through The Bathroom Window

Albergues can be a bit quirky! Considering how many pilgrims leave early in the morning, some Albergues don't unlock their doors until 7 am. As I like to get on the road by 6:30 or so, this can be a problem. Most Albergues at least have a side door for early travelers to use.

This morning, packed and ready to go, there was no usual side door. I did notice a window in the bathroom just off the lobby. So, the question was, do I sit on the staircase for 30 minutes waiting, or do I climb out the window. A minute later I was on the road and heading out for the day. 

My walk up to O'Cebreiro marks my last day in the mountains. Tomorrow, I head downhill and then a pretty flat, easy five days into Santiago. Once again, my Adirondack legs propelled me past most of the hikers climbing up to O'Cebreiro. Five miles uphill was just an easy walk in the park! The hard days are now over!

I entered Galicia this morning, the last Spanish province I go through. On top of the mountain here is is really quite windy and chilly. However, I just finished a hot, rich vegetable soup known as a caldo gallego. Tonight, I try another regional specialty - pulpo (octopus). 

Tonight, I have a bed in the municipal albergue or xunta. No reservations possible, so it's first come first served for the 100 beds. I was number 8 in line. Just an hour and a half after opening, it's almost full as are the hotels here in O'Cebreiro. Apparently, the early bird gets the worm.