Phase 3 - To the sea! (Santiago to Muxia 90 km)
After about 1150 km over 50 walking days, I've reached my planned destination, the Atlantic Ocean.
The three days I walked to complete this phase of my journey were quiet. With the exception of two hours on the first day with Marcel from France, I walked alone for the 90 km. It was beautiful. I started the last two days under cover of darkness and although I did not get a magnificent sunrise, I did manage to see a few stars this morning. Although the initial forecast predicted rain on all three days, I experienced nothing but pleasant weather throughout this phase.
From the first day, most of the pilgrims I saw were headed back to Santiago so other than a brief 'ola' and 'buen Camino,' no words were spoken. Two years ago I walked the first two days of this route with Dan and there were many familiar sights which brought up some great memories. The scenery today was completely new and after many days of walking, my body was strong and I easily tackled the hills. I felt great. My first view of the Atlantic Ocean was beautiful. Off in the distance I could see the Muxia lighthouse which was just over 7 km away and this quickened my steps with excitement.
After arriving in the familiar town, I went straight to the lighthouse point to savour the sun, surf and sound. The wind was strong and with my pack acting like a sail, it pushed me around quite a bit. I enjoyed my time on the rocks.
I saw our German friend Anica twice at rest stops over the last two days and here at Muxia, we enjoyed a wonderful picnic dinner and a sunset watch with her friends Tina and Philipp. Although we did not get the sunset we were hoping for, we had a great time and enjoyed the beautiful views of the town and the ocean. To spend time with these fellow pilgrims was a great way to end my walking journey and I thoroughly enjoyed my evening with them.
All of the time spent alone on this latest phase has given me plenty of time to reflect on all that has happened to me, all the incredible people I've met, and the amazing scenery I've witnessed. It had also given me many things to think about as I ponder my future. When I finally return home, I will have some research to do and some decisions to make. My walking may be done for now but my journey is far from over.
