[Gocamino] Finally

[Rosina]

Our e-knigh in shining armor, Grant,  has come to the rescue again.  The picture of the old and new Rio Castro bridge can be seen at.  It will amaze you.

http://www.elcaminosantiago.com/Rosina/Puente_Rio_Castro.jpg
I couldn't agree more with the pilgrim who wrote that those intending to walk only the last 100 kms or so would be infinitely better off, and happier walking from Ourense to Santiago (Sarria has become undistinguishable from a carnival). The Camino from Ourense is absolutely lovely in its greenery and rivers.... besides, that is sort-of the was followed by Santiago's two disciples who brought his body to the Santiago environs.
The food in that area is magnificent (there is a little town called "bread town", another called "cheese town", another called "wine town", and they all live up to their names. That is also the region where "pimentos del Padron" are grown.  The albergues are clean and specious and not overcrowded; the one close to Puente Ulla, close to Santiago, is on a mountain-side leading to the river, the roof of the sleeping area is composed of tree branches and pilgrims are lulled to sleep by the murmurs of the river near by.  A few leafy steps away there is a tavern which must date back to Don Quixote times.  One sits on old barrels sipping, or quaffing, a local wine which is the  total and definite cure for tiredness, blisters, muscle aches, or anything else that remotely might discomfort a pilgrim.
.....Well, enjoy the picture, and thanks a lot dear Grant.  What would one do without you?
Hugs!
Rosina