Walking Spain’s famous pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela offers more than just physical and mental challenges; it provides an opportunity to intimately experience the country’s diverse landscapes. From battling the elements in the Pyrenees of Navarre to the rolling hills of Galicia, and from the lively festivals of Pamplona to the historic architecture of Burgos, the 780-kilometer journey allows you to immerse yourself in Spain’s scenery, culture, and history.
Throughout her hike on the Camino de Santiago, Ava Kabouchy encountered both friends and inconveniences. On her next stop, she visited Casa Magica in Villatuerta, a 400-year-old pilgrim hostel where she enjoyed a vegetarian meal with a young woman from Korea and a man from California who yearly returns to continue his journey. Casa Magica offered a sunny courtyard for relaxation and an archway leading to a meditative room. Ava decided to extend her stay for an extra night.
While writing in her journal at Casa Magica, Ava met a Brazilian woman living in northern California. They discussed their motives for walking the Camino. The next day, Ava walked alone to Irache, where pilgrims can enjoy free water and wine from two fountains. Later, she took a train from Villatuerta to Sarria for the final 100 kilometers. An “angel” in the form of a kind driver helped her reach the bus station on a day with limited bus service.
The train ride to Sarria offered a break from walking and a chance to reflect. Along the way, Ava met Rachel from Iowa, and they stayed at a nearly empty monastery. Due to rain, they spent a day at the monastery, enjoying lunch and local wine. For the next two days, they walked together before Rachel rejoined her group.
Navigating the Camino, Ava experienced a detour onto a highway with heavy traffic before finding her way back to the path. She walked through eucalyptus forests and tree tunnels, greeted by the friendly “Buen Camino” from fellow travelers. Lightening candles for her family in small churches along the way gave her a sense of connection and reassurance.
In Ribadiso, Ava encountered bedbugs at an albergue, which led to a visit to the pharmacy for treatment. Despite this minor setback, she enjoyed editing photos and journaling during her stay.
Throughout her journey, Ava interacted with various people, some of whom mention being married. Her friend suggested these encounters might relate to the concept of ‘trail husbands,’ similar to relationships formed on the Appalachian Trail. The idea amused Ava, adding a humorous twist to her adventure.
Ava’s love of maps as a child sparked her lifelong passion for travel. She worked in several African countries, helped form a women’s microcredit group in Honduras, volunteered in Guatemala, and recently completed the Camino de Santiago. Ava is also an author, having written books about her travels and life experiences. She splits her time between southwest France and a remote island off the coast of Maine, USA.
suansuan