Day 5 on the Journey

May 8, 2026 — Esposende to Viana do Castelo
11.9 miles planned… 12.3 actual. Because apparently the Camino believes in stretching your pre-defined limits.

This portion of the pilgrimage felt much more like a true hike than a walk. We climbed through forested areas with enough elevation to remind us that Portugal has hills.

The trail wound through trees and flowers, along paths that looked exactly how you would imagine a forest should look—peaceful, green, damp from the rain, and untouched in places. And yes… there was rain. The weather channel was correct.

But honestly, the rain took nothing away from the enjoyment of the day.

The smell of fresh rain mixed with the evergreens was incredible. One of those simple moments you wish you could bottle up and take home with you.

So, another one in the books. Another day completed. Another day to be proud of.

And tonight?

My dogs are barking.