Camino Lessons-Simplicity

Simplicity just might be one of the greatest lessons I learn on the Camino. Before I even got on the plane, the Camino requires me to ask a very basic, but difficult question: What do I really need? Every item in the backpack and suitcase matters. Every extra pound eventually makes itself known. I very quickly […]

Camino Day 3

5/6/26 Leave Vila do Conde going to Agucadoura (7.5 mi) A shorter day! Day 3 on the Camino. A lighter stretch—about 7.5 miles. (actual miles—-10.5 miles) Easier on the legs and feet, but not exactly a visual highlight reel. We walked along miles of open ocean and sand. I love the ocean, but somewhere around […]

Day 2 on the Camino

5/5/26 Leave Aldeia Nova headed for Vila do Conde (9.9 mi) —- 14 miles logged No dialog needed here—the scenery says it all.

The Camino Begins

Just made it to the hotel—and my rolled ankle doesn’t like me….Sorgs are dealing with an injured old person.12.5 miles…..Hotel to hotel…..29,000+ steps. This is the reality after 6.5 hours of walking and some reminders of my age… And by “made it,” I mean I dragged what’s left of myself across the finish line and […]

Porto-the Final Day

We picked up our Camino stamps on our credentials, explored the beautiful Porto Cathedral, and wandered—no real plan, just enjoying one last evening. Somewhere along the way, the rain finally gave up, the sun broke through, and just like that, Porto gave us one more chance to experience Portugal…the history, the people, the food, the […]

Final Porto Day

Walking to our pickup location for a river wine cruise, the organization making location changes, playing the game and finally giving in and canceling—- admiring the charm of Porto in the rain and feeling really good about walking and the experiences to come … I missed a sidewalk. Not a big miss. Not dramatic. Just […]

São Bento Railway Station

There’s something about a train ride that feels different from every other kind of travel. No security lines, no turbulence, no seat belts, no rush from passsengers attempting to board faster than anyone else.  It is a fluid process, steady, quiet, and oddly comfortable. This morning, we left Lisbon behind—the  hills, the tiled buildings, its constant reminder […]

A New Day-Porto

You will find Porto along the banks of the Douro River. The buildings lean a little, the tiles tell stories of significant historical value…..and the streets—well, they climb. A lot.  Unfortunately we won’t be able to experience much of Porto this trip. We have other priorities. We found the Pilgrim Office and got our documents […]

Final Day in Lisbon

First—this city is not flat. Not even a little.  Between the hills, the stairs, and the cobblestone streets, I’m pretty sure Lisbon is preparing us for the Camino.Wow, all pain aside… this place is beautiful.  It was the perfect final day to explore. A nice breeze, sunny skies, music everywhere-perfect in every way, including the […]

Lisbon Day 2

Lisbon, I’m struggling with the words to capture such a delightful city.… it is day 2, and I still don’t quite have the words. It is a place to relax quietly, and determine the pace of the day. It unfolds its city treasures slowly—through steep hills that remind you of your years. The day allowed […]