Day 5: Viana do Castelo - Rest Day

I decided not to walk today. Not for any physical reason. Mentally, I just wasn't prepared to get up and go right away after falling into bed when we got here last night. Contributing factors were the fact the forecast was for a very hot sunny 28 degree day plus, according to the German guide book, this is supposed to be one of the more interesting towns along the Portuguese Camino. 

I lingered over breakfast to wish my companions from yesterday a good Camino then I puttered around for a while.  My roommate last night, Claudia from Germany, is also taking a day off   She is planning to take a train this evening to her next stop. We decided to explore the town together. 

A lovely small old church in the town

A very impressive modern church/monument atop the hill overlooking the town. 

A fun street 

A long relaxing lunch in the shade. 

Smoked sausage and egg - where are the veggies???

My roommates from Fao were also taking a day of rest and we ran into them at the church. After lunch we all went our separate ways for a while and then I met up with the girls for a late supper. We will walk together tomorrow, at least part of the way. 

It was good to stop and breathe for a day. I have only one more day in Portugal and then I will be crossing into Spain. My Camino is coming to its half way point.