Sept 28- Lugo

“Though the road may be long, even a distant glimpse of where you are going can light the way.” — Unknown

Today’s trail carried us out of the quiet village and into a patchwork of small farmlands and winding country roads. We passed quaint stone houses with tidy gardens, fields alive with the earthy scent of freshly turned soil, and air touched by the sweet smell of grass and woodsmoke. Birds filled the morning with song, their calls echoing through the hedgerows and open fields. Step by step, surrounded by these simple yet vivid moments, the path drew us closer to our destination..the historic city of Lugo

History lesson for those that are interested: Lugo is one of Spain’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with roots stretching back to the Celtic tribes who worshipped the god Lugus. Founded by the Romans around the turn of the 1st century, it quickly became an important settlement thanks to its resources and strategic location. Its most famous legacy is the 3rd-century Roman walls, which are still intact today and encircle the historic center.

Little by little, the long country roads gave way to stretches of asphalt, and the humble farmhouses we had been passing slowly transformed into larger, more modern homes. With each step, the landscape shifted, signaling that the countryside was behind us and the historic city of Lugo was drawing near.

Turns out my knee wanted its own say on this Camino…it’s been grumbling about all the climbs and demanded some extra attention. So, I got it a fancy new brace to keep it happy for the next few days. Nothing serious, just my body reminding me that even knees like to take a break now and then.

Reaching Lugo brought with it a powerful milestone..the 100-kilometer marker. To stand before it and realize that Santiago de Compostela is now within reach, filled me with both awe and gratitude. What once felt like a distant goal is now a tangible horizon, and I can hardly believe how quickly the days, steps, and shared moments have carried us here.

Lugo struck me as a city where past and present live side by side in harmony …ancient walls guarding streets filled with the rhythms of everyday life. Walking through it reminded me how the Camino isn’t only about reaching Santiago, but also about pausing to appreciate the places and moments along the way. I could see myself returning here someday, not to hurry on, but to linger and let the city reveal itself more fully.

My thoughts: Reaching Lugo feels like a deeply meaningful milestone. In just two days we will join the Camino Francés …the very route where countless pilgrims have walked before me, and where my own first Camino began. Knowing that Santiago is now within reach stirs both excitement and a touch of sadness, because the end is drawing near. More than ever, I want to linger in each step, to hold onto the small moments, and to be fully present for the final stretch of this journey. As always the gift to be on this journey never goes unappreciated.