Wow wow wow.

Today we had a relatively short 24 km day. The first 6 or 7 were all on asphalt and took us through one tiny little hamlet after another. At the end of our road walking, right before a steep two km descent to the Minho River, is a little 12th century church with some beautiful carving. Our favorite was the cow heads, which as Reb accurately described, are "sweet."  

Then came the descent on an old Roman mining road, known now as "Belesar's elbows" because of its shape. Once at the river level, you cross the bridge Andrade to ascend as much as you just descended. Amazing beautiful views, of river and forest and vineyards. 

On the way up the other side, a guy working in the fields invited us in to see the bodega's operations, from vineyards to aging to bottling. Very interesting. He took our picture and asked if he could post it on their Facebook page. So if you're ever looking at the Via Romana's Facebook page and see two familiar faces, you'll know why. 

We are now in the small city of Chantada, in a hotel that seems to have recently remodeled, leaving only half of its 60s decor. Clean and great showers, who cares about the style. 

I'm sure there are other days on other Caminos with as much beauty as this one, but today ranks right up there with the best of them.