4. Stage Camino del Norte from Liendo to Santona

Today I started later because the Posada I stayed at only served breakfast from 9:00 AM. What I personally found really cool was the big towel warmer. I could wash and dry all my clothes there. The owner told me at breakfast that today would be a great day. So, I could wear short clothes and should protect myself from the sun. She also mentioned that I should walk the Camino along the coast instead of the Camino that runs along the main road. She said I would have a great view of the coast and the surrounding towns. Naturally, I followed her advice.

So, around 10 AM, I set off towards the sea. I quickly found the signs for the Camino and followed them. At first, I walked through a small village that reminded me of the Allgäu. Brown cows were everywhere in the fields, and it smelled of fresh grass. Since I couldn't see the sea yet, it felt just like being in the Allgäu! The path then led into a woodland area, and I had to watch where I stepped, as there were larger rocks on the path. It went pleasantly uphill, and I felt the sun gradually fighting its way through the layer of clouds. It got warmer, so I slowed my pace a bit. What can I say: The owner wasn't exaggerating. When I reached the top of the mountain, I had an incredible view—it was amazing! I did not regret my choice to take this route. I opened my arms and thought of the movie Titanic; I had to laugh, but in that moment, I felt so free and happy.

From up there, I could see the towns of Laredo and Santona. I had to go through Laredo to reach my destination for today, Santona.

With a broad smile and feeling very satisfied, I went down the mountain on the other side. The path was narrow and a bit muddy. I slipped in cow dung and almost fell. Well, Daniela, that brings back memories... I just say: elephant piles and take-off. ;-) Laughing, I followed the yellow markers. However, I had to stop repeatedly. The landscape and the view were just beautiful.

In high spirits, I finally arrived in Laredo and greeted all the people I met with joyful smiles.

I really liked Laredo. The alleys had that southern flair again, and many locals were sitting outside their homes. The cathedral was also beautiful. Pilgrims get free entry there. After walking around for a while, I sat down outside at a bar and had something to eat. Then, I went to the tourist information and inquired about the ferry. I wanted to take the ferry to Santona. The lady told me I could walk five kilometers along the promenade, and the dock is on the beach.

When I reached the promenade, I didn't have to think long. I took off my shoes and socks and walked the entire way (5 KM) to the dock over the beach and through the water. It was simply amazing. For early June, the water wasn't cold at all. When I arrived at the dock, the ferry was just departing for Santona. It came quite quickly, and in less than five minutes, I was over in Santona. I really liked Santona too. Just as I was about to take a picture, the two French women from yesterday greeted me with big smiles. They asked me if I wanted to have a coffee. Of course, I wanted to; it was my chance to repay them for the water donation yesterday. I treated them to coffee. We had a nice conversation and enjoyed the sun.

I said goodbye because I wanted to head to a supermarket. When I arrived at the supermarket, of course, it was closed. They have strange opening hours here. I started a conversation with a woman who had a dog. It turned out she and her husband had moved from Australia to Spain with their dog four years ago. They thought it was great that I was walking the Camino. We had a very pleasant conversation. Then I said goodbye, and suddenly Arielle and Charlotte, the two French women, appeared next to me again. They asked where my hotel was, and I mentioned it was conveniently located about 1.8 km away, directly next to the Camino. We then walked together to my accommodation and wished each other all the best. The two still had to walk to another place. Arielle said we would definitely see each other again in Gümes. Yes, that could happen!

At the hotel, I freshened up before walking to a large supermarket. It was actually open! Incredible!

I spent the evening at the beach. There were countless surfers in the water.

Overall, I walked a fantastic 17.7 KM today :-).

Best wishes and a heartfelt birthday greeting to my sweet Littlefoot :-)