With Bilbao, I reached the destination of this journey. Nevertheless, the last stretch had its challenges. After a bit of nature, the path ran for kilometers alongside a fast road through industrial areas and urban structures. Particularly challenging was the crossing of Monte Avril (382 m), after which it was done and the view opened up to the Basque metropolis in the valley.
Behind me lay 150 km, which I conquered in six days. A distance that could be covered by car in less than two hours. It was more than 600 km to Santiago de Compostela, which would require about four more weeks - without me. Both my body and the weather had favored a good course. Relief and disillusionment mixed together. In the big city, the hiking community dispersed. Here, one was a tourist again.
As such, I immediately immersed myself in the tourist program. Next stop: Guggenheim! Many different viewpoints from the outside and modern art, playful and Instagram-worthy, from the inside. The visit for 12,- was entertaining. I took my time and let my thoughts wander, resulting in me thinking of The Simpsons.
In the series, there was an episode where Frank Gehry designs a concert hall for Springfield. The inspiration for the design of the building was a crumpled piece of paper. Since the concert hall lost its appeal after a performance, the Springfielders sought a repurposing. The building was converted into a prison and Homer was hired as a guard.
I spent the evening in the hostel. The look in the mirror revealed that the day's strains (27 km and Frank Gehry) had not left me unscathed. By 11 PM, I was ready for bed.
