The Alternativo (Green Routes)

Many Pilgrims use the same guide book to hike the Camino. John Brierley's book is in its 13th printing and has been translated into a number of languages.   The Pilgrim routes tend to be close to the major roads and sometimes parallel the highways.   Alternative roads are proposed for a number of the stages and every time we took one it was a winner.  Most folks just follow the main route so it really changes the feel of your walk for a day or two.  I highly recommend them.  

Paul and I took one on the Messetta were we walked virtually alone for two half day sessions.   A nice break at a time we appreciated the solitude.   We still met folks once we arrived at our destination but we walked the road less traveled and enjoyed every step.  By mid morning on the second day we were ready to re-engage and quickly connected with old friends to share coffee, beers and engaging conversation.   

 

Coming out of Villafranca - Chris and I were walking with Fiona (Australia) and I mentioned another Green Alternativo that would require a steep climb but provide amazing views. The book added that the locals strongly discourage using this route.   Julia, Taylor and I had missed the turn off for this route back in 2013 and walked an uneventful day near the busy road - so I pushed for grabbing it this time.  The climb was steep but the views breath taking.   I was concerned about my recommendation when it continued to climb for another full ninety minutes and the route was pasted with signs to call "112" the emergency number if any issues.  I had not seen such signs anywhere along the Camino.    But our climb eventually took us through lovely chestnut tree groves and into a very small hamlet where we treasured a cerveza and ham sandwich.    We managed a long slow descent into Trabedelo and never saw another Pilgrim all day.  

 

  So the day went from jubilation to anxiety to jubilation.  The alternative routes once again exceeded our expectations and left us feeling like we had an experience (albeit a demanding one) that was quite unique among our Pilgrim Friends.   It is wonderful to interact with a wide variety of folks each day - but solitude is a wonderful change along this 35 day adventure.   

In life we will regret more the things we did not do then the things we did do.  Carpe Diem.   Probably the best hiking day to date!