A shower and a very welcome sleep were deemed priorities when we were safely moored in the marina of the Monte Real Club de Yates, Bayona followed by a leisurely stroll in late afternoon sunshine around the walls of the peninsular by the Paradore de Baiona.
On Friday, Katy, the final boat to arrive moored to a loud cheer from everyone just as we were abut to be taken to Vigo so UK passport holders could be checked in to Spain. Steve stayed in Vigo so he could meet Judith at the airport. Maz, Nick and WIlly returned to the good ship Bolero to give her a clean and wash down. Bolero crew was once again quorate when Steve and Judith arrived. All rally crews enjoyed a sangria on the balcony of the yacht club and then a lovely dinner at a local restaurant.
Saturday saw another bus ride, this time to Santiago de Compostela where we were given a guided tour of the cathedral and the old university by Begonia, a very knowledgeable guide. The day became warmer and the sun came out as the tour ended and we wandered the streets settling in a subterranean cafe frequented by locals for an amazing paella.
Sunday gave everyone a day to relax and enjoy Bayona (in the rain!). The prize giving was held in evening sunshine on the sheltered balcony of the Yacht Club. We were deemed the overall winners of the leg from Plymouth to Bayona having sailed all the way. We will enjoy our bottle of Albarino very soon! This was followed by another Galician dinner in the splendour of the Yacht Club and a chance to acquaint ourselves with the crews of the boats joining the rally here in Spain
Yesterday (Monday) we joined a trip to the Celtic remains on Santa Tegra Hill from where we looked over the border, the River Mino, to Portugal. We then travelled on to the El Folon mills comprising 67 watermills.The views from the steep rugged path were stunning. We looked over to the estuary of the river and the Santa Tegra Hill to the Portuguese golden beaches and blue seas. Willy would like to say a big thank you to Manel for keeping him company and helping him on the way down.
The 2 hour walk was rewarded with a delicious lunch served in a local restaurant, the Painter’s House. A really lovely day out.
Today’s departure to Povoa De Varzim has been postponed in anticipation of a following northerly wind tomorrow rather than the southerly headwinds and rain of today…. this is a holiday after all! Tomorrow we are likely to be motoring as there is very little wind, but fingers crossed, it will be dry.
We are hoping to sample some of the heat that the rest if the Iberian peninsular is enjoying soon. We are currently enjoying weather more reminiscent of home.
Fair winds
Nick, Maz, Steve, Judith and Willy