The first kilometres out of Melide smell of eucalyptus and damp earth. Ahead of you is a line of rucksacks. From here you share the way with the Camino Francés, so it’s suddenly busier than on the Primitivo. You’ll get used to it quickly. You say hello, have a quick chat, and walk on.
The day is an easy one. The terrain is rolling, through woodland, past meadows and through small villages, with more descents than climbs. Your knees will notice that before your lungs do. After a good 4 hours you walk into Arzúa, where there is a public albergue. The afternoon is then yours: time for your washing, your feet and a café terrace.