LIVE from the Camino Chaos in Orbenlle and Porriño

[jefferyonthecamino]

At Orbenlle locals are still at it, expect to end up at their bars and through the Gándaras industrial estate (not the alternative route through the wooded area). There are dozens of arrows, crossed out arrows, defaced signs, etc. As you approach Orbenlle. At laest all the routes take you to Porriño.

The new river walk before you enter Porriño is much nicer than the previous one on the main road into town. However, it is poorly marked and can get confusing at times as, and although you are following the river, there are lots of paths that branch out, little bridges that cross the river and overall poor signage.

 

[Camembert]

So what have you done and you have some tips for us ?

 

[Magwood]

Take a look at this wonderful video to see the route you should be taking in order to follow the beautiful river walk rather than slog through the industrial area. I never tire of looking at this...

 

[karenhypes]

This video from Magwood is perfect. If you look at the video you will NOT have any problem getting through this section and avoiding the industrial areas. We walked it this May and I missed the first cut off (at the start of the video) but found it by going left at the bar you run into and circling around. It was confusing but worth it. The river path is also easy to find. Thanks......Dayton and Karen

 

[Camino Iris]

I will be walking this way at the end of September or early October on my first Camino. I have no knowledge of the area, but is there no way that the locals can still retain their livelihood? Is it possible to leave the new scenic route, pop over for a cuppa, and then return via one of these side paths and bridges?

 

[Biff]

I have heard (not confirmed) that the people at the cafe in Orbenlle will tell you of the alternative route (which you can get onto from the cafe) - but you will have to buy a coffee (or something). We found the 'original' detour so missed the cafe.

I can understand their problem - all those potential customers disappearing on the detour. They have a living to make, and it would seem they weren't consulted when the detour was proposed.

The detour is quite picturesque (in places) - but involves a lot of road walking. But I guess it's better than a straight road through a half-derelict industrial estate. The river side walk (at the outskirts of Porriño) is quite nice - don't cross the river. The path will lead directly to the albergue.

Biff