Day Ten: Vila Nova Barquina to Tomar

Today is going to be 20k (12 miles) but promises to have some challenging navigating through the eucalyptus forest.  Eucalyptus is grown in Portugal and Spain in tree farms but I haven't worked out what it's used for.  Some people are a bit put off by seeing trees growing in rows.  The tree plots also are monocultures.  But from the perpective of a weary pilgrim, it's shady and they really are beautiful, strange looking trees.

This area is criss-crossed with logging roads and one plot after another is clearcut. That makes establishing a permanent trail a real challenge.  Markers can't be put on trees becuase a year from now the tree may disappear.  The Spanish use concrete mileposts but the Portuguese camino is still a work in progress and is improving year by year.

Another crossroad in the Great Eucalyptus Forest and I stood looking for a sign.  See the little yellow arrow.  This is perhaps the most important symbol of the camino for me.  On the camino in Spain, all one has to do is follow the crowd.  Here in Portugal there is no crowd and so every yellow arrow is a blessing.  Below is another one.

A flower garden to brighten up the way.