Curiosity often gets the better of me. When I discovered, on my visit to Vila Nova de Milfontes at the mouth of the River Mira, that ‘Ode’ means river and that the small town of Odemira is situated a small way inland … well, I was curious. The intention had been to follow the coast back down to the Algarve, sampling beaches along the way. Well, we definitely did that, but a small side trip to Odemira was called for.
One of the attractions, mentioned in my ‘Rough Guide’, was a riverside walk. That sounded appealing. I also knew that there was a boat trip connecting Odemira with Vila Nova de Milfontes, but sadly that wasn’t practical on our way south. There’s always time for a little stroll though.
It was quite easy to park, on rough ground down by the river, and cross over the bridge to this peaceful little path, which we had all to ourselves.
The riverside walk was shorter than I had expected, so there was plenty of time to saunter around the little town. It seemed to me so typically Portuguese. A mix of dilapidation and renewal. There was scaffolding up at several of the larger buildings. Freshly white-painted grandeur nudged sadly peeling properties, still awaiting their turn. In the small, ‘sell everything’ shops, life continued as it must have for generations. Just off the Praca da Republica, the main square, the coffee habit was indulged. Shopping could wait.
Before I know it, I’m passing a new-looking sculpture in a small square and a handful of modern shops. Rather incongruous, but part and parcel of Portugal today. In very little time I’m back at the river bank and the lovely bridge. Too soon?
Our walk today was not at all taxing so feel free to stop en route for coffee. You’ll easily find an appealing cafe. I hope you enjoyed joining me. Later this week I’ll do a round up of those west coast beaches in the Alentejo, and then it’s full speed back to the Algarve.
If you’re in the area, Odemira is on the N393. Travelling south from Vila Nova de Milfontes, you hopefully can’t miss it.
Time to share this week’s walks. Thank you very much everybody. I’ve had a wonderful response. If you’d like to join in there are a few hints on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo. I never turn anyone away. Why would I? Let’s get walking!
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You know I love to start with Drake. This week he has some incredible views :
And Geoff was quick off the mark too. Blue skies in Tooting Bec?
Capital Ring : Tooting to Earlsfield
Our lovely Jude was lakeside walking this week. There’s a bench, of course!
Amy and Jude are sharing park life this week- thousands of miles apart. Great minds! :
Jackie took me to Bantry Bay. Some distant damp day memories for me :
Did I ever tell you that I love squirrels? Thanks, Becky!
Chipmunks, squirrels and a groundhog!
And how did Becky know I’ve always wanted to visit this place?
DON’T miss this one, or its sequel, from Pauline :
The magic of a dream come true
The Buddha Walk at the Crystal Castle
Don’t you love it when they breathe new life into a place? Many thanks for sharing, Kaz :
Travel Album: Distillery District, Toronto
There are few pleasures in life better than sharing with Meg :
Eurobodalla beaches: Congo beach south
And the landscape on this one is equally stunning!
Lastly, I’m extremely honoured to have this guy join us. He’s living a lifestyle many would consider idyllic (with the odd misadventure along the way)
Tampak Siring : Bathing in the Sacred Springs
Hope I haven’t missed anybody? This past week was tricky but I’m still here. The sun’s shining so you know what I’m going to do after coffee, don’t you? Happy walking everyone! See you next week?
Another lovely walk in Portugal, Jo. I like what you say: “a mix of dilapidation and renewal.” So true, and it’s what makes Portugal so charming. 🙂
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I didn’t know what to expect of this sleepy little place, Cathy, but we enjoyed our stroll. 🙂
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These blue skies are encouraging me to start thinking about next years holiday (or dreaming about one anyway!) Ah what bliss to be walking in the sunshine. The buildings look so bright and colourful with the sun bouncing off them. Great capture of the light on the water. Here’s to lovely adventures and discovering local charm.
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I love to plan too! 🙂 It doesn’t always work quite to plan but there’s usually a happy outcome. Many thanks to you 🙂
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Love those bridges Jo! I could stand on a bridge and watch the scenery for yours.
Here’s my latest walk you might like to consider: http://discoveringbelgium.com/2015/10/17/grey-day-in-grez-doiceau/
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Morning Denzil 🙂 You’re just in time. I’ll pop over in a few minutes.
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I love these little walks and detours through the Portuguese towns and villages Jo! Can’t get enough of the blue and white buildings – the colours just work so well with the sky and the sunshine. Coffee in one of those old streets or squares would be delightful too 🙂
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Coming back down to earth with a bump soon, Rosemay, but it’s nice while it lasts. 🙂 Just 4 weeks until I can return.
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Really enjoying your walks in Portugal and I’ve found so many other great blogs thanks to this, here’s my walk for next week http://studentinsnowdonia.com/2015/08/09/a-tale-of-two-peaks-part-2/
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There are so many great blogs out there! Keeping up with everyone isn’t easy. 🙂 Many thanks!
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Nice pics Jo and what a lovely place !
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Thanks, Divya! 🙂 How have you been?
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WOW! This is a truly incredible place. Those white alleys look unreal 🙂
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Newly painted, some of them, Jazz 🙂 It was a nice little spot. Thanks for your company!
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Dimitri looks like a peaceful and lovely little town. There is something special about those white buildings framed in blue. As always you photos are beautiful.
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Thank you so much, Otto! I was engrossed in photos of the coastline when you commented. Portugal definitely has me under its spell. 🙂
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I just love the painted blue and white against the bright blue sky, your photos capture the setting beautifully. I so enjoyed this beautiful river walk and that bench is in a gorgeous location. I could sit there right now, given half the chance… 🙂
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It was a miserable morning here, Sherri, and I was wishing I was there too. The sun’s out now but I’m keeping an eye on Rafa in Shanghai. (no, I haven’t given up just yet 🙂 )
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You are doing better than me, I haven’t watched Rafa in a while…hope the sun shines on you today Jo 😀
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I enjoyed today’s walk so much, Jo. Your photos are, as always, gorgeous. 🙂
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I try to keep a balance between endless beaches and all the interesting nooks and crannies but I get carried away sometimes. Thanks a lot, Jet 🙂
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I enjoyed your walk whilst eating breakfast this morning. A lovely stroll and beautiful architecture.
Here is link for my contribution this week … http://wp.me/p4X4U3-yk
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Lovely walk, Jo!! I wouldn’t mind joining you for coffee. ☕️🍰
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It was a little sedate for you, Lucile. We could find somewhere more lively 🙂
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I like to rest too. It doesn’t need to be always lively. 😀
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Ok! There were plenty of empty tables 🙂
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Do you think that there can be any one livelier and lovelier than you to have a coffee with? I doubt.
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Oo-er! You must be thinking of someone else 🙂 🙂 You are much too nice to me, Lucile. Some day I’ll come and buy you that coffee. (and just maybe… cake 🙂 )
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No, I’m not!
If you come, the cake and coffee is on me!! 🙂
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quite a relaxed and easy walk Jo! such a charming little place. love the bridges and great captures as always! 🙂
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Got to put in an easy one now and then, LolaWi. 🙂 Keeps everyone happy!
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Looks lovely 🙂
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A nice little spot, untroubled by the world. 🙂 Thanks for joining me!
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