Jo’s Monday walk

Jo’s Monday walk : Ribeira de Algibre

The first place you would think to look for a captivating mural is a sleepy Algarvean village in Portugal, isn’t it? No- me neither! But it was one of the highlights of a recent walk in Ribeira de Algibre. Situated north west of Loule and not far from the village of Boliqueime, this is walk no. 17 in Julie Statham’s book, “Let’s Walk Algarve”.

The chief criteria for this walk was that it was level, and not too long, the other half having sustained a limp. I could, of course, have left him with his feet up, reading a book, but he insisted on being gallant. There’d be ample time to read later. Out past the quarry we went, left through the village of Parragil, then left again. We parked, as instructed in the book, just past the bridge, and slap bang next to the most amazing wall.

The owner of Vila Dias must have an artistic nature, and a sense of humour. Reluctantly I turned my back on it to follow the trail, just before the bridge. We are in an area of olive groves and vineyards, with lofty bamboo screening off the narrow river.

The path twists and turns, revealing shallow riverbed on one side and regimented rows of vines on the other. I pounce with glee on a small clump of white flowers- early narcissi, cushioned in luxuriant green, and guarded by ancient olives. 1000 years of age is not uncommon for these gnarled beauties, weatherbent by the sharp winds.

The soil is it’s usual, rich red and deep puddles occasionally surprise. Neither of us can remember any rain. All is still and calm when, out of nowhere, the carefree sound of pop music on a radio. We exchange smiles and hum along, peering to see where the sound is coming from. Around each bend we gaze expectantly, but there is no sign of the music maker, and gradually the sound fades into the distance.

One of the advantages of this walk is that it is split into two halves, circles that begin and end in the village. Each takes only about 45 minutes, and there is a cafe where you might linger before starting the second half. Except that, of course, Cafe Ribeira is closed. Perhaps later in the year? Not a soul is stirring, though a horse gives us a good long look.

I consult the other half, who has limped gamely along. We might as well do the other half, he says, and so we do. The path leads behind a house, on the other side of the road, and the book directs us to look for an abandoned mill.

The trail continues, partly by the river and then into more woodland. Deep in a thicket of olives we spot a herd of goats and I try to edge nearer without giving the alarm. Not entirely successful, but I manage a couple of shots.

All is tranquillity. We are passed, twice, by the same cyclist, obviously doing his morning rounds. In the vineyards we see 3 or 4 people working, clearing and burning dead branches. It’s a wonderful, pastoral scene.

As we approach the river again, suddenly the sound of the transistor radio fills the air. We gaze all around expectantly, but still, no-one is to be seen. A shy picnicker, perhaps? Smiling we return to the village. The sun has changed position and I’m drawn again into the world of the mural.

Even the bus shelter was pretty! That’s it for another week. I hope you enjoyed walking with me. Let’s get the kettle on and enjoy that cuppa now. And for you sympathetic souls, let me reassure you that ‘the limp’ was much better next day.

Thanks everybody, for keeping me company again, and for your generous support and contributions. Anyone can join in with a walk of their own, long or short. Details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page. You’ll be more than welcome.

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A place with a whole heap of history. Let Lady Lee show you around :

A week in Malta

You’ve all got time for this one! Thanks, Eunice :

A quick afternoon walk

Woolly has progressed to Amsterdam and windmills :

Jo’s-Monday-Walk-Wk-04

Something you do with a Silver Cross pram, Anabel?

Perambulations in Perth

Jackie’s determined to walk me into the ground this week!

San Antonio, Texas

Lisa has some interesting graffiti for you, in Tel Aviv :

Florentin

Kate takes on a scary climbing challenge in Scotland :

Munro Bagging in the Arrochar Alps

Not so much a walk as a series of reminiscences from Geoff :

A Time in Africa- part one

Drake knows I have a weakness for Samso. It’s so easy to see why :

Return for a walk

Yvette has a fascinating art challenge going on so I’m chuffed she could make time for me!

Walk with Jo : Mom’s Siam Carytown (Day 54 0f 365 Days of Art)

Fancy another challenge yourself? Jaspa has all the details :

Sam’s Ses Challenge #5 : Mountain

I’ve done this one before, but not the right way around. Typical! Thanks, Becky :

Remembering Gilda amongst the Almond Blossom

Jude delights me with a walk in her neck of the woods. Could this be the year I get to Cornwall?

A Winter Walk

Have a great week! Here in the UK there’s just a chance that Spring is in the air. Wherever you are, try to get out and enjoy it.

Jo’s Monday walk : Lagoão Trail

I do like to have a bit of fun on a walk, and for me that invariably means water. When the guide book says that the river might not be fordable after heavy rainfall, I picture great torrents. But this is, after all, the Algarve, and the prospect of being swept away downstream is not huge. The only way to find out is to follow the trail and see.

So it was that we parked up, between the football ground and the fire station, in the wonderfully somnolent village of São Marcos da Serra. Our destination that day was the hilltop village of Alferce, site of yet another magnificent Presepio de Natal, this one with life-sized figures. The Lagoão Trail was almost en route, so it was decided to ‘make a day of it’.

This is a nicely level, circular 10km walk, initially following the river. Much of the scenery has a soft Autumn tinge to it on this January day. A great billow of smoke announces a farmer, burning off dead wood and shrubs. The delicate pink of a rose bush delights my eye.

Before too long we approach the ford, which I’m happy to say is fordable. Mick goes first, in his sturdy boots. While I’m fiddling about taking my shoes off, a car splashes through, catching me completely by surprise.

I linger to gaze into the swirling waters, lapping clear and cool at my bare toes. The river is moving quite swiftly, creating gurgly pools in its midst. Satisfied with my brief plodge, I follow the trail, admiring the wispy fronds of toffee-coloured tamarisk.

Soon a junction is reached. Consulting the map it’s obvious that the walk can be shortened, but the reservoir beautifully reflects the umbrella pines and it’s too tempting to continue to walk beside it.

The trail winds away from the reservoir and past a couple of tired-looking farms. A posse of cats try to outstare me, in that way that cats do. Distracted by them, and trying to photograph a heap of drying cork, I fail to notice the dog till it’s leaping and snarling at my side. My protector has his toe boot at the ready, and fortunately it backs off.

Hurrying on around the bend, I catch the tinkling of a bell. I anticipate goats, but it is in fact another dog. A much more laidback character, this sheepdog scarcely looks in my direction, but he has an ear cocked for his charges. They watch me with curiosity, from the other side of the wall.

The final stretch of the walk turns back beside the river. I’m quite surprised to find a railway track ahead but, checking my map, it appears the line runs north to Beja in the Alentejo.

As often happens, the road back into the village involves a bit of uphill, but there are gleaming white chimney pots to distract, and even an iris, peeping out of foliage. A couple of villagers sit on the steps of their houses, in the sleepy warmth. In the main square a few benches are occupied, next to the pretty little church. I peer into a shop window at a Nativity scene made entirely of cork. Not easy to photograph! A sign at the community centre indicates a main display inside, but it won’t open until 3.00, and I’ll be gone.

A glint of sunlight draws me towards the Christmas tree. It’s made from recycled plastics. A brilliant idea, and one we could all copy.

The only restaurant appears to be closed, but there’s a tiny cafe where a tumbler of wine and a cake costs very little. Duly fortified, it’s down through the village and back across the river. The empty car park is now overflowing and it appears it’s ‘match day’. Young, fit bodies mill about and it’s time to reluctantly move on.

This walk features at page 100 of the Walking Trails in the Algarve, where you will find a map and details. Time to put the kettle on?

Many thanks to you all for continuing to share your walks with me, no matter what the weather. Details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page, and everyone’s welcome!

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I rarely turn down a good scone. I guess Anabel knows that :

A stroll in the grounds of Scone Palace

Say hello to Eunice, please? A Meccano bridge and Mandarin duck make a pleasing combination :

A New Year canal walk

A familiar theme- Capability Brown- from Lady Lee :

Stowe House

Going prospecting with Liesbet!

Things to see in the Northern Gold Country

Jackie explores an inspiring garden :

Albin Polasek Sculpture Gardens

A boat, a beach hut and a lighthouse with Stephanie in Puget Sound :

A Walk through Point No Point County Park

I really enjoyed looking at Brugge with Woolly. Have you missed any of his posts?

Jo’s-Monday-Walk 17-Brugge-4

Just a tiny bit jealous of Becky, who’s back in the Algarve, walking, on my behalf!

More than a glimpse of the Guadiana

It won’t be so warm in this country! Play a game with Biti?

Guess what country?

London Wlogger is doing a grand job of hosting walks around our capital, including part of my old stomping ground :

Mile End Park to London Fields : Exploring Parks of the 19th and 21st Century

And are you familiar with When in my Journeys? This is a lovely walk!

A walk on the streets of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Sometimes photography can be pure poetry. Paula is surely mistress of the art form :

Braving the Elements with Grace

We’ve had some ferocious weather this month. Drake examines the debris around the Baltic :

Day after a hard stormy day

Denzil tells a sorry tale, but all’s well that ends well :

Sint-Agatha-Rode and the patron saint of breast cancer

And Carol finds something really rather mysterious in Cornwall :

A Secret Place

Not so much a walk as a seal fan club, with beautiful photos. Thanks, Susan!

Seal Walk

That’s it for another week. I hope you enjoyed sharing. Take good care of yourselves!

Jo’s Monday walk : Enchanting Castro Marim

The period just after Christmas can be an enchanting time to be in the Algarve. Especially if you are lucky and the skies are awash with blue. Each of the towns and villages have their own Presepio de Natal or Nativity scene, and these vary from life size models to much simpler displays in a church, or a shop window. I hope to share a few of these with you, but today we’re taking a short walk to find a rather special one.

You may remember Castro Marim as the scene of a remarkable Medieval Fair each August. The town lies right at the border with Spain, looking out over the River Guadiana. Alongside the river lie a series of centuries old salt pans. A high quality salt is harvested here and, for the first time ever, 3 tons of it have formed the basis of the local Nativity scene. It is a startling and beautiful sight.

The detail is extraordinary. The trees are delicately crafted from wisps of plants, and every conceivable craft is depicted in amongst them. Did you notice the pumpkin patch, and the birds protecting their eggs up on the rooftop? And the storks aloft upon the chimney? You probably need to click on the gallery for a closer look. If you like, you can throw a few coins, in appreciation.

The Presepio de Natal is very conveniently and easily signed from the main parking area in Castro Marim, and takes place on Rua 25 de Abril. Maybe a date for next year’s diary? But as we are here in the centre of town I’m sure you’d like a look around. Any potential kings among you?

Climb the steps to the Igreja Matriz and you have sweeping views of the town and its surrounds. You can peep through the grills of the church at the regal azulejo panel, and spy on the locals hanging out their washing.

A little meandering will bring you within sight of the gardens of Revelim de St. Antonio. You cannot miss them because they are crowned by a windmill. But first I have to warn you, there’s a bit of a climb.

I was delighted to find that the restaurant at the summit was open. Can you imagine a nicer spot to linger over a coffee laced with cream?

It made the climbing a few steps entirely worthwhile. I hope you enjoyed this gentle saunter. I’m saving the strenuous stuff for later.

Thank you all for your patience. I have tried to pop in on a few of you but, if I’ve missed you, please accept my apologies. I’m travelling back to the UK today so my responses won’t be immediate but I’ll get there as soon as I can. Meantime, pop that kettle on! You have some fine walks to enjoy.

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Nothing beats a canalside stroll in my book. Thanks for being so patient, Anabel :

Glasgow canal walks

Jackie’s been out and about chasing a bit of magic :

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

And Woolly had a grand time ‘In Brugge’. There are some beautiful images!

Jo’s-Monday-Walk_16-9-Brugge

Jo’s-Monday-Walk 17-01-Brugge

It gets pretty cold in Bavaria but it’s so beautiful! Thanks for sharing, Lady Lee :

Freezing in Freising

Much warmer where lovely Becky was. We managed to meet up again in the Algarve :

It maybe midwinter but it doesn’t feel like it

I thought I’d lost Susan, but fortunately she has kept right on walking :

Walking with Vultures

And Violet Sky’s been busy looking for bargains at Honest Ed’s :

Honestly

What would a walk be without Drake for company?

Hjem til Aarhus

And the ‘other’ Susan has some lovely ideas for strolling in New York City :

Take a Stroll with Me Through Rockefeller Park

Isn’t it kind when people remember you when you’re far away? Thanks, Elaine :

Glen Finglas Reservoir

Hope the new year is progressing well for you. See you soon with more walks and reminiscences.

A walking retrospective

You probably think you’re seeing double! This is the opening photo for my most recent walk, Boxing Day Blues. It’s hard to select favourites but my criteria is often that a photo takes you back to a moment in time. For me this was a clear, bright, quite unparalleled December day.

Would you believe that this one was taken in August, but how could I leave out such a winning smile? Gargrave in the rain was one of the most joyful moments of my past year. A wedding anniversary weekend!

By contrast, Autumn this year was a riot of colour, and I can still feel that warm November sun on my back as I stood in the churchyard, surveying the magnificent ruins of Flamboyant Autumn at Easby Abbey.

October was a time of great sadness for me. I never could have guessed that, as I looked up at this church in Alternative Ayamonte, my Dad had only hours to live. I was abroad in my beautiful Algarve, but my heart really wasn’t in it.

How could it only have been a couple of weeks before that I was so joyfully walking the Water of Leith, excited to meet for the first time with my lovely friend Jude? A landmark event!

Can’t help but share a moment of north eastern pride with the celebrated Tall Ships Regatta at Blyth in August. How proud Dad would have been of the Polish ships taking part. He was always a patriot.

Which transports me back to July, when I met a lady with a fabulous smile in the City of Birmingham. It was my first time in the city and I loved it. Thanks, Gilly! I know I made a friend for life.

It was a water lily Summer. They were everywhere! I visited many beautiful gardens, such as Newby Hall, in June. Funny how so many of you were more interested in the cake than the flowers!

I spent two wonderful weeks in Poland to coincide with the May Bank Holiday. My cousin Adam is a baker but always manages a few days off that weekend for his birthday. It was Dad’s favourite time to go, and I was so happy that I got to spend this precious time with him. Naughtily though, I did manage to escape, into the arms of another friend for life- Meeting Meg!

In that early part of the year I was leading a charmed life. My visit to Poland was sandwiched with trips to the Algarve and many walking excursions. A day at Mertola in the Alentejo was particularly memorable.

April, always the time for lambs, I threw one little chap into total panic as I held a gate open for him. Lambkins and Bikes– a winning combination?

I was delighted to have my lovely daughter home for Easter, in March. The highlight of that weekend was the Butterfly Trail in nearby Preston Park. They are incredible creatures, and almost as exotic as my daughter.

February in the Algarve is synonymous with Amendoeira– Almond Blossom. And, of course, Carnival, but that’s an entirely different story.

And so we find ourselves in January, and Saltburn in Winter. It’s a lovely seaside town on the North Yorkshire coast, a place I like to stroll at any time of year.

What a year of highs and lows it’s been. I have Paula to thank for leading me back through the months. Thursday’s Special this week is Retrospective. Don’t miss it!

Jo’s Monday walk : Boxing Day Blues

I just know you’re ready for some fresh air and exercise this morning, and you’ve come to exactly the right place. Grab a scarf and some gloves and we’ll go and dust off those Boxing Day blues. Nothing finer than a vigorous walk along the north east coast of England.

We’re at Roker, just north of Sunderland, and smiles abound this gem of a morning. Let’s start by the tall white lighthouse that studs the green. In Summer this is the focal point for the Sunderland Air Show and breathing space is scarce. Right now, we can stroll as far as the eye can see.

I’m heading south, but you can choose. Not too many clouds in the sky this morning, but they can gang up on you when you’re least expecting. Let’s hop down on the beach and see what we can find.

The stories a pebble could tell! I look back along the beach, and then ahead, into shadow.

That’s Roker Pier you can see straight ahead. It looks far distant but it’s no more than a good stride.

The clouds are making the most enchanting reflections on the damp sand.

Just around the corner, a rather strange ‘gateway’ to Roker Park.

Don’t let it put you off. It’s rather a nice little park, especially when the Roker Lights come to town in September.

In no time at all we’re back on the sea front, and there ahead of us stands proudly curvaceous Roker Pier.

Remember I mentioned those sneaky clouds? Well, just for a few seconds…

…a drop or two of rain plops on the sand. But it’s gone in a whisper, making me doubt it was even there. I stroll back in the direction from which I’ve come, smiling at a dog walker, and a lone maiden on a rock.

For a moment I fancy she might just be a mermaid. That’s what happens when you watch ‘Splash’, the movie, on Christmas TV. Heading north again, did you spot the selfie on the beach?

There’s a good incentive to carry on around this bay. On the edge of Whitburn, Latimer’s deli and fish restaurant is a great little spot, looking out to sea. On a summer day you’ll be fighting to sit out on the sun terrace. Today it’s just that little bit cool, and squeezing inside is more desirable.

The lobster salad was such a good price, and looked delicious. I modestly settled for a lovely fish chowder. Maybe next time? I hope you’ll join me.

Thanks everyone for spending time with me today, and the whole of the year. I’ve loved having your company. I’m going to be missing for a few weeks because next Monday I’ll be on my way to the Algarve. I have 2 weeks to enjoy, and recharge my batteries. I don’t blog while I’m away, so the next walk will be posted on 23rd January. That seems a long way off. You might have forgotten me by then. If not, I’ll be open for walks as usual. Details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page.

Let’s enjoy some great walks now, shall we? I’ll pop the kettle on first.

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You can always rely on Anabel for a bite to eat along the way :

A walk round Overtoun Estate

Indra’s in British Columbia, and very beautiful it looks too :

Kelowna…. Nature’s Playground

Sunshine in your eyes? And the ‘white stuff’, with Drake :

Snow in the eyes

Beautiful architecture as Jude follows in my footsteps, along the river bank :

Norwich Part III : Wensum riverside walk

I know she’d love the fruit and flowers in Lady Lee’s Philippines :

Sonya’s Garden – Urban floral displays

Jackie found lots of ice in Florida. An unusual, if expensive, treat :

Charlie Brown’s Christmas

Not so chilly at the beach, with Geoff and Dog :

Hag Stones#poems#poetry

And where’s Woolly this week? Dodging snakes it seems!

Jo’s Monday-Walk-06 Geelong Botanic Gardens

Denzil always enjoys a breath of fresh air and a stretch of the legs :

Walking around Wonck

I’m quite jealous that Sophie managed to get onto these walls :

The walk on the wall of Pisa

And I’m determined to get to Cornwall next year for these scones. Thanks, Carol!

The End

Have you come across the London Wlogger? The lady features very informative London walks :

King’s Cross to Hampstead Heath : Unlocking London’s beauty

Finishing with a little piece of leftover Christmas magic from Drake :

Dreaming about so much

And closer to home- you’ll like this, Jude!- Jaspa shares some Cornish lights :

Mousehole Harbour Christmas Lights

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. I’ll be around till the New Year, walking of course, if the opportunity arises. Make the most of your relaxed time, before we dive into 2017.

Jo’s Monday walk : Christmas Magic in Roundhay

A little bird told me that you’ve all been very good this year. Soon it will be time to open Santa’s sack. Thank you for staying with me on all of those long and arduous hikes. This week it’s all pleasure. Shall we take a little one by the hand and go in search of some Christmas magic?

The venue is Roundhay Park on the outskirts of Leeds, where we’re queuing up for the Magical Lantern Festival. Arrive a little early to make parking easier. There are food stalls and a few small rides for the tots. Hot chocolate and Baileys, strictly for the grown ups.

Here we are, queued beneath the Chinese gate, the anticipation and excitement building. Look up! Look up! Can you see the reindeer on the top?

Under we go, across the road and into the park. Roundhay Park includes 700 acres of parkland, lakes and woodland. In summer you could stroll to your heart’s content, admiring the Monet and Alhambra gardens and former Chelsea Gold Medal award winning gardens. Tropical World is beloved of children for the meercats and the butterfly house. This December the gardens have been transformed with the addition of the lantern festival.

It’s a gentle beginning, as the sun disappears softly into the woods. What ARE all those pandas up to?

We weave around the canal garden, ooh-ing and aah-ing at each new sight. A pumpkin feast affords much delight.

Flowers sparkle prettily, birds tweet from luminous cages, dragonflies whirr and ladybugs glow.

A serenely oriental pond has me clicking and clicking, trying to get the best angle to capture this beauty.

With a grand finale of geese and prancing unicorn, I fear that the tour must be over. Not so! I’m delighted to be directed back across the road.

In Mansion Place an avenue of lanterns leads to yet more flamboyance.

Elegant blue and white porcelain twinkles, while swans dip their graceful heads to admire their own reflection.

A pagoda signals one last crescendo of excitement. No self-respecting Chinese festival is complete without a dragon or two.

Try to end with a flourish! I believe I did. Time to relinquish the little hands and tuck small persons into bed. The Magical Lantern Festival is on at Roundhay until 2nd January. If you’re in the area, why not treat yourself? It really is lovely. Full details are on the website. Let’s put that kettle on!

Thank you so much for another fantastic year of walking and friendship. You make it very special. I hope to have another walk for you next Monday (Boxing Day) but I know that many of you will be absent and enjoying Christmas with your family. Let me take this opportunity to wish you all a peaceful Christmas, filled with much joy. And now to share some walks.

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A blissful beginning from Paula! I know you’ll enjoy :

New Horizon

Lady Lee spent the most beautiful birthday weekend walking and eating… ideal!

Birthday Weekend in Garmisch

Life isn’t ideal in a lot of places. Let Indra show you the brighter side in India :

Walk the Green Side of Gurgaon, India

Becky’s found blue skies and some rather interesting sculptures in Olhão :

Exploring the delightful ‘Legends Way’

Where’s Woolly this week?

Jo’s-Monday-Walk-Monaco

My memories of San Diego are of scorching heat. Elaine’s are soothing and refreshing :

Balboa Park – Japanese Friendship Garden

Christmas posts are becoming inevitable! Here’s a lovely one from Stephanie :

Lights

And then please hop over to delightful Kayserberg with Drake :

Do they know it’s…?

Carol had the most fantastic view from her apartment in Cornwall this year :

Falmouth – Near and Far

And Biti found the cutest B & B, especially if you enjoy street art :

Marseille Colorful Panier

A mournful, poetic walk to end the year with Geoff and Dog :

December#poem#walking

But Cathy’s still right on adventuring!

West Virginia : The Endless Wall

A winter wonderland’s something to celebrate, isn’t it? Irene’s is beautiful :

Melancholy is Futile

I hope to be out and about walking between Christmas and New Year but I won’t be posting walks between 2nd and 16th January. Maybe you can guess where I’ll be. Merry Christmas all!

Jo’s Monday walk : Gargrave in the rain

I did tell you last week that my skies aren’t always blue? Sometimes you just have to carry on and do it. August in England- you never can tell what’s in store! My companion’s still smiling, so grab a mac and come with me to Gargrave. What’s a little rain between friends?

It’s a lovely village, but I’m not staying long. I hop over a stile in a stone wall and off across the field, even though that sky does look a bit ominous. I have a date with a canal. I expect it will appreciate a little more water! The sheep don’t seem terribly bothered, so why should we?

I do seem to have encountered a lot of sheep this summer. You might remember that I spent an anniversary weekend in the village of Skipton, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Gargrave is situated just 4 miles north west of Skipton, and I had in mind a 3 and a half mile walk to take in a few locks. The Leeds and Liverpool canal and the River Aire both pass through the village, as does the Pennine Way, so perhaps you can understand my enthusiasm, despite the dreary weather.

Halfway across the field the mild drizzle turns to a downpour. Nothing for it but to plod on, hoping to reach the shelter of a few trees. I always seem to get the giggles at such moments. Not so the other half, whose frown was growing deeper by the minute. With some relief, I spot the first lock, through the trees. A cheery lock keeper bids us “good morning!”. “I’m paid to get wet” he says, stoically.

Fortunately the rain has eased again and I stop to admire the lock keeper’s cottage. Imagine, if you will, a bright Summer’s day.

We cross over an old stone bridge and a pop of colour from a patch of tiny thistles catches my grey-weary eyes. These are Bank Newton locks.

Can you see what lies ahead? I will try not to bore you rigid with houseboats, but I do have a bit of a fascination with them.

One of the highlights of this walk was a small aqueduct, carrying the canal over the river. It was a first for me. Not very spectacular to look at but an experience in itself. I am full of admiration for the people who made these canals.

Happily, at this point a glimmer of sunshine appears in the sky. I don’t suppose you’ll be able to see it, but it puts a smile back on the husband’s face. And then we come upon a very strange craft!

One of the things I love about houseboats is the creativity of the people who live on, or near, them. We’re almost at the end of our walk so I’ll spare you any more lock details. You might want to observe a stately swan though, and I’m pretty sure I have an irresistible dog for you.

Gargrave has a very charming website with a choice of walks around the village. You could do much worse than follow one of them, and hopefully you’ll stay dry. This is the walk that I did.

‘What! No cream tea?’ I hear your outraged cry! We drove onwards to Malham, where the rain was once again a deluge, and huddled in the corner of a cramped cafe. Determined to see something of the mighty limestone crags, I persuaded the long suffering one to a short walk to Janet’s Foss. No need to feel sorry for him. We were homeward bound and, as we crested the valley, sun beamed down upon us. The scarecrow festival at Kettlewell more than made up for any disappointments. Time to put the kettle on?

I know time is a little tight right now, but please do visit the new folks on here, or at least bookmark them for later? So much work goes into these posts. I’d hate you to miss them. Huge thanks to all you for walking with me each week. Details are, as always, on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo above.

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I have some great mates around here! Thanks, Jude, for reminding me how very lovely Norwich is :

Norwich Part 1 : History and Architecture

Amy joins us with an extremely elegant walk this week :

A Walk of an Urban Garden

Geoff usually comes up with something different, and you’ll enjoy this :

Thomas Hardy and why he was miserable # walking

Next, a shout out for my birthplace, from Lady Lee :

Coventry Transport Museum

A dent in the head for poor Woolly? Oh, dear!

Jo’s-Monday-Walk-Indented-Head

Something all too familiar to some of us. Thanks, Jesh!

Rainy Seasons

Can we have a big welcome please for Lisa, from Israel? She’s new to my walks :

The Jerusalem Model (you may need to scroll down a little)

“I read the news today, oh boy!… ” Those Beatles again, or my friend Drake?

A day in the life

Enjoy some beautiful frosty leaf patterns with Denzil :

Shapes and patterns in nature

Jaspa has a rare find this week. Seeing’s believing!

Walk on the Ocean Floor at Hopewell Rocks, Canada

Here’s value for money. Two walks for the price of one, from Peta :

Morning walk ; Afternoon walk

And I’d like to share a very beautiful post I found. Please say hello to Vanessa :

Sandankyo Gorge, Hiroshima- Wandering off the Beaten Track in the Mountains of Western Japan

And another great find! I love sharing walkers that are new to me. Happy to introduce Ostend Nomad :

Walking the Vintnar Gorge

And one more for luck! Sophie makes Siena look absolutely stunning!

Night walk in Siena

And, getting the Christmas walks rolling, who could be better than Becky?

Beginning to feel like Christmas

That’s it for another week. Maybe I’ll be in Christmas mode next week. Take good care of each other!

Jo’s Monday walk : A crisp day at Stockton Riverside

Subtitled, a bevy of swans. Recovering from a back problem, I needed a gentle, level walk. The Riverside, at nearby Stockton-on-Tees, seemed a likely candidate. The sun was bright in the sky but the temperature skimming zero, so strolling really wasn’t an option. Semi-briskly, let’s go!

It’s surprising the variety you can find within a short distance along this river bank. A replica of ‘The Endeavour’, a glut of bridges and an impressive whiteness of swans. Today, rivaled by the whiteness of frost on decaying timbers.

As an extra treat, the Teesside Princess comes chugging towards us from her dock on the quayside. Party time upstream, maybe?

Aren’t they lovely creatures? I don’t know when I ever saw so many, even in a nature reserve, and this is anything but. I did wonder if the local council arranged for them to be fed. We’re now at the back of Stockton High Street and approaching a retail park, so it’s a good time to cross over the Victoria Bridge to the opposite bank of the Tees.

The path continues alongside newish flats, and a spattering of call centres. Not a bad working environment, and there are benches for a lunchtime sandwich. Even in thick tights, you’d think twice today. Look out for the glimmer of ice on the water as we follow the man-made canals.

Passing below the Millenium Bridge, the footpath weaves around the canals in a slightly frustrating manner. Ahead and around the next bend awaits the showstopper bridge, her graceful arcs skimming the blue.

Intriguingly there are goalposts suspended above the water. Evidence of summer excitement! The university buildings back onto this stretch, and the youngsters will row and kayak with enthusiasm. More sedately, I’m content just to admire the slender lines before me.

A grand finale, isn’t she? Crossing over the Infinity Bridge and I gaze skywards, spellbound as ever by her beauty.

The riverside path leads back to our beginning. You can pop through to the High Street if you’re needing sustenance, and you might catch Locomotion no 1 in action. Here’s a little bit of bridge history for those who are interested.

Apologies for taking you back to familiar territory, but I know you love a bright walk and this was such a lovely, albeit nippy, day. I still have some walks to share from earlier in the year and it’s a perpetual dilemma which to choose. Perhaps I’ll have to let a little cloud in next week. Grab that cuppa, won’t you, and we’ll settle in for a read.

Thanks all you lovely people. I so look forward to your company on Mondays. I have some of the most fabulous shares again this week. Feel free to join me anytime. You’ll always be welcome. Details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo above.

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Lady Lee has been making me envious again. Such a nice place to have family!

Singapore

If you’re a fan of ‘dressing up’ you’ll like Jackie’s post, with a nice dollop of history :

Day 7- Williamsburg

Jude takes me back to a place where I have fond memories of duck pate sandwiches, Guinness and rain!

Bury St. Edmunds

While Sherri took me back to the sunshine of my halcyon Lake Garda days :

An Italian Journey : Writing and Healing

A good ramble and a yarn from Tish Farrell always brings a huge smile to my face :

Rambling Yesterday On Wenlock Edge ~ “The Holly and the Power Station”

A smile and a song! Those are Drake’s specialities too :

Smile for awhile

Or you can have a little birdsong with your stroll, over at Denzil’s place :

3 walks on Mechelse Heide

Biti can show you lots of Rome’s splendour :

Rome beautiful churches

And poor Carol has a dilemma on her hands on the rugged south coast of England :

Which Shoes to Choose

They’re brilliant, aren’t they? I have a crispy pink and white sunrise dawning outside my window. Soon be time to get walking. Take good care and I’ll see you all next week!

Jo’s Monday walk : Querenca to Fonte de Benemola

Another of the Algarve’s sleepy villages, Querenca was looking idyllic on the last day of my October holiday. Our walking group were meeting at the cafe on the left of the photo above. It’s quite a drive up into the hills and a ‘bica’ of coffee is always appreciated before we start walking.

Surrounded by rolling hills and leafy green scenery, Querenca breathes pure tranquillity. Excepting when the Festa das Chouricas takes place, at the end of January, and the waft of spicy sausage rouses the locals. In honour of St. Luis, the patron saint of animals, the celebrations give thanks for the pigs, bred locally, that feed the villagers throughout the year. I rather fancy trying chouriço à bombeiro, where the sausage is doused in brandy and set alight. Bombeiros are fire fighters, in case you wondered. Time to set forth.

We leave the village square in a downhill direction, over lovingly worn cobbles. I’m too busy admiring the scenery to realise that the return route could well be steeply uphill. There are 13.7 kilometres to cover first. I’ve walked to Fonte de Benemola in the past, but this route is unfamiliar.

Portuguese street names do sometimes seen inordinately long. And did you notice that cat, giving me such a baleful look?

Continuing downhill we find the beginning of the trail to the Fonte, or spring. A lush green valley leads beneath lofty cliffs, the arid red of the Algarve soil revealed in the fissures. It reminds me greatly of my trip to Rocha da Pena, but today the weather is impeccable.

The trail winds along dustily, and becomes quite rock strewn in places. In Spring these nooks and crannies will be dressed in the finery of rock roses and lavender, with the promise of wild orchids. This late in the year colour is harder to find.

When finally I reach the Fonte, the bamboo and rushes are bleached almost colourless. A soft shushing noise betrays the presence of the water, a sign ‘olho’ pointing hopefully. A young couple are balanced on the rocks, trying to capture on camera the bubble of water as it rises and swirls in an ‘eye’. I carry on, knowing that I’ve seen it in far less parched surroundings.

These natural springs prevail throughout Portugal’s hills. This is ‘the eye’ in Springtime.

As we follow signs back to the village I wonder if the cheery basket maker is still there, with his whistles and bird imitators. I had purchased a wicker bowl last time, feeling sorry for him as he sat alone in the woods. It serves as a slightly wonky erstwhile fruit bowl. Many new arrivals are enjoying the unseasonally hot weather, and I feel sure that he will be enjoying good trade in his shady dell.

Remember that climb back into the village? I confess I had forgotten all about it. It took a while before I was puffing and panting back into the village square. There just has to be a reward, don’t you think?

Much later I discovered a video of the Fonte that I thought you might like to see.

There are a number of routes around the natural springs. Walking Trails of the Algarve pages 76 and 80 will give you shorter variations on this walk, or you can simply follow the signboards. This video will give you a glimpse of the basket maker. Please ignore the advertising. I hope you’ve got the kettle on, ready to join my walkers from your armchair?

Thanks so much, everybody, for your kind contributions to my walks. I wasn’t at all sure where to lead you this week but in the end I opted for sunshine, as Winter wraps itself around us here in the UK. I hope you enjoyed it. If you’d like to contribute anytime the details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo above.

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I do like a tinker in a museum and a browse round a market. Geoff can tell you a story or two as well :

From Paddington to Page#walking#london

Woolly likes a little stroll, with not too much effort and some classy cars :

Jo’s-Monday-Walk-Car-Show

But sometimes he gets a little further :

Jo’s-Monday-Walk-Geelong-Foreshore

Jackie’s by the York River, in Yorktown. Virginia, of course!

Day 6- Yorktown

Nothing like a good fumble around the Albert Docks with Drake. He’s in his element!

Come and get it

Does anyone know what Pargeting is? Jude does, and I really love it :

Love Lavenham

Becky’s counting to 6 this week, but there are lots more than that!

There are pomegranates in the tree

While Carol’s fossil hunting and has found loads!

Buried Treasure

Or you could join Kathrin for a delicious trip to the beach :

A day at Solana Beach

How do you follow the legend that is Badfish? Why, with devotion, of course :

ONE FINE DAY in BRATISLAVA : Part III

That’s it for now. I think I’ll be walking in the UK again next week. Feel free to join me but, more importantly, take care till then.

Jo’s Monday walk : Flamboyant Autumn at Easby Abbey

Today’s walk is the reverse of one I took you on a couple of years ago. Remember the story of the little Drummer Boy? It really hadn’t been my intention to walk to Easby Abbey, but as the sun burst forth over the Autumn foliage I couldn’t imagine a finer place to be. Such a contrast with the creeping mist that enshrouded me last time.

This walk starts from The Station at Richmond, now a fine exhibition space with a rather nice eatery, ‘Seasons’. Have I been neglecting your stomachs lately? I know there has been a dearth of cream scones on here, but maybe you can make up for it later. Incentive to get you walking! From the rear of The Station a trail signed for Easby Abbey leads off into the woods.

The gurgle of water accompanies your footsteps, as you are walking above the fast flowing River Swale. Glimpses of it flaunt themselves through gaps in the trees, along with the wider view to the countryside beyond. Soon you come to a bridge. This morning it is rhymed with frost so tread a little carefully. Recent rain has ensured the boisterous nature of the water.

Once over the bridge the trail bends to the left and you are following the river more closely. My heart always goes pitter pat at the sight and sound of rushing water. Autumn finery weaves it’s own spell.

Bathed in sunlight, you can make out a grand looking residence through the trees, and soon you are in sight of the Abbey. The gatehouse stands silently, beyond a field where grazing horses sport their winter garb. The woolly sheep don’t seem to feel the same need.

Pastoral England at it’s finest, isn’t it? Let’s slip through the metal gate into the churchyard. The hamlet of Easby dates back to the Domesday survey of 1086, and the parish church of St. Agatha predates the Abbey. It also provides a wonderful vantage point over the Abbey ruins.

Easby Abbey was founded in about 1152, by Roald, a constable of Richmond in North Yorkshire. It was established as a Premonstratension monastery, whose origin came from Premontre in France. Most monks follow the 6th century Rule of St. Benedict, renouncing the world for a life of contemplation. The Easby monks followed the older rule of St. Augustine, meaning they served the community by preaching, teaching and charitable work, and could become parish priests. They lived communally but did not take monastic vows. They were ordained as canons (or priests), with the authority to celebrate mass and administer sacraments.

From the earliest times, sheep farming seems to have been a mainstay of Abbey life. Roald’s descendants continued to hold the constableship of Richmond and its lands throughout the 12th and 13th centuries. They were variously known as de Burton or de Richmond. By the 14th century the estates had been sold to the Scrope family, knights based at Bolton in neighbouring Wensleydale. The Scropes made Easby their burial place and the chancel of the Abbey church was lengthened. Prosperity seems to have continued until the suppression of the monasteries in 1536. Richmond defended its monks, but in retribution Henry VIII wrote that “St. Agatha and such other places as have made resistance… shall without pity or circumstance… be tied up (hanged) without further delay”. Destruction followed, but the remaining ruins are hauntingly beautiful.

Turning up the lane, another grandiloquent property looks down on you. I imagine much doffing of caps went on at St. Agatha’s House.

The field drops down towards the river again, and this time I find I can get really close. Leaf strewn steps lead down almost to the water’s edge and I am awash in Autumn’s tumultuous hues. Knotty tree roots protrude and I have to mind my step, but it’s like being in an enchanted forest.

Always before I have taken the higher route. My reward, a glimpse of a modern day Hansel and Gretel cottage, nestled in the woods.

The path meets the higher route at the Drummer Boy stone, and soon you can see distant Richmond Castle through the trees. Water trickles and drips down the mossy stone. It feels almost primeval.

Back at The Station, pause for refreshments, or carry on, as I do. I can never resist the lure of the falls, and there’s a bonus. Look who I found!

The tumult of the falls is breathtaking. As I walk back towards The Station, another little guy is watching me from the safety of a branch.

I hope you enjoyed sharing these last moments of Autumn. English Heritage provide a comprehensive history of the Abbey on their website, plus details of how to get there. I’d rather like to share this walk with Jude too. Her November theme for the Garden Challenge is Trees, and I think I’ve managed to find one or two. Let’s put the kettle on and settle in for a read now, shall we?

Huge thanks to all of you for the support I receive on here. Yet again I have a wonderful selection of walks to share. Please visit as many as you can. And if you happen to have a walk you’d like to share, well, what are you waiting for? Details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page, or you can click on the logo above.

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I have so many Gaudi favourites! How about you? Lady Lee showcases this one beautifully :

Casa Batllo

Woolly’s strolling from the shopping centre this week :

Jo’s-Monday-Walk- Barwon Heads

Jude tries her hand at landscapes in Constable country, and makes a lovely job of it :

Walking in an artist’s footsteps

Kingston, Jamaica it’s not, but Stephanie makes her current home look very appealing :

A Walk through Downtown Kingston, WA

Jackie, meanwhile, is on the trail of more history in Virginia :

October 2016- Williamsburg, VA

While Liesbet explores California, with a very cute canine friend :

Sunny Sacramento

Yvette is never shy about sharing her views, but she shares a lot of love too :

Our Lady of Victory Basilica Lackawanna, NY

Another of those dreams I haven’t yet made come true. Thanks, BiTi!

Big Sur

Much more intimate, but no less delightful, Drake’s childhood home :

Big, big small world

Stamina or coffee! Which do I need to walk in Badfish’s footsteps? Don’t miss it!

One long road to Bratislava : Part II

I’m considering myself invited to the south coast so I can do this walk with Gilly. Any offers?

A South West Coast Path Walk

And finally, anyone up for a little skateboarding? Or you can just stroll, with Kathrin :

Skateboarding in Huntingdon Beach

Fantastic, aren’t they? That’s it for Autumn posts from me. Not sure where I’ll take you next week, but I hope you can come along. In the meantime, have a great week, and to all my US friends, Happy Thanksgiving!

restlessjo

Roaming, at home and abroad

Jo’s Monday walk

Jo’s Monday walk : Ribeira de Algibre

Jo’s Monday walk : Lagoão Trail

Jo’s Monday walk : Enchanting Castro Marim

A walking retrospective

Jo’s Monday walk : Boxing Day Blues

Jo’s Monday walk : Christmas Magic in Roundhay

Jo’s Monday walk : Gargrave in the rain

Jo’s Monday walk : A crisp day at Stockton Riverside

Jo’s Monday walk : Querenca to Fonte de Benemola

Jo’s Monday walk : Flamboyant Autumn at Easby Abbey

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