Portugal

Six word Saturday

In Tavira, it goes like this…

Down at the beach bar we have Santa and a lady friend, and a cute little tree.

Aside from the main town square, not a lot of money is spent on decoration, and Christmas is no worse for that. A simple crib scene adorns a few street corners. There is little money to spare, and food banks were operating in the supermarkets in late December.

The council are keen to attract further tourism to Tavira, and they are spending money on infrastructure. The natural assets and the sunshine are there for all to see, but down at Quatro Aguas major improvements are underway. Jude might enjoy these brand new Benches.

Maybe she’ll get to sit on them one day. The view’s not bad….

Meantime, it’s Saturday and I hope you’re not too full of Christmas pudding to take a little stroll with me. I’m not sure if Cate is playing Six Word Saturday this week. It’s Boxing Day and that’s confusing, isn’t it? Hope to see you all on Monday!

Jo’s Monday walk : Vaqueiros

A dilemma this week! Whether to take you back to those blue Algarve skies, or stay with reality, here in the UK? Ever the escapist, I’ve opted to leave reality on hold, just a little while longer. Vaqueiros is another of those pretty hill villages in the Eastern Algarve. A quirky little walk, this time I had the company of my walking friends, so no need to worry about angry dogs.

Again, the drive up into the hills from Tavira was a test for the driver, but pure delight for the passenger. Before coming to the Algarve I would never have expected to find hairpin bends and smoke coloured hills. Every twist and turn looks down across another tiny village, or out across a lovely panorama. With each bend I want to shout ‘stop the car’, and leap out with my camera. But, of course, that isn’t a practical option, and the dedicated walkers in our group would have been less than impressed. Coffee stops, however, are mandatory, and we congregate outside a miniscule cafe in Vaqueiros. I’m eye to eye with a languid grey cat, sitting comfortably atop a heap of beer crates. Raising my camera appears to be the signal for a sprint start. Another wasted photo opportunity! Nothing for it but to start walking.

Vaqueiros is one of the villages along the Via Algarviana, a 300km walking and biking trail which crosses the Algarve. The walk today is a circular route of just 13km. In late November the sun is shining brightly but walkers are scarce. The olive trees are laden with fruits, soon to be harvested. Our route takes us out of the village, joining a gently rising track. Gnarled olive trees and umbrella pines are our chief companions.

Can you see Michael, in the deep shade, at the rear of the group of walkers? They are quite fit and walk at a decent pace. I’m always hanging back, looking for an interesting shot. Unless I get engrossed in conversation, which can sometimes happen. I try to maintain a balance between enjoying my companions and the landscape.

Red and yellow markers indicate that we are still following a trail, but we mostly rely on our group leader. An Algarve resident, he has been walking these hills for many years. His well-muscled legs handle the ups and downs with ease. Some of us are not so lucky! Along the route we come upon a couple of fords, but water levels are notoriously low this year. The rain came all in one week and everywhere is tinder dry.

A cluster of hens are happy in the shade.

I mentioned at the beginning that this is a quirky walk. Up in these hills you unexpectedly come upon the remains of a theme park. ‘Parque Mineiro’ was a misguided idea which never actually came to fruition. Copper was once mined in this area and was presumably the inspiration behind the theme park. I wasn’t at all prepared for the sight of a little yellow train, and yet there it was, intact and still sitting on the rails.

I’m sorry to disappoint, but there isn’t a cake stop on this walk. Groans all round! The village doesn’t have one and in fact we took a picnic with us. We ended up back at Vaqueiros, outside the same little cafe. The lads helped to empty those beer crates while my tumbler of red cost but 40 cents!

It’s a lovely part of the world. This promotional video of the Via Algarviana is a nice introduction. There is a board near the cafe which shows way-marked trails, should you ever get that far.

And that’s my walking done till after Christmas, so may I take this opportunity to wish all of you a happy and healthy Christmas (yes, you are allowed cake! You can walk it off afterwards). Time to put that kettle on!

A last round-up before Christmas. Huge thanks to all of you who’ve followed along, up hill and down dale. I’ve enjoyed your company so much, and thank you for helping to keep me trim. Join me any time you like. Details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page.

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Quick off the mark last week, Drake was in thoughtful mood :

Space for reflection

Lovely to have Debbie back in our midst again!

A Winter Stroll on Beach Street

Lots of you seem to know my weaknesses now! Many thanks, Elaine :

A canalside walk

It’s round up time with Amy. Pick a favourite?

A Walk through my Monday Walks

I shall make it to Water of Leith one day- trust me, Anabel!

Edinburgh- everything is going to be alright

Still walking in circles with Geoff!

The Capital Ring : Richmond to Greenford, via Osterley

Violet shows us how beautiful Christmas in small town Ontario can be :

River of lights

Then we can hop across the water to cosmopolitan Toronto :

Toronto…. waterscape walks

You might have missed this one last week? I did! Apologies!

Metal and Wood Trail

Jaspa takes us to South America again. Such a beautiful cathedral!

Trujillo’s Colonial Heart, Peru

Walk homewards with Ruth? You won’t regret it :

Stroll home

And isn’t it always a pleasure to spend time with Pauline and Jack?

Farm walk

Gilly lives in a lovely part of the world. She’s lovely too!

The Otter in August

Hope to see some of you next week, if you’re not too busy entertaining and having fun. I’ll be looking forward to a bit of fresh air in that gap between Christmas and New Year. Off I go, to wrap presents. I still have some to buy! Take good care till I see you again, and have a wonderful time with your loved ones.

Jo’s Monday walk : Barranco das Lajes

My walk through Portugal’s Barranco das Lajes definitely comes in the category of ‘tales with a happy ending’, but for a while I wasn’t so sure.

Let me set the scene. The skies were the clearest of blues. I’d been in the Algarve for long enough to take this completely for granted (a week!). I’d ambled on beaches, and been out with my walker friends. I’d even met up with a lovely blogger and her husband for coffee. (Hi Becky!) I was in as relaxed a state as I ever achieve. But those smoke blue hills on the horizon were calling me. Much earlier in the year I’d been there and resolved to come back for a walk.

Out came the guide to Walking Trails in the Algarve , which you might remember from my walk on the cliff tops at Carrapateira. This walk has a very different location. From my eastern Algarve home in Tavira it is a lovely drive along the N270 to São Brás de Alportel. As Becky points out in her most recent walk, directions in this guide are a little vague. Fortunately my husband has a good memory for roads. North we went, through the villages of Alportel, Cova da Muda, Javali, Parises, and Cabeca do Velho, climbing higher and higher into the hills. When it seemed we couldn’t go any higher, and my ears were popping, we reached the minute village of Cabanas- the start of the trail.

Sorry the map is a little fuzzy

Acorns from the Holm Oaks were our chief companions

A more peaceful spot you could not hope to find…. until! Over a farm wall hopped two dogs, the leader barking ferociously and heading straight for me. Barking dogs are a pretty common factor on any walk in the Algarve countryside. Most farmers have an animal or two to protect their property. Usually they are on a leash, or behind a sturdy gate. In such an isolated spot, the farmer obviously did not expect company. He shouted at the dogs, but not before the leader had reached me and leapt at the back of my knee. Ouch! I have to admit I was shaken and not a little worried that it had broken the skin, but I was ‘lucky’.

The walk follows the asphalt road a very short distance through the village of Lajes, before turning down a trail. I limped along feeling a little sorry for myself, and wishing I’d had a walking pole handy for defence. But it was such a beautiful day, and my surroundings so serene, it really was hard to stay grumpy.

Looking back at the village of Lajes

With the clearest of skies

And interesting trees

The trail descended quite gently, but it soon became clear that I had made the wrong choice of footwear. My grazed toes did help to take my mind off my sore leg. Grateful for small mercies! A pause for a little discreet padding. Can you believe that I really was enjoying myself? But I sincerely hope that you will learn from my bad example. Meanwhile the trail passed through olive and fig groves, beneath numerous cork and holm oaks and down to a watercourse, with rustling bamboo.

Cork oak

Oaks and bamboo

Casting beautiful shadows

Climbing back out of the valley, I marveled at the early flowering fruit trees. I couldn’t decide whether these were the famous Strawberry trees (known for their powerful liqueur, Medronho) or Loquats. In Spring these valleys will sing with with wild flowers- the rose and white faces of Cistus, lavenders in lilac and green- but for now the predominant colour is green.

Another intriguing plant draped itself rather seductively through a Eucalyptus tree- a white variety of the bottle brush?

Almost at the end of the 5.5km walk, there is an optional loop up to Cerro da Ursa- a bit of a climb to a panoramic view. The good news is that having reached the summit you are then back at the level of the road. Even better, the car was merely yards away.

After all that trauma I’m sure you can guess what I did next? A whizz back down the hills takes us to the lovely little cafe, Tesouros da Serra, on the outskirts of São Brás. Fig and carob cake was exactly what I needed! Sore bits quite forgotten.

Just 2 portions left

And this was mine!

Should you be feeling energetic, details and a map can be found on the link to the Walking Trails guide. As estimated, the walk took around 2 hours, but we didn’t hurry. It was too beautiful.

I do hope you’ll read some of these great contributions, and I have to apologise for keeping some of them waiting rather a long time. I’m very grateful for your company and the lovely walks we share. Please join us if you have a walk, long or short- I really don’t mind which. Details can be found on my Jo’s Monday walk page, or just click on the logo above.

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Now, how did Esther know I loved John Denver?

Walk Down Country Roads

Aah, the memories! A small boy I knew loved trains! Thanks so much, Jackie…

Train of Thought

And this week, some beautiful gardens in Toronto :

Allan Gardens

It’s always a pleasure to accompany Drake, almost anywhere!

This way please..

An idyllic landscape next from Pauline (and a few cows) :

The Rural Heart of New Zealand

Elena took such delight in Rotterdam, it’s totally infectious!

Rotterdam in a Day (part 3)

I always love to welcome a newcomer to my walks, especially if we can meet for coffee:

New York- Coffee in Central Park

Or better yet, a beach!

Coolangatta- Classic Cars by the Beach

And if that won’t do, there’s treasure! Please say hello to Lee Anne at ‘Just me please’ :

Eagles Nest- A abundance of treasure

Don’t you love Yvette’s new look? And the way she looks at life too!

Walk with Jo (street photos)

Gilly took such a beautiful stroll in my absence. Hope you didn’t miss it?

A field of brassica

And then when I got home she had this waiting :

A City Stroll at Christmas

You never know what you’re going to get with Tobias, but there’s sure to be an eye pleaser :

Uzes

Meantime, Jaspa takes us back to the days of slavery :

Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park, Florida

I can confirm what Becky says, but it was still warm. I’m missing my Algarve already!

Not every day is a sunny day

It’s great to be able to close with another special lady. I met Cathy, once upon a time :

A November rock scramble on Billy Goat trail

That’s all for now. I’ll probably be on my way to Nottingham when you read this and I’m sure that you understand that time with my daughter is precious. However, I hope to be able to reply to some of you whilst in transit and I’m an early bird so I can sneak some computer time in the mornings. I’ll catch up with the remainder on my return on Thursday, and join you for another walk next week. Take care till then!

Jo’s Monday walk : Fabrica to Cacela Velha

Fabrica, our start point

If there’s one place in the Algarve that always works its magic on me, it’s Cacela Velha. I’ve taken you there before on my walks (remember Mind that hole!?) but today we’re taking the boat ride from Fabrica. In all my Algarve years I’d yet to see the ferry across to the beach operating, but a reference to it in Spanish ‘Conde Nast’ left me determined. Described as ‘one of the best 15 beaches in the world’, I’ll leave you to judge for yourself. How many beaches can there be in such a location?

But I’m getting ahead of myself, as usual. Taking a Cacela Velha turn off from the E125, you will first come to a sign pointing to Fabrica. This will bring you to a tiny harbour with a couple of very laidback bars and a restaurant. Out of season it’s a place for fishermen and locals, but on the last day of my holiday in September it was almost bustling. The tide was out and flipflops or bare feet were the best way to squidge across to the boat.

Leaving the harbour

We scoot out to meet the sea, the boatman deftly following preordained paths through the water. Running aground would be all too easy.

You have two choices for disembarking- the first stop is opposite to Fabrica. The second, further along the sand bar, is opposite Cacela Velha. Let’s get out at the first, then we can have a bit of a beach comb before catching the boat back from the second stop.

Looking back at the shoreline

And just in case you thought I had the beach to myself…

I’m always intrigued by beach ‘art’

Natural and otherwise

Even a little wistful

The lagoon is a great meeting place for birds

There’s the boatman heading back to base

A rod hopefully standing guard

A flag of surrender?

Behind you lie the salt marshes

And sparse, wind blown grasses

Ahead, the open sea

The sky was very hazy and the sea a milky blue as I wandered with my camera. What makes this beach special, though, is the view back across the lagoon to the fortress on the headland. There’s an almost mystical quality, to my mind, in being out there on the lagoon. The tide was low enough to plodge across to the shore, but the sea creeps in stealthily here and you can be caught out.

The fortress across the bay

A handful of people in the water

The fortress reflected in the salty puddles

The fortress reflected in salty puddles

I carry on beach combing as the tide flows gently back. Joyful cries and laughter reach me from the family on the sandbar. The Portuguese families revel in their beautiful surroundings. And I do, too.

Molluscs clinging tightly

Dried out sea thistles

Pearlescent shells

More beach ‘art’

And a delicate shimmer

Can you see the family on the sandbar?

Their boat, bobbing in the bay

I should explain that this beach stretches all the way back to Tavira. You can reach it by catching the ferry from Cabanas, and the beach will be much busier nearer to that resort. A very long beach walk would eventually bring you to this spot. In the winter months that or swimming across would be the only way to get here. Or a boat taxi, of course.

In the opposite direction, the beach rolls all the way to Spain, but first you have to cross over a channel. A boat is a very useful thing to own in this part of the world. Speaking of which, here comes the ferry.

We leave Cacela Velha behind

And head back to Fabrica

The end of our walk? Well, first we might have a snack at one of the beach bars. Then I’m going to show you the view from Cacela Velha over to ‘our’ beach, just to give you a sense of place. It’s only a half hour walk along the road to Cacela Velha or, if the tide’s not too high, you can walk the strip of beach that hugs the cliff. You’d then have to climb the steps to the village.

Sitting at a Fabrica beach bar

And there you have it- the view from the fort

And here you have it- the view from the fort!

Across to ‘our’ beach

And there’s even a bench to enjoy the view

Thanks for humoring me with this boat ride and saunter along the sands. My earlier walk gives you a land-based version, if you’re not a lover of boats. In either case, the views won’t disappoint. In the world’s top 15? I think there’d be strong competition. But I enjoyed it very much, and I hope you did too.

Thank you very much for all your support, and lovely comments. I have a fine time walking with you every week. If you’d like to join me, details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page or just a click on the logo above. Next comes the good bit. Put the kettle on and get ready for a good read!

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Humble apologies are due! I forgot to include this walk last week, so please rush over there first :

Urban Walk 2- Toronto Cityscape

Totally opposite in every way- beach shots to die for with Anabel!

Faraid Head

You can walk, or take the train. Either way, you’re bound to love the views!

A Walk in the Cinque Terre

Amy’s world is beautiful! Have you noticed?

Monday Walk : Architecture Walk, Austin, part 4

I’ve heard so many good things about Berlin. Let’s take a look, shall we?

Day 1- Dublin to Germany

A trip back in time with Drake this week? Any trip with Drake is good!

Yesterday, nowadays

And now for something completely different. Many thanks, Elena!

Renaissance Fair in Las Vegas

You wouldn’t get this level of activity on a UK beach ever, I don’t think! Lazy, aren’t we, Pauline?

Early Morning Beach Activities

Ruth has a totally fascinating tour for us this week. One not to miss :

Port Arthur Convict Settlement

The highlight of Geoff’s post for me is Wimbledon Park tube station. A blast from my youth!

Capital Ring- Earlsfield to Richmond

Jude always shares beautiful walks but she has really blown me away with this contribution!

A Walk on a Wild Ridge

If you really want to test your fitness levels, this could be the place :

A Tale of Two Peaks- Part 2

Once in a while I find something a bit different. For the foodies among you- say ‘hi’ to Ishita :

Iva’s Yummy Ljubljananjam Food Walk

Talking about unusual, thanks for these ‘wild’ animals in the city, Becky!

Panthers in Pittsburgh

I haven’t had a stroll with my friend Esther for a while. Sing along, won’t you?

Walk- Down the Canyon

The title of this next post could really have described mine, but they couldn’t be more different!

Walking, Sailing, Walking, Wading

And you can always rely on Gilly to find the beauty in life :

A Green Circle Walk

Or maybe a stroll in sunny Munich will suit? Thanks, Rosemay!

Nymphenburg The Summer Palace

Lastly, Denzil does his very best to give us a smile on a grey day :

Grey day in Grez-Doiceau

Lots this week, aren’t there? I do hope you can find the time to visit, and many thanks to all of you for keeping me such good company. I have one more Algarve walk in reserve, but next week I’m going to hurl myself into an English Autumn, before it passes me by. I’d love for you to join me. Have a great week, won’t you?

Jo’s Monday walk : Odemira, in the Alentejo

Rua Serpa Pinto in Odemira

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.

This bridge was a good start point!

There were a few clouds, but not too many

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.

No shortage of empty benches

And just around the bend, another bridge

Now which one of Jude’s bench challenges would this one fit?

It’s a nice enough view, isn’t it?

The path follows the river closely

With plenty of spots to linger

But that rowing boat is just out of reach!

Under the red road bridge

To this interesting structure

And there the path ends

Sorry, Jude- not a person in sight!

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.

Such a typical Portuguese street!

Coffee now, shopping later!

Freshly painted

Still waiting!

The elegant town fountain

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?

The modern square

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 :

Austrian upstairs

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!

Park Life

Amy and Jude are sharing park life this week- thousands of miles apart. Great minds! :

Monday Walk : Zilker Park

Jackie took me to Bantry Bay. Some distant damp day memories for me :

Junkboat Travels: Monday Walk

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?

A Walk in the Cinque Terre

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!

Ancient Stone

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?

Castro Marim Medieval Fair (2)

Looking down from the fortress walls, in Castro Marim

In yesterday’s post I left you looking out from these walls to the border with Spain. Beneath the castle, tickets were going on sale for the Castro Marim Medieval Fair. 8 euros bought you an earthenware cup (to fill with your tipple of choice), a cardboard crown (one size fits all- or almost!) and entry to the castle. The streets were starting to fill up, and it seemed a good time to browse the stalls, before the entertainment began.

Click on any photo to view the gallery

Everyone seemed ready to join in

Including the mayor and local dignitaries

Just a few last minute taps needed

Any fair maiden needing a headdress?

A skirling of pipes and the thunder of drums had me glancing over my shoulder. Look out- the excitement is just about to begin!

Here they come!

Such focus!

Just time to immerse myself in Arabia before the next group! Exotic teas, cakes, sweets, nuts and magic lanterns. A cornucopia of delights!

Pipes of peace?

These look good!

What kind of tea?

And such pretty lamps!

A little more music!

The stalls are full of enticements and exotica, and the hand-crafted furniture is enough to make a maiden swoon into a finely carved seat.

Silver everywhere!

In every shape and size

And colour scheme

But for all the razzle, these are my favourites

But despite all that dazzles, the lady in blue is my favourite

At this point it becomes impossible to focus on shopping. The parade has arrived- an amazement of stilt walkers, tumblers, weird and wonderful costumes and masks, and the most hypnotic and enigmatic of magicians. I am enthralled.

Slinking and striding

Tumbling into the action

Definitely bizarre!

This guy stole the show for me

His skills defied the camera!

Food stalls tempt and wonderful aromas waft, but dusk is about to descend and the time has come to mount the steps to the castle. Yet more entertainment is planned for the evening. What else can there be?

The scene from the church steps

I won’t discourage you by showing the number of steps and the cobbles, shiny with age. But take it slowly, wear sensible shoes, and the excitement and momentum will carry you there. Once through the ancient gates, a Medieval world appears before your very eyes.

There’s always a Fool!

And stalls displaying craftsman’s skills

Like candle making

A display of flag throwing takes place

And the owl looks on, impressed?

The scene is set

And the sinking sun adds to the spectacle

Up on the castle walls, I look down on the church

Then back at the setting splendour

The air is thick with the scent and smoke of barbecuing meat. More and more people throng into the castle. Small faces look up at me, aglow with the lamplight and the excitement, clutching tightly to a parents hand. Shadows flicker on the walls.

Beyond the wall the moon gently glows over the salt pans

There is courtly dancing, a banquet to eat (but the queue for tickets is long!) and later the promise of medieval combat and jousting, but it’s time for me to slip away, sated with the day. Down in the streets the party is in full throttle and people continue to arrive. I am seduced by the notion of sangria of figs. Just one small indulgence before I go.

And the dance goes on!

This is the second part of a post that I have linked to the Capturing History Challenge and I hope that you’ll take a look. I couldn’t help but smile, though, when I saw that the Daily Post challenge this week is entitled Happy Place, a place to escape to and ‘recharge your groove’. Most of you who know me are well aware that the Algarve is my happy place. For 51 weeks of the year the village of Castro Marim is an oasis of peace and calm. Perhaps you can use your imagination and make these people disappear.

Apologies to my Six Word Saturday friends. I won’t be taking part tomorrow. I hope you can join me on Monday for a walk instead.

Castro Marim Medieval Fair 2015 (1)

The castelo at Castro Marim

Seldom have I seen such a sleepy little place so transformed, and yet you have only to look at these fortifications to know that Castro Marim has a turbulent past. Situated at the cut and thrust of the Portuguese border with Spain, the Medieval Fair brings back to life the mighty fortress of São Sebastião. In the 14th century the castle was a stronghold of the Knights Templar, but it fell into disuse when additional fortifications were built on the hill opposite, in the 17th century. The fortress is seldom open to the public so I was delighted to find it playing a major role in the festival.

If you’re interested in the history of Castro Marim the link will tell you more. For myself, I’m going to take a quiet stroll, before the crowds descend.

The church is looking wonderfully festive

You can click on any of the galleries below to see the photos in more detail.

The town banner proudly displayed

The stalls almost ready for action

With everyone keen to join in

These steps won’t be empty for long!

Time to ascend the steps to the fortress

Time to ascend to the fortress, above the village rooftops

You can see it was built on solid ground!

The view across to the castle, and in the distance, Spain

This guy looked very fierce, so I only took a back view!

The horses were sheltered from the hot sun

The people too, planning the day ahead

Or maybe it’s time for tea?

It was a sultry day and not hard to get into the mood. From within the fortress came grunts and clangs, the ‘masters’ putting the youth through their paces. A smattering of people looked on, choosing a favourite.

Who will come off best?

I was astounded by the thickness of the walls

Surmounted by a lookout

With views of the salt pans and beyond

A plan of the layout

The bridge across the River Guadiana to Spain is just visible, behind the castle

I’m ready to saunter back down into the streets, where the parade is about to start. Before I do, I’d like to link this post to Ed Mooney’s Capturing History Challenge, which I’ve been meaning to join for a week or two. He’ll explain how it works to you, and I’ll be back tomorrow with the parade and a look inside the castle. Join me then?

Jo’s Monday walk : Carrapateira

A nice way to travel?

Don’t get too excited- we’re walking, of course! On our recent trip to the Algarve, we picked up a guide to walking trails in the local Tourist Information Office. It’s available to download online, but with more than 30 walks and over 100 pages, it’s much easier to pay 7 euros for your own copy. I’ve included the link, just so you can see what you’re missing.

Today’s walk is based on ‘Trail of Tides’, a shortened version of no. 16 in the guide. I didn’t undertake the whole 19kms, not because I’m lazy, but because we had already, that day, driven down the coast from the Alentejo and a riverside walk there. Nothing too strenuous was planned.

A paddle might be nice before we get started

A paddle might be nice, before we begin?

The walk starts in the tiny village of Carrapateira, just off the west coast of the Algarve. A cluster of cafes, a surf shop and a church- who needs more? Oh, and there’s an old windmill too! At the southern end of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentina protected nature park, a small stream, the Ribeira da Carrapateira, flows out through the dunes.

The main square

A pretty corner

And a church

The windmill

And Don Quixote?

You walk out of the village through a straggle of houses, in the direction of the coast. It’s a tarmacked road initially, and as it winds up the hill you could be forgiven for wondering why you hadn’t brought the car. My husband did!

But then, you’d miss views like this

And more importantly, this!

As you crest the brow of the hill you begin to appreciate just where you are

On top of the world, with the whole of the Portuguese coastline rolling away from you on either side. At this point you exchange tarmac for dirt track, but still occasional cars continued to bump past us.

There are plenty of boardwalks to get closer to the cliff edge

There are plenty of boardwalks to take you closer to the cliff edge

Where the tantalising glint of the water beckons

And the coast curves invitingly ahead

Despite the beauty of the views the sun was beginning to lower in the sky, and it still felt like a long way back to our beginnings. Perhaps it would have been a wise move to bring the car, and park at each of the viewing points, as many seemed to do? But that would have been cheating, wouldn’t it?

The lookouts are at strategic points

In the distance, the rocks at Pontal

Carrapateira point, or Pontal, has a jutting headland that made it a likely place for shipwrecks in the past. The rock formations look deceptively similar to Cabo de S. Vicente, the south west tip of Portugal, eleven miles further south. The rapid southbound current that adds to the danger also creates perfect conditions for surfing.

Today the water is deceptively calm

Alluring Amado, in the distance

Some days everything goes to plan, and some it doesn’t. The famed surfing beach at Amado was still far ahead. We knew that following the trail would take us there, but then we’d have to head inland, back to the village, in gathering gloom. The joy of this particular trail is that there are alternatives. Just beyond the headland the trail splits in two. The left hand path will fairly swiftly bring you back to the village, or you can carry on down the coast.

The red cliffs tumbling away

Reassuringly, Carrapateira appears ahead

Another day I might take you to Amado, but you need to get there early. The little car park soon fills up. Carrapateira itself lies directly on the N268 coast road. The link to the walking trails guide at the top of the page will give you full details, and a few other ideas besides.

Time to relax and put that kettle on!

Yet again I have some wonderful walks to share with you this week. Many thanks to all my contributors. I greatly appreciate your loyalty, and I get enormous pleasure from sharing our walks together. For anyone who doesn’t know the format, my Jo’s Monday walk page will tell you how to join in. Just click on my logo. You’ll be warmly welcomed.

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What better way to start a new week than with a walk from Jude?

Garden Portrait: More from Nymans

Who knew Texas was this beautiful? Thanks, Amy!

Monday Walk: Walking along the lake

Drake brings so much pleasure with his little insights and views on life :

Raid into the fall

Up hill and down dale- Geoff takes us to the Bec :

The Capital Ring: Crystal Palace to Tooting

I always have fun with Pauline, no matter where she wanders :

Bangalow, a country gem

Time to get a little adventurous with Ruth. Not too scary- you’ll like it!

Airwalk, glider and swing bridges

Deeply honoured to have Sonel joining us on the walks this week. Don’t miss!

500px Fujifilm Global Photo Walk : Damwall and Schoemansville Oewerclub

Step back in time beautifully with Suzanne (and I DO mean back!)

A walk in the bush

Pauline’s garden is a tropical paradise! No wonder she doesn’t mind going home :

Home from the Hills

Look- the tide’s out! Come on, be quick- follow Anabel!

Marwick Head and Birsay

And lastly, my favourite walk of the week. I’m sure you’ll know why!

Cobbles and Blue Sky, a Tavira stroll

I have a slight dilemma facing me this week. I hope to be with you to share more walks next week, but there may be problems. No worries! I’ll keep you informed. Meantime you might like to give those guys at Monday Escapes a shout. Have a great week, won’t you, and happy walking!

Six word Saturday

Waiting for a little night music!

The sun begins to set over FIESA in the Algarve

The sun starts to set on FIESA, in the Algarve

Click on any photo to view the gallery

I recognise that frown!

Not so sure about this?

With a swish of her skirt!

What ARE they thinking?

Disapproving of Willy Wonka?

It’s Show Time!

Songs from the musicals

Phantom

And Che!

What? What did I say?

Not late again!

Such a sad Pierrot

Serenaded by Angels

And a mournful Geisha

I’ve visited the International Sand Sculpture FIESA, at Pera, several times, but never in the evening. This Summer I arrived just as the sun was starting to fade. At first I wandered, nodding and smiling in recognition, and admiring the craftsmanship. Choosing favourites. Gradually the sand sculptures took on colour. Just a spotlight or two at first.

The Beatles

And Queen

With Lennon

Time to sit in the cafe with Laurel and Hardy, and wait

For the colours to deepen

Enhancing the drama

With a smile or two

And a frown!

Don’t knock the d-j!

Or the world’s greatest rock band

I imagine you’ve guessed that the theme this year is Music. FIESA started in 2003 and runs from late March till October each year, so if you happen to be in the area, you just have time! Full details are on the link.

Hope I’ve kept you entertained for a little while. Have a great weekend and don’t forget to join me on Monday for a walk. Better just pop in on Cate first, with your Six word Saturday.

Jo’s Monday walk : Vila Nova de Milfontes

Looking down from the castelo at Vila Nova de Milfontes

Looking down from the castelo of Vila Nova de Milfontes

I don’t know what it is about castles and beaches but they seem to me a very pleasing combination. And the one above, in the Alentejo, isn’t the only one I found. But we have to start somewhere so today I thought I’d take you over the Algarve border, and on up the western coastline of Portugal. I have been to this area before but never so far as Vila Nova de Milfontes.

Situated at the mouth of the River Mira, the presence of the castle tells you that it was not always so peaceful here. Forte de São Clemente still has a drawbridge. Dating back to 1485, the town had a key defensive role to play, and the wide estuary provided a safe harbour. Today it’s not pirates we have to fear so much as tourists. The town is part of the Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina national park, which stretches all the way down the coast and into the Algarve. As such it enjoys a good measure of protection, and development is largely low rise.

Not for nothing is this known as the windy coast, and in my short visit it was highly apparent that this could be a cool spot. (the wind sometimes whistled in the corners of my hotel) But I also experienced some lovely sunshine, so let’s take a wander through the town.

We’ll start here in the shade of the castle

There’s a tiny square, Praça da Barbacã, very atmospheric at night, which looks down on the ferry point. A rather strange sculpture has pride of place. It pays tribute to the role played locally in aviation between Portugal and Macau in the Far East.

The drawbridge

The monument to aviation

This is the nicest part of town, as you wander gently uphill through a mix of older houses and new. There’s a small, simple church and a few gift shops. What appears to be a tiny cafe turns out to be a 3 storey Tardis, serving food to half the town, myself included! I meander along, past ochre and immaculate blue and white, letting my eye drift, as it does.

The church, in blue and white

Plain inside, with just a few decorative touches

And a Madonna

With matching nearby houses

Stylish street signs

Inviting street corners

Simple facades

And gay additions

But wait! There are surprises in store.

Who’s this?

These guys kept hanging around

Just a little sinister?

I thought that there must be some kind of scarecrow festival going on, but this was the only evidence I found. Just one ‘spooky’ street, with an interesting shop or two for delving.

I step inside to look at the cork products

And these cheerful fellows

Maybe a seahorse with attitude?

And on the street corner, a good-looking place to stay

Pausing, I look down to the right and catch a glimpse of water. Like a magnet, I’m drawn.

Don’t you love this tree?

A kayak or two

And a litter of boats

Looking back you can see the road bridge spanning the River Mira which brings you into town, but ahead the estuary opens out. Locals race against the tide to winkle out errant shellfish. Beneath my feet, a shelf of lavishly coloured rock.

Gazing out to sea

A tired dolphin

A fugitive from the tide?

The rock beneath my feet

And here's the ferry point. It's lunch hour!

And here’s the ferry point, at lunch hour

Not a lot of action going on

Just my husband, waiting!

A group of backpackers sit in the shade. I wonder where they’re off to next. It feels like a transient place, and I know that there are beaches aplenty, just waiting.

Time to mount the steps back to the castelo- not too arduous!

There are pretty distractions

Like this kingfisher

And here you have your reward!

I hope you enjoyed our morning amble. That fresh sea air always does me a power of good. The resort has probably stayed so peaceful because it’s quite a distance from the nearest airport, Lisbon, and you would probably need to drive there.

Time to share some walks. Got the kettle on?

Some of these folks have had a long wait to be included this week, so apologies if you’ve already been there. Please do visit them if you haven’t. If you’d like to join in, details can be found on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo. You’ll be very welcome.

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Let’s start the ball rolling with Bratislava. Wouldn’t I love to accompany Debbie there? This is SO pretty!

No Feeling Blue Here

Blue skies in the Shetlands for Anabel. Lucky, or what?

Jarlshof to Sumburgh Head

Car boot sale anyone? Actually Violet’s calling it a Farmer’s Market :

To market, to market

Random but very enjoyable rambles with Jackie and Frida Kahlo :

Monday’s Walk

Fairmont Banff Springs! Sadly this luxury is not for me, but just look at Amy’s photos!

Monday Walk : Castle in the Wilderness (2)

Drake pays a wonderful tribute to ‘strong women’ :

The shades of Joan of Arc

And, in my absence, he took a little walk with the Beatles!

Nowhere walk

While Jaspa takes us strolling ‘down South America way’ :

The Streets of Santiago, Chile

Jill takes us for a fun wander (and I think there’s street art too)

Auckland City on a good day

What do Errol Flynn and Hobart have in common? Find out with Ruth!

A walk around Battery Point

Fascination and excitement from the Southern hemisphere! You’ll find it with Laia :

Rotorua: Maori culture and geothermal activity

And please welcome another ‘fit person’ to my walks. You may have difficulty keeping up!

Memories of Ireland: Mount Brandon

Jude has excelled herself in my absence, with 3 new walks! The most recent one unfortunately ended with a limp.

Garden Portrait : RHS Wisley part 1

Garden Portrait : RHS Wisley part 2

A painful memory or two here from Jude- suffering for her art!

Garden Portrait : Painshill Park

Unfortunately I won’t be walk leading next Monday as I’ll still be recovering from a Polish wedding. I’m only gone a few days and hope to be back on track after that. Seriously! Meantime you might like to keep an eye on those lovely lasses at Monday Escapes. Take care, and enjoy your walking!

restlessjo

Roaming, at home and abroad

Portugal

Six word Saturday

In Tavira, it goes like this…

Jo’s Monday walk : Vaqueiros

Jo’s Monday walk : Barranco das Lajes

Jo’s Monday walk : Fabrica to Cacela Velha

Jo’s Monday walk : Odemira, in the Alentejo

Castro Marim Medieval Fair (2)

Castro Marim Medieval Fair 2015 (1)

Jo’s Monday walk : Carrapateira

Six word Saturday

Waiting for a little night music!

Jo’s Monday walk : Vila Nova de Milfontes

In Tavira, it goes like this…

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Waiting for a little night music!

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