walking

Jo’s Monday walk : Saltburn in Winter

Some towns work really hard at making the best of what they have. Saltburn-by-the-Sea, on the North Yorkshire coast, is certainly one of those. The second you step out of the railway station, you are welcomed by a frieze of mosaics, colourfully depicting many of the town’s landmarks. The towering cliffs of Huntcliff Nab form a constant and beautiful backdrop at the end of the street.

A saunter through majestic Victorian architecture will bring you down to the Valley Gardens. A miniature steam train, ‘Prince Charles’, chuffs the length of the valley in the summer months. Then there’s the beach, promenade and cliff lift, all offering their entertainments. The pier stretches out to embrace the salt spray of the North Sea. Parasols a-twirling, return to gaze upon Huntcliff Nab.

I love the whimsical nod to days gone by in these mosaics. It’s an easy enough stroll. Come with me and I’ll show you how it all looks this winter.

Followers of this blog will be no strangers to Saltburn. We’ve walked here together before. I hadn’t really intended to take you there today, but my husband was measuring the garden of a lovely old Grade II listed house, in the town. With a couple of hours to kill, I wasn’t going to waste an opportunity, now was I?

Let’s start with a look at some of the quirky shop fronts. Browsing here is seldom dull. See anything you like?

That’s quite enough of indulgence. Keep that pie and mash shop in mind for later. The owner looks very welcoming. First we need a little bracing air. It’s not too cold today, evidenced by the numbers on the beach. The cliff lift stands lonely in silhouette, steps taking us down to the shoreline.

No yarn bombing on the pier, as yet, but I’m sure that it will arrive in the summer. Remember Alice, from last year?

The beach stretches off into the distance. Children stamp and twirl gleefully on the sand. Dog walkers are out in abundance. A couple of opportunists sweep the beach in search of treasure. Their find, multi-coloured pebbles, unwinking, except where caught in a flowing stream. A life scored deep within their grooves and whorls. Strands of seaweed, unfurling briny curls.

It’s time to turn and head back beside the crumbling cliffs. Filigree patterns beneath the pier, and above, a bench to read on or simply watch the ebb and flow of tide.

There’s a lovely corner cafe, beside Cat Nab, just before you reach the brig. You can watch the stream gushing into Valley Gardens from the outdoor terrace. It’s a little muddy through there today. So much rain in recent times! It’s a steep pull back up to the cliff top, where you’ll be welcomed by the Victorian wicker family. Some kind soul has knit them poppy buttonholes.

That’s it for another week! Pie and mash, or did you indulge at the corner cafe? Time to put the kettle on now, and join my walking friends.

Huge thanks, as always, to my contributors, and to those of you who simply like to keep me company. If you’d like to join in at any time, details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo above.

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Anabel goes in search of sunshine this week :

Bermuda : Somerset to the Dockyard

Geoff’s in Dulwich, looking at the definition of village :

Village Life

Amy’s found the most beautiful restaurant!

Monday Walk : Ybor City

Funny how some names always conjure up a song. Any Steely Dan fans out there?

Day 1- Guadalajara

Good to welcome somebody new to the walks, so please head for Scotland and say ‘hi’ to Smidge :

Winter in the Botanics

Jude’s left her plants, temporarily, for a bit of a tongue twister this week :

Scrobbesbyrig/Shrewsbury : a look at stone buildings

Among many other talents, Nicole is an accomplished hiker. Just take a look!

Best Hikes in Tucson : Bear Canyon’s hike to Seven Falls

Drake is in romantic mood. Who wouldn’t be, in Venice?

L’atmosphere noire

A head for heights and a sense of humour are what you’ll need on Esther’s walk :

Walk on a Tightrope

Or, if you’re still feeling romantic?

Walk of Love

What might you expect to see in Panama? Jaspa’s your man!

The Real San Blas Islands

I learnt a little more Welsh today, with Student in Snowdonia. ‘Yr Aran’ – The Peak :

The Peak

I like the idea of tapestries on my walls. Maybe I should try life in a castle :

Bunratty Castle- Home of an Irish King

A great selection, aren’t they? I had intended to close my walks for 2 weeks, but my lovely husband pointed out that we don’t leave for the Algarve until next Monday afternoon. Plenty of time for another, he said! It’s not the walking that’s hard. It’s keeping up with the responses. We’ll see! Have a wonderful week, meantime.

Jo’s Monday walk : High Force and Gibson’s Cave

It’s almost like a watercolour, isn’t it? The light was so beautiful on that late December day in Teesdale, and the sense of freedom was intoxicating. The days on either side of it had sheeted with rain, and there was little doubt in my mind that the Tees would be in full spate. Where better to head than spectacular High Force waterfall, situated within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Beauty?

From the car parking at High Force, you can walk down to view the falls and then follow the river downstream to Low Force, pictured in my first photo. A sign at the top of the path grabbed my attention- a reminder that the power of nature is nothing new at all.

High Force formed where the River Tees crosses the Whin Sill– a hard layer of igneous rock. The waterfall itself is comprised of three different types of rock. The upper band is whinstone, or dolerite- a hard igneous rock which is slow to erode. The lower section is carboniferous limestone- much softer and easily worn away. Between the two, carboniferous sandstone was baked hard when Whin Sill was molten 295 million years ago. This combination means that the waterfall is slowly moving upstream as the rock wears away.

I had no sense of this, as I stood there, enveloped in a world of water. The temporary fine weather, and the respite between Christmas and New Year, had brought the crowds to gaze in wonder. I edged as close as I could, happy to worship alongside them.

As I walked back up the path, the rocks streamed with water, and the frailty of the trees was visible all around me. It’s many years since I was last at High Force, and I had to ask myself why. The countryside is so beautiful!

Looking at the map in the car park, I followed the river along to Bowlees Visitor Centre, and my attention was caught by a short walk to Gibson’s Cave. Something new to me! My husband knew from the glint in my eye that this was my next target.

I was delighted to find that the somewhat muddy path followed a tributary of the river, and that there were more waterfalls in store.

The route bypasses abandoned Bowlees Quarry and I stopped to read the signs. It was too wet underfoot to do more.

The drystone walls and even the fences were covered in spongy, green moss, but it was the bed of the river that captivated. The rock formation was unlike anything I’d seen before- an intricate scratching of patterns .

You can see the path, running alongside the falls. It was a little slippy in places and I had to scramble through a fallen tree, but the end was in sight- Gibson’s Cave. But who was Gibson? A ‘lovable rogue’, apparently.

Did you read the explanation of the patterns on the river bed? Layers of grey limestone, sandstone and dark shale, in a tropical sea about 330 million years ago. Quite incredible! And Gibson? A happy, 16th century outlaw.

That wasn’t the end of my adventures for the day, but I think that it’s a good point at which to stop. The Bowlees Visitor Centre is nearby and, if you’re lucky, it might be open. Cake, or something more substantial?

Next week we’ll carry on to Low Force. It’s just as lovely, so I hope that you can join me.

First things first- let’s put the kettle on and get settled for a good read. Huge thanks to my lovely contributors! If you have a walk you’d like to share I’m always happy to have you along. Details of how to join in are on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo above.

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Let’s start with Debbie, and some beautiful views of Edinburgh :

Up Calton Hill

Jackie is still enjoying Mexico!

Monday Walk- La Noria

And Amy takes me to a beach I remember from long ago :

Monday Walk : Clearwater Beach

There’s one thing my friend Drake has for sure!

Independent Mind (And a love of beautiful places too)

Back to the rain forest with Lee Ann for two super walks, in quite different places!

O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk

MacRitchie Trails Rainforest Walk

Anyone ready for a snowy walk yet? Not too much snow, I promise!

Alone in the Snow : Mynydd Mawr

Surely one of the prettiest walks from the festive season! Many thanks, Jude :

Christmas Glow

Meanwhile, Richard is topical (and maybe a bit windswept!) :

There’s more to Boscastle than floods

And Denzil is eating blackberries :

Masbourg : How Green is my Valley

If you had a garden like Pauline’s, you would never mind coming home :

Back Home in the Garden

That’s it for another week! My walking group will be out today, weather permitting. First walk together after the New Year, and we’re sticking to footpaths- no boggy fields! Take care of yourselves!

Jo’s Monday walk : Newstead Abbey

Newstead Abbey in Nottinghamshire is the perfect setting for a Victorian period drama. Yet I was unprepared for the small characters chattering excitedly in the grounds. The Abbey itself, formerly the home of poet Lord Byron, was closed to visitors, but I had come seeking fresh air and a stroll in the lovely grounds. I had company, and naturally my daughter was fittingly dressed for the occasion. To the manor born, without a doubt.

A long drive sweeps up to the house, thick with rhododendrons and camelia. There are over 300 acres of parkland and gardens, and cars can park quite near to the house. Let’s save a little energy and sashay straight into the gardens. A former monastic residence, the priory dates back to 1274. I showcased the house and the Byron connection on a previous visit (and got to meet Santa!) if you’d like to know more.

The Garden Lake swells out in front of the house, and you can walk all around it. The lakes, ponds and cascades that ornament these gardens are fed by the River Leen. Pass by the unappetisingly named Monk’s Stew Pond (probably once a fishpond for the monks) to delve into the Fernery.

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The grotto has an interior made from Derbyshire tufa, whilst some of the old carved stones used in the Fernery probably came from the ruins of the priory church. Built into the wall with the alcove were terracotta stands, for the display of potted ferns.

Bright berries gleam from the foliage and a drift of lemon whispers its presence in among the shrubs. For all that this is a garden in winter, there is no lack of interest. The rolling hedges are clipped pleasingly to the eye. It’s so easy to meander among them, beguiled by shapes and shadows.

The formal shapes of the Rose Garden and Small Walled Garden invite closer inspection. Both were once part of a two and a half acre kitchen garden. In heated glasshouses, now demolished, grapes, melons, peaches and winter cucumbers were grown. Even in a mild December, roses were few, but I liked the quirky mesh gardeners who kept us company.

A willow sculpture catches my eye, complete with bench. Too late for THAT challenge, I’m afraid!

Behind the house, the Great Garden is a formal garden of terraced walks descending to a large rectangular pond. Two swans splashed each other playfully, just out of range of my camera. The adjacent French and Spanish gardens are among my favourites. Every Spring in the 1830s and 40s the gardener laid fresh red and white sand, in intricate patterns, directly onto the soil in the French Garden. It was affectionately known as the ’embroidery garden’.

The Boatswain’s Monument sits mournfully at the centre of the lawn, Byron’s tribute to his beloved Newfoundland dog. The inscription speaks of ‘Beauty without Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage without Ferocity, and all the Virtues of Man without his vices’.

Are you beginning to flag yet? I believe the tearooms are open. Muffins and gingerbread latte, before or after we tackle the lake?

The shadows are lengthening and there’s a hint of chill in the air. Ominous clouds dot the sky so we won’t linger much longer. It’s not the time of year to view the yellow water lily, wild angelica, water forget-me-not, corn mint and the many species that surround the Garden Lake, but it is still undeniably beautiful, don’t you think?

The Japanese garden with its lovely cascades is looking a little bedraggled, but we can still cross the stepping stones to admire the lanterns. There’s one more feature I’ve left deliberately till the end, and someone’s waiting there to say goodbye. Accompany me to the waterfall?

The gift shop, with its pretty things, was calling to my daughter. We lingered just a shade too long, and came out into a deluge of a different kind! Brollies aloft, we scurried to the car. The day ended with a magical double rainbow and I felt truly blessed. I hope you have enjoyed our company today. (and that of the children from Woodthorpe school)

The Newstead Abbey website includes a detailed garden tour, which you might like to follow, plus details of how to get there.

You may already know that Jude has chosen to abandon her benches. Sigh! The challenge has run for a highly successful year, but it’s time to move on. My Winter garden, though not quite what she was hoping for, is my first contribution to the new challenge. I’ll definitely have to be honing my skills (or trying!) Her first post is a stunner, but I won’t spoil it for you. Go and look!

Meanwhile, it’s time to get the kettle on and share a few more walks. I hope that all of you, walkers or not, have enjoyed their Christmas break. Many thanks for all your contributions but, more importantly, your friendship. Join me whenever you like. Details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page, or the logo above.

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First, come beach combing with Drake on the lovely little Danish island, Samsø :

Stone-washed path

There’s a certain fascination about a lighthouse, isn’t there?

Cape Byron Lighthouse

Jackie was still ‘down Mexico way’, hopefully enjoying the sunshine :

El Quelite, Mazatlan

Let me introduce you to a Slovenian Girl abroad, in Switzerland. Such pretty photos!

Zurich in December

And a lovely lady in another good-looking place. Please welcome Mitza to my walks :

A walk through Hamburg in Winter

Debbie has found a nice little beach, somewhere you might not expect :

A Seaside Walk in Edinburgh

While Jaspa would have me galloping this week!

Best. Crossing. Ever!- Santiago, Chile

This next isn’t a walk, and might be better suited to Jude’s Garden challenge, but I want to share it with you, courtesy of Debra :

Huntington Botanical Gardens and El Nino Watch 2016

Some people can just always be relied on! Walk with Gilly. She’s a sweetheart!

Another Quay Perspective

Brisbane and the rainforest is my final destination. Thanks Lee Ann!

Moran Falls – Sculpture by Nature

That’s it for now! Breathes big sigh! If I’m slow responding this week it’s because I have Polish family visiting for a few days (including a very special uncle) but normality (ha!) will be restored on Thursday. Take care till then!

P.S Those lovely ladies at Monday Escapes are back if you have 5 minutes to wish them Happy New Year.

Jo’s Monday walk : Salt marshes at Fuseta

It’s that ‘betwixt and between’, Christmas time and the New Year. The weather has been atrocious in so many places and some people will be spending it mopping up and repairing their homes. I haven’t managed too much walking lately myself, but I do still have some happy memories to share. Shall we take a little salt marsh stroll in the Eastern Algarve? Nothing too strenuous! At day’s end, we can even linger by the beach awhile.

The sky is blue, and that’s a good start! I’ve taken you to Fuseta before. It’s a little off the beaten track, but beloved by campers for the beachfront camp site. New development unkindly overshadows the distinctive fishermen’s homes. Prime location is key, after all, but the fishermen pursue their livelihood as they always did. The settlement dates back to 1572, and the fishing boats still cluster together in the mouth of the Rio Tronoco.

Approximately 10km east of Olhão, you turn off the E125 and follow the narrow road, over the railway tracks and down past the river mouth to the shore. Except in high Summer you will find ample parking beside the camp site. With the sea on your left, walk between the fishermen’s houses and the new apartment blocks facing the sea. The salt marshes open out where the road ends.

It’s a distinctive landscape, and habitat for all kinds of birds. I’ve grown to love it’s oft times, unkempt appearance when the tide is low. Spears of sunlight glinting on high water will reward my patience later. Coots bob gently on the surface, while their longer-legged friends peck, and choose.

Paths lead between the salt pans but you would be ill advised to follow any that are not obviously well trodden. Cyclists zip past, some with a smile and a wave. Looking back, houses randomly dot the marsh borders, and in the distance the new builds gleam, whitely.

You can follow the cycle track all the way to Olhao if you wish, but I did promise you a shorter walk, so I’m meandering back, on the main path across the marshes. I know of a good bench or three, where you can watch the locals play boules and still keep an eye on the sea.

You’ll be wanting a stop at the beach cafe, but I might just tempt you to a stroll along the river mouth first? You know I like a boat or two!

It’s a little ragged around the edges, but Fuseta is a real and honest place, with a working population. I hope you enjoyed accompanying me on my stroll. Shall we head back to that cafe now? I hear there’s cake!

I’ve had a great time walking with you all this year. Thank you for the support. It has been amazing! I worry sometimes that the formula is growing stale. I know that I will carry on walking and sharing, because I love it, but I would hate for you to be bored. You can say so, politely, in the comments, if you wish. I promise not to take offense. For now, I’m going to put that kettle on.

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Not many shares this week, as you’ve all been busy with Christmas! Hopefully you’ll find time to read just a few excellent ones. Many thanks to my contributors! My Jo’s Monday walk page gives details of how to join in.

Drake’s post was wonderfully Christmassy! Happy New Year to you, sir!

Walkaround

Over at Junkboat Travels they were making a proper holiday of it :

Mazatlan, Mexico

Why not visit Jaspa’s favourite city? You may be in for a surprise :

Secret Itineraries Tour, Doge’s Palace, Venice

One of my joys on Christmas morning was this precious gift from Meg. Please don’t miss it!

Eurobodalla beaches : Wasp Head

And my lovely friend Gilly proves that murky weather doesn’t have to make you miserable :

A Boxing Day stroll

Please do join me on Jo’s Monday walk next week, when I’ll be celebrating the launch of Jude’s new Garden Photography Challenge. I have a rather nice English garden to share. But first, I’d like to wish you a very happy and healthy New Year, and lots of walking!

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 : Aira Force

Beautiful Aira Force

You have no idea how delighted I was to be able to visit Aira Force! The forecast wasn’t great and, as we approached the English Lake District, a swirl of damp cloaked the mountains. But a waterfall’s no good without the water, is it? And in Autumn, the canopy of leaves radiates! Driving through a tunnel of flame and gold, the senses are filled with wonder.

I had planned to walk to the falls from the nearby village of Glenridding, our base for the evening, but the road south from Pooley Bridge bypassed them. Carpe diem had never seemed so appropriate. A pocket of opportunity, as the drizzle ceased momentarily.

The National Trust car park

The car park was not as deserted as I might have expected, though the picnic tables were definitely unoccupied. There were just enough people to exchange smiles with, in a ‘good to be alive’ sort of way. A celebration of our good fortune.

Heading towards the Pinetum

A mingling of moss and leaves

With beautiful bracken as a bonus

A seat for one

The drama of age

And a coin tree

Those coins get everywhere!

Treading carefully on the damp leaves underfoot, I could hear already the gurgle of water. The stream chuckled merrily on its way to the lake. Not far to go! But for me, it was upwards by a series of steps, pausing often to admire my beautiful surroundings.

Onwards and upwards!

The leaves and moss a constant companion

And bracken too

I was eager for my first sighting of the waterfall. Suddenly, through the trees, I caught a glimpse of its magnificense.

So alluring!

But first a little more bracken

And a few more steps

And we’ve reached the bridge

The sound of rushing water has reached a crescendo. Steps lead down to the bridge and I cannot stop myself from descending. I lean over and gaze in worshipful awe. From beneath me, the falls tear away to join the calm of the lake.

The falls tear away to the lake from beneath me

Leaping joyfully down to Ullswater

I peer in fascination

Loving the tumultuous excitement

The leaf a captive spectator

Leaving the lower bridge behind, I head on up to the top of the falls, the water my constant companion. That and the moss and leaves. It’s possible to continue up to Gowbarrow Fell and the trig point for views all along the lake, but on a murky day like this the visibility would be poor. And I’m so loath to leave the water behind.

My constant companion

Moss and bracken

Leaves

Chirruping water

And my other companion

The air feels increasingly damp and we decide to retrace our steps and cross over the upper bridge. The descent on the other side of the falls is down yet more steps, but they are well spaced, and not too slippy in stout shoes.

Heading back down

The leaves glistening with rain

And carpeting the steps

We can now look back at the full 65 foot height of the falls, which I found very difficult to photograph. My little camera has its limits, and I most certainly do. I have too much ‘white light’ in the shot. I tried different angles but it didn’t help. I’m sorry!

But I was much taken with this aged log

A certain person was getting rather impatient. I suspect you might be ready for a seat somewhere too. I spotted a lovely one but it was a bit damp.

What do you think?

He’s wondering when we’re going to get to cake!

I think we’ve had enough exercise, don’t you? I hope you enjoyed it, despite all those steps. This link will give you clearer guidance on how to negotiate the various paths, and National Trust can help you to get here.

Many thanks to so many of you who have again contributed to making my Monday walks a great place to be. Shall we get the kettle on, ready for a good read? If you’d like to join me you’ll be made very welcome. Full details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo above.

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Introducing Phoebe, in the lovely South of France, with not a drop of rain in sight. Please say hello :

Coast Walk : the Cap d’Antibes

Tobermory says Scotland to me, but this one’s equally beautiful. Thanks, Violet Sky!

Tobermory

Sounds like a good book? And you’ll enjoy Anabel’s company, in Scotland!

Two Towers

Amy has something pretty spectacular for you this week :

Monday Walk : Cascade Caverns

The cutest giraffes! Thanks for taking us to the zoo, Jackie :

The Living Desert, Palm Springs CA

Photos do not come any more beautiful than this first one! Many thanks, Lucile :

Sally D’s Mobile Photography Challenge : Nature

Jesh always has an interesting take on life. And there’s an apple cake recipe too!

Apple Hill

I know you’ll all be waiting for Part 2 of Rotterdam. I was! Bring on the windmills, Elena!

Rotterdam in a Day (part 2)

Denzil finds some strange things in the Belgian countryside :

Outrelouxhe : Just because… I like the name

If you’re seeking entertainment you can’t do better than join Badfish!

Treats and Tricks in Oman

And as I’ve pointed out before, Tobias has a very different take on life :

Pezenas

Wonderful variety again this week so thank you all very much. It’s going to be a wild one, I think, so hang onto your hats! Have a happy one and I’ll see you all soon.

Jo’s Monday walk : Following mountain goats!

Now don’t be too alarmed! It’s not as bad as it seems, and if you really don’t have a head for heights- well, you can tak’ the low road, and I’ll tak’ the high road. To be completely truthful, I was out of my comfort zone for a short while, but we can blame the partner for that (and he’s not here to defend himself).

The area along the River Guadiana is wonderfully peaceful at most times of the year. In places the road stays quite close to the river, making for a lovely scenic drive. But, of course, you have to get out of the car to admire the scenery properly. You never know quite what you’ll find. Parking alongside the tiny village of Laranjeiras, our first discovery was the ruins of a Roman villa. Not a lot to see, but the remains appear to date back to the 7th century.

Strolling into the village, life seemed to centre around a little riverside cafe, from which you could watch the occasional boat mooring at the jetty. A couple of youngsters indulged in that age old pastime of skimming stones. Entertainment for me presented itself in the form of a boatman, with a delivery of tarpaulin for the little boatyard. His antics, trying to find a convenient space to offload his cargo in the minute space, kept me happy.

The moorings at Laranjeiras

Never content to sit for too long, I had a mooch about while Michael consulted the map. A path seemed to lead up the hillside and run parallel to the river before dipping back down at the next village, Guerreiros do Rio. Gamely, we set off.

But not before I had admired this 'Maypole' in the village

But not before I had admired this sign of celebration in the village

And soon we're out of the village looking down

And then we climbed out of the village, and looked down

There wasn’t much sign of the path and it was a bit of a scramble. Stopping to catch breath, we heard a tinkling sound, and suddenly two dogs burst out of the scrub. They darted to and fro, rustling between them a magnificent herd of goats. Sighting us, the creatures pressed on, with nervous sidewards glances. The goatherd gave us a nod, a third dog rounded up the stragglers, and the pack headed for home. Happy to have found a proper path, we followed them.

Keep moving boys- they’re watching us!

The trail rolled off across the hills, but we were quite happy to take a branch that led back down to the riverside. Enough of adventure!

All was calm, down by the river

It looks dry, doesn’t it? It had been a long, hot Summer and was still very warm in early September. Just around the bend we reached the next village, Guerreiro do Rios. Time for a drink! As usual, I left Michael sitting in the shade, while I went off to explore the back streets.

Colourful fishermen’s huts

Not the friendliest of cats!

But an inviting doorway

And some pretty wall tiles

Traditional homes

And a Buddha in a yard

When I returned, one of those village cats had attached itself to Michael and was greedily begging the ham from his toastie. Good job he didn’t have the tuna kebabs he’d been fancying! Strangely, the cat was not at all interested in my glass of delicious white. I didn’t have time to hang about because I had discovered that the Museu do Rio was open! (the link is in Portuguese but you can translate it if you like)

We had passed the sign before, but never gone into this small museum, tucked away from the road. Here was my opportunity!

The Museum of the River

The outlook from the museum

Boats adorned every available surface

In glass cases and on the walls

Of course, there was one called the Guadiana

There were interactive displays

Telling the history of life on the river

A lot has been achieved in the space available. I chatted to the nice young lady at the till, who sold me a ticket for 1.50 euro. This was also valid for admission to the castle at Alcoutim, a few miles up the road. A bargain, I thought! The museum is open daily except Mondays.

For us it was time to amble back along the riverbank, occasionally stopping to admire passing craft.

Back at our start point

The tiny harbour at Laranjeiras

I hope you enjoyed our little Algarve adventure. It’s quite easy to just walk along the road and back between the two villages, if you don’t want to go following goats. It’s not a busy road. The riverside junction leading south from Alcoutim is the easiest way to find the villages.

Don’t let anybody tell you that the Algarve is just a strip of boring beaches, will you? Not in my experience, anyway.

And now it’s time to turn our attention to other people’s walks. Thank you so much to all my contributors. You take me to places I might never reach on my own. Anyone is welcome to join in, and it’s very straightforward. My Jo’s Monday walk page has all the details. Just click on the logo above. Let’s put the kettle on and settle in for a good read, shall we?

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Benches actually have several uses in Anabel’s world. Highly useful on a walk!

Balloch benches

Fancy taking the train? Let’s go to Montreux with Drake! No regrets, I promise :

Heaven for everyone

I gather there has been lots of rain in Texas, but Amy’s found some sunshine :

Monday Walk : Texas Countryside (Part 2)

A lady I’d never heard of next, but an interesting post from Jackie, in Canada :

Laura Secord

Demonstrating her versatility, Violet Sky finds us some very scenic caves!

Seeing the caves

So many lovely things to discover in Tasmania, thanks to Ruth :

Taroona Coastal Path

I need to pull my socks up! I haven’t even made it to Amsterdam yet, and here’s Rotterdam looking so beautiful!

Rotterdam in a Day (part 1)

We’re joined this week by Fifi and Hop- isn’t that a great name? Please go and say ‘hi’ to Corey!

Walkway over the Hudson : World’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge

Indra at Trav Trails certainly covers some ground. Can you keep up?

Four Cities and an Island

Geoff’s Dog has had a poorly paw, so we might have to slow down a bit on this one :

The Capital Ring- Highgate to Stoke Newington

‘Do you want this walk’, asked Meg? You HAVE to be joking! Wait till you see it!

Eurobodalla beaches : Bingie Beach North

Come and sing some Bruce Springfield with me? I love this song! Thanks, Kaz :

Travel Album : Philadelphia

Nearer home, I don’t think I’ve been to Anglesey! Have you? Looking good!

Flashback Walks : Holyhead Mountain

And it’s simply impossible not to enjoy one of Tish’s posts! Look and learn!

It’s a wonderful world

As Jaspa demonstrates, on his trip to South America :

Cartagena, Columbia : UNESCO World Heritage Site

But you don’t have to go past Worcestershire for beauty- or pretty much anywhere on Jude’s blog!

Garden Portrait : Arley Arboretum

Aren’t they a fantastic selection? Thank you very much everybody! I’m off to the Lake District on Thursday, celebrating another birthday, so hopefully I’ll have an English walk for you next week. Have a great time till then! Monday Escapes is on again this week if you’d like to join in.

Jo’s Monday walk : Thorp Perrow

The magical colours of Autumn

It lasts for such a short time! Already the Virginia Creeper, whose rosy hue adorns my wall in Autumn, is strewn across our drive and whistling off down the road. So I’m glad that I made it to Thorp Perrow Arboretum when I did. 100 acres of woodland are surely enough in which to worship Autumn colour. And you can take your eyes off that tearoom! That’s for much later,

Let’s get delicious with the daisies first!

Over a little stream and the colour is already beckoning

But close at hand there are jewels to distract

But close at hand, there are jewels aplenty

As always, I hand the map to the other half, and set off to follow my nose. Or, in this case, a lovely little stream which wends its way through the woods. Signs promise ‘Henry’s Island’ and ‘Kate’s Island’. Will I be allowed?

A plopping sound stops me suddenly. From overhead something lands in the water, sending concentric rings dancing to shore. High in the canopy, a mischievous squirrel is dispensing acorns for our entertainment.

Sunlight dances in the woods

Beaming from bronzed leaves

And then the lake, in all it’s glory

It’s a ‘hold your breath’ moment

Just the lake, and the leaves

The history of Thorp Perrow can be traced back to the Domesday Book, where it was listed as ‘Torp’ manor house. The trees came much later. Planting began in the 16th and 17th centuries, and in the 1840’s the Milbank Pinetum was planted with seed brought over from America. There are now 5 National Collections of trees (Juglans-Walnuts, Tilia-Limes, Fraxinus-Ash, Cotinus and Laburnum) and 66 Champion Trees (the largest of their kind in Britain).

But it’s not at all a stuffy place! A sense of humour manifests itself in many forms.

See the shark’s fin in the water?

The crocodile, of course

And an unfortunate gardener!

Throughout this month the children have been treated (or tricked!) with a collection of spectres and ghouls lurking in the woods. Eek!!!

Just hanging about

Or sitting patiently on a bench, for Jude

Or sitting patiently on a bench, waiting for Jude

There is also a growing Wildlife Park, where you can ‘meet the meerkat’, watch bizarrely plumed fowl strutting their stuff, and gasp at the exploits of the birds of prey. The flying displays are one of the park’s most popular features, and are well worth seeing. I’ll let you discover them for yourself. For me the park is mostly about the landscape.

Trees and topiary

And gasps of Acer colour

Beautifully weathered statues loiter wistfully amongst the trees. They mingle with newer wood sculptures, showing no apparent resentment.

Walks spiral off in all directions from the mighty Jubilee Oak, and another named for Catherine Parr. You don’t have to follow a specific route but simply wander to wherever your eye finds most pleasing. It doesn’t really matter. It’s all lovely!

A hen stops to drink at the fountain

The handsome new Acorn Sculpture

Banks of hydrangea

A wisp of pine

A busy ‘heron’

Stately bulrushes

And Rowan berries

Despite it being a glorious day, the park is quite peaceful. Strangers nod to each other, wearing beatific smiles in the unaccustomed October warmth. Only when we reach the Autumn bays is there a sense of urgency. Bathed in rosy colour, we gaze upwards.

Autumn in all its splendour

The other half seems to have found something interesting

These beauties! No. 129 in the brochure

I’m more taken with the Sycamore wings

Delicate Cotinus

And the Gingko

I can sense you beginning to tire. There’s only so much beauty the eyes can take in, and we’re not far from the promised tea rooms. If Meg were here she’d be fingering the bark on so many of the trees. But you’ve earned your bowl of soup, and some of that yummy cake. Which one to choose, I wonder? There’s a full menu on the website, all very reasonably priced. (Dare I admit to having the pensioner’s special?)

The Arboretum is just beyond the lovely market town of Bedale, in North Yorkshire, and details of how to get there are also shown on the website.

I’m feeling quite tired myself after all that exercise. I’ll just say my thank you’s and get that kettle on, I think. You’ve certainly brought variety this week. Thank you so much to all of you who keep following me down this path. I really value your company. Anyone wanting to join in will be made very welcome. Details are on my Jo’s Monday walk page. Just click on the logo.

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Scotland has some of the most beautiful gardens, and in wonderful locations too. Thanks, Anabel!

Inverewe and around

And I can’t argue with this description from Violet, either :

The prettiest town

A little fog gives a nice air of mystery, don’t you think?

Monday Walk : Texas Countryside

A comprehensive guide- see the sights with Jackie!

Day 2- Berlin

Richard doesn’t mind being a beach bum. With beaches like this, who would?

Cornwall’s Seven Bays in pictures

A ‘kick of happiness’ is what you’ll get if you join Drake this week!

A lake, peaks and a queen

Ever tried Australian salmon? Ruth explains why you might not have :

Salmon Ponds

Not so taxing as last week’s walk, but still you might prefer just to gaze in admiration :

Rain, Rivers and Waterfalls : The Steall Falls

Next up, a nice relaxing stroll around Central Park (or a ride in a horse drawn carriage if you’re feeling flush)

Travel Album: New York City (2)

Tobias is showing us a very different kind of beauty. Come and see!

A Short Walk in Saint-Saturnin-de-Lucian

I hope you enjoyed the walks this week. I certainly did! Where to take you next week? I haven’t made my mind up yet. I shall just wish you all a Happy Halloween week and hope the weather stays fine. Bye for now!

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?

restlessjo

Roaming, at home and abroad

walking

Jo’s Monday walk : Saltburn in Winter

Jo’s Monday walk : High Force and Gibson’s Cave

Jo’s Monday walk : Newstead Abbey

Jo’s Monday walk : Salt marshes at Fuseta

Jo’s Monday walk : Vaqueiros

Jo’s Monday walk : Aira Force

Jo’s Monday walk : Following mountain goats!

Jo’s Monday walk : Thorp Perrow

Jo’s Monday walk : Fabrica to Cacela Velha

Jo’s Monday walk : Odemira, in the Alentejo

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