Day 3: Barcelos to Balugaes 10.7 miles
The Pope is still in Fatima, and we heard his mass through speakers on top of a barn and on a few TVs in cafes.
The day was wetter, but we had ponchos, and the periodic periods of downpours allowed justification for cafe stops. In general another beautiful, scenic day in rural Portugal. We left about 8 AM this morning.
Interesting plants-some sort of cactus plant
These stone crosses are found at the center of many of the small villages or hamlets.
These cobblestone roads are what we often are walking on.
But then we are directed off into forested paths that are quiet and allow reflection.
These flowers are everywhere. I thought they might be lupines, but I'm not sure and can't find them when I looked up Portuguese flowers. Possibly listed as Heather?
Off we go on a dirt road off the tarmac-lovely!
Although in gardens and not wild, Birds of Paradise are in many yards-year around.
17th C Our Lady of Portela with pilgrim motifs on the wayside cross.
Many of these lovely old fountains with spring water are available, but we were told it is best not to drink the water.
Approaching Balugaes
12C Ponte das Tabuas (Bridge of Boards) across the River Neiva.
Down Dog stretch for tired hamstrings
Another lovely wildflower
Welcoming blue gates to Quinta da Cancela, where we are staying. Built in 18C,past family vineyard and cattle farm.
To our room
Allen relaxing outside our room (and waiting for our luggage to change out of wet clothes and boots)
Welcome to our room for the night. Dinner, bed, and breakfast at 7:30.
The day was wetter, but we had ponchos, and the periodic periods of downpours allowed justification for cafe stops. In general another beautiful, scenic day in rural Portugal. We left about 8 AM this morning.
The cockerel is prevalent in Barcelos. There is a well-known story about the rooster surrounding the Camino that is heard in several areas. Supposedly a roasted cock rose from the table of the judge who wrongly condemned a pilgrim to hang. The pilgrim stated that he was innocent, and if he was wrongly condemned then a dead cock would rise from the judge's table in proof of his righteousness. When the boy was hung and the roasted cock stood up from the judge's plate. The judge hurried from his table to find the pilgrim alive, miraculous intervention of St. James and the Barcelos cockerel.
Interesting plants-some sort of cactus plant
Arouquesa is a cattle breed from Portugal-Looked this up! Aren't they beautiful!
These stone crosses are found at the center of many of the small villages or hamlets.
These cobblestone roads are what we often are walking on.
But then we are directed off into forested paths that are quiet and allow reflection.
After Arantes, we passed St. Sebastian chapel.
Off we go on a dirt road off the tarmac-lovely!
Although in gardens and not wild, Birds of Paradise are in many yards-year around.
17th C Our Lady of Portela with pilgrim motifs on the wayside cross.
Many of these lovely old fountains with spring water are available, but we were told it is best not to drink the water.
Approaching Balugaes
12C Ponte das Tabuas (Bridge of Boards) across the River Neiva.
Down Dog stretch for tired hamstrings
Another lovely wildflower
Welcoming blue gates to Quinta da Cancela, where we are staying. Built in 18C,past family vineyard and cattle farm.
To our room
Allen relaxing outside our room (and waiting for our luggage to change out of wet clothes and boots)
Welcome to our room for the night. Dinner, bed, and breakfast at 7:30.
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