Pechão Part II

You might recall that a couple of weeks ago Joanne and I wandered a lovely unknown trail near the village of Pechão. Because we had a “date” for lunch, we had to cut the walk short just at the point where we spotted a sign that indicated we should “turn right and continue for 4.6 km”. We determined that we would return at some point, pick up the trail from this junction and see where it would take us. Today was that day!

The road(s) were rough gravel, which at times is a challenge to walk on as the rocks quickly roll from under your feet and loosing balance is a genuine possibility. We always use a walking stick to help with balance as well as to use in the event we encounter feral dogs……so far this year I have had to wield it only once!

We passed acres of orange groves, fruit laden trees bending and the ground around the trees peppered with mounds of decaying oranges. Such a waste. We also skirted a lengthy fenced avocado farm, you’d swear it was Fort Knox with the security and barded wired fence. The locals are not a all happy with the presence, and growth, of these enterprises as they require much water, which at times of the year is a challenge here.

It was a bit of a challenge to get a hold on where this particular path was actually leading us and we both agreed that the signage was not necessarily accurate. One moment we were heading directly south towards the sea, which we could see in the distance, then suddenly a sharp left up through what looked like a private field. We came on two elderly women hoeing a large field of kale…….friendly waves and the ever constant call of Bom Dia . They were chatting and laughing despite the obvious back breaking work.

Off in the distance, for quite some time, we could see an old house, reminiscent of another old house we have admired for years in Olhão. I initially thought (hoped) that that would be our final destination as I wanted to see it up close but sadly, it was privado and there was a large dog making it clear that I was not welcomed to explore!

At one point the path abruptly ended and we found ourselves on the highway, a minor highway that we use frequently, where we had to walk for the last 500 meters. Thankfully by now it was after 12h30 and because of the lunch time, the traffic was minimal. We did pass this place that is obviously “for sale”. Go ahead and try to count the number of different styles of tile they have used. I love it!!

All in all, an enjoyable and energetic 10,2 km, nothing to sneeze about!!! I’m not certain it’s one I’ll do again but I’ve learned to never say never.

We had made a date to meet Marc for lunch in the square at 13h00 and on arriving we found that the prato do dia was “finished” for the day. Elsa, our favourite waitress, gave us a wink and a nod, told us to “hold on” then went to speak with Amilcar, the owner/cook. Turns out he was making Bacalhau à Brás for the staff lunch and she managed to finagle three portions for us! YUM YUM

A feast at any time but today especially so after our lengthy walk. Life as we know it continues to be exceptional grand.

Saúde