Day 3 – and the rain came down

The bravest of us set out early to check on the conditions – see above! 3 more set out of the full day, which was our highest climb, clambering up and down quite rocky paths which had become waterfalls. I, of course, being mindful of my recent history of trips to Emergency Departments, chose not to do it. It was a good excuse anyway – let’s be honest.

However I started with my next best thing which was extremely beautiful until the piped music started outside – I’m sure it was to clear the area of vagrants! Then I had a very interesting trip to Aldi – if you’ve not been to one, you’ve not missed anything! Then some of us walked for a while and had morning tea, took some photos – I did a Reiki and massage gun session and so it went.

It’s been an interesting time so far. One member – the only guy, an Aussie – had to isolate for the first day as he had a cough. There are very strong protocols around not spreading bugs. He was ok – allergy – then Jessie, who’s running the whole trip – felt unwell and has been isolated ever since. So sad for her – others have picked up the music part – and she’s only emerged once since, highly masked up. the group is great – 2 kiwis, 1 Scot, the rest Aussies. Most of them know each other thru Jessie/choirs so form a strong base for all the singing. They are largely around my age, one younger, the oldest 81. As always, as we progress, all with our own stories, there is always someone to walk at our side. They are lovely women the energy when we sing is fabulous.

We are presently staying in a massive estate, with the Count still living here – and his dog which looks like a horse. The Count seems quite cool – he hung out the window earlier, chatting to 2 of us, trying to get Leo (the dog) to show us around. The house and estate are massive – I’ve taken photos and videos, through the rain, which sadly fail to reflect the beauty and grandeur of the place, as well as the fact that it’s a relatively self sufficient entity within itself.

The whole area is incredibly beautiful, every turn, every corner, every vista makes me reach for my camera. I love the history and it’s everywhere you look. I can see the early Roman influence everywhere, and am loving trying to translate all the Portuguese with my Latin and French knowledge.The locals are very understanding of our bastardised accent and use of their language and it’s been fun trying to make myself understood. Luckily, and surprisingly, gluten intolerance is common here so that’s been a lot easier than previous European holidays. Time for dinner – and I’ll try to download some more photos to send.

Cross fingers for posting this.