castle bagging in portugal

Linhares Castle

Castle of Penela

Castle Vila Nova de Ourem

Ourem

Castle of Braganca

After a few days in Lisbon I head north and in search of castles.  After a rough afternoon getting through the traffic and staying off the auto piste roads I finaly ride into the country and everything slowed down a bit. In Portugal there is always something to see along the roadside, some historical ruins, farmers in their fields, or  castles on the hilltops.  Cycling through this country was already going to be tough enough, for those of you not familiar with the geography here, its quite mountainous.  Just from Lisbon to where i entered Spain i logged in over 9000 meters on the bike. Thats a lot for such a small distance.  But it was worth the effort and i came away with a good experience. 

    The feel in Portugal is very relaxed and tranquil.  I would pedal up to a town and it would almost seem like it was abandoned. That was before more observation.  Eventually i would notice a lady tending here garden or a kid walking down the road, but the point is that you will usually see someone before you hear them.  The locals like their peace and quiet and i was loving it as well. 

     My plan has been to camp as much as possible out of the larger cities and this has worked out.  Iv managed to camp my way though Portugal since Lisbon.  I enjoy the fresh air and freedom that camping offers and its much cheaper.   I spend all my money on good coffee and beer along with local food at the pastalarias. Thats been another highlight cycling here.  I kept is simple with a toasta mista, or bifana sandwich, a grilled ham and cheese or chicken sandwich, usually washed down with a superbock beer.  The portugese also enjoy pasteries and you can find row after row of all varieties wherever you go.  its good energy for pedaling i tell myself as i pop two or three.

   It was sad to leave Portugal behind but i had to press on.  This morning i crused into Spain and now im in San Vitero.   I will head up to Leon more or less and then east twards France.  Until next time...