Our day set aside for exploring the Serra da Estrela disappointed as heavy rain set in after breakfast. Not a big problem though as we took the opportunity to tidy and clean the van. We learned, too, that the awning catches a lot of water and that the recommendation to have one side lower than the other was wise advice. Quite a cascade!
We filled the time with more housekeeping duties quite productively and when the rain eased off, we optimistically set out to walk to Folgosinho, the second highest village in Portugal. The weather worsened again before we had gone very far so we beat a retreat. We had a drink with Gerard then had another try later on but again the rain got the better of us even though this time we did find Maria's Taverna - which was shut! Back again to the van but there were informal drinks laid on by the owners which was quite fun even though the other clients were all Dutch too. Fortunately, their English is exemplary.
Our culinary skills were extended even further with some 'albondigas' meat balls in a rich tomato and piri-piri sauce which had had time to steep itself while the rain played havoc with our plans. The meal proved to be extremely tasty followed by more of the local yellow plums. As we cleaned up, there was a bellow from two of the Dutch couples who were finishing their meal to join them for a whisky - provided we brought the whisky! None to hand but we did have port so we joined this cheery crowd (we were wearing black tie which they didn't even mention or notice) and generally had a light hearted, jolly time until we knew it was time to beat a retreat. Good fun all round.
Picture: Medusa carved above fireplace at Cegonhas
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