This morning we had a leisurely breakfast in the hotel and
then assembled bikes. However once bikes
were assembled both Liam and I were keen to jump on the bikes and go for a
ride. After all we are right here in the
Duoro Valley and right in front of us is the 2015’s World’s Best Road. However don’t take my word for this. Check out the web site which details this
section of road: 2015 Worlds Best Road (press control and then click the mouse to
open the link)
Portugal’s Estrada National 222 which links Pinhao where we
are staying with Peso da Regua is totally stunning. It a beautiful section of ultra-smooth
pavement with very few vehicles and the magnificent scenery of the Douro River
and valley. So we left the hotel and
headed out along N222. WOW is the only
word for it. From there we turned off
the main road and headed up to Tabuaco.
This secondary road climbed sharply away from the Douro River. It was a 10 km climb which averaged around 6
%. The heat of the day was well on us
now so by time I got to Tabuaco I was soaked in perspiration. A coke and a big drink from the town square
fountain set me up for the final assault on the top of the hill. A few more kilometers and we were over the top
and on the way back down to the Douro Valley.
The ride down was lots easier and I was able to appreciate
how beautiful it was. The road was lined
with vine yards which are just loaded with grapes. There were a lot of trucks stacked high with
crates filled to over flowing with grapes.
For supper Liam had made reservations in this gourmet restaurant
in another village so we set off for it. The menu was like nothing I had ever
seen. Roast goat kid, wild boar, and
rabbit sausage, just to name a few of the unusual items. I had to try the wild boar stew. The portion was huge. Giant chunks of meat in
this delicious gravy with roast potatoes.
The wild boar had quite a strong flavour but it was terrific.
A day which stories will be told; riding the world’s best road in the Douro
Valley, and feasting on wild boar. It
just doesn’t get any better.
Terry
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Beautiful pictures of Northern Portugal. I would agree Portugal has some of the best biking roads anywhere. They have spent a fortune on modern infrastructure, which is one reason they are in debt. We are enjoying a contrasting Ireland, which has been wet and cold, and has some of the most challenging roads anywhere. Your meal of wild game is amazing��
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