Lisbon to Porto
Mealhada
March 25, 2026
Today's hike was close to 25 kms. I don't know why I thought it was going to be an easy day. It certainly didn't turn out that way.
When we left our hotel in Coimbra we had a huge down hill back to the river. Going down th 130 of what was probably 20% down hill on really rough cobble stones was not a lot easier than going up the night before, other than we were on fresh legs. Once we got down the hill to the river the course followed the river for several kms. There is a beautiful pedestrian stroll along the river and in the early morning there were a lot of commuters headed in to the city. The trail followed though farm land until we reached the 8 km mark when the route turned into the hills. This was the big climb of the day and we had about 45 kms of around 10% to reach the summit. The last 1.5 kms was down a freeway which had a bike lane but was still kind of scary. I had my hat tied down tight as I didn't want it snatched off may head by a semi.
After we got off the freeway we took a path through a eucalyptus grove. This trail was the first off pavement we had seen all day and there was about 6 kms of the grove. It was great to be off the highway and in the trees. The trees provided shade which was really welcome as it was probaly close to 23 C and the heat was just bouncing off the asphalt
From the the grove it was back on to some quiet back roads where there weren't many cars but it was hot on the pavement.
I was certainly glad to see the Inter-Marche where the taxis were to meet us and whisk us to our hotel. The hotel is a great country estate but it is a long way out in the country and with no food services. Good thing we stopped at the store and picked up some supplies.
I know that I am not the only one who is tired tonight. I think Calgary Ken and Sally are all in as well. Ken T was the power house today out front leading the way all day.
Great weather and beautiful country side certainly made for a wonderful day.
Terry
3 comments:
Doesn't sound like a fun day. Have a great evening and hope tomorrow is better for all of you.
It's looking like it is turning out to be quite a hike Terry. I bet the eucalyptus groves are real nice after walking beside highways in the blazing sun. Hang on to your neat hat and hang in there - one step in front of the other.... :)
It's still snowing and cold in our little northern mining town. Carry on.
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