Porto

Porto is lovely. The port city is beautifully situated on the 'River of Gold' or, as known in Portugal, Rio Douro. It is a city full of vitality and a rich history. Famous navigators of the 14th century were born here and by the 15th century the city played a leading role in the maritime discoveries of the New World.

We loved our time here. We quickly slipped into the tourist mode and took a river boat cruise on the Douro River. We were able to see the Port wine caves along the embankments and see the renowned hillside settlements which have also been around since the 15th century. Our trip took us to the place where the river meets the sea. To say it was lovely would be an understatement.

The history and architecture is rich and beautiful. We meandered among the cathedrals and museums and then took a city tour. We also went to a couple of the port wine lodges and sampled some wonderful port and learned of it's history. We tried the local specialities, franceshina being of our favorites. It's like a calzoni but made with thick Portuguese bread and their famous sausages. It is smothered with cheese and toasted. A wonderful tomato sauce is poured over it and then served with homemade potato chips and a cold beer. It was so satisfying.

We had so much fun. We stayed up late and woke up even later. We have decided to alter our route for a while and head north along the coastline. The weather looks good for a few days and so we shall walk along the coast. Our traveling family has moved on ahead and we are walking alone again. We are certainly in good company. We are also getting better at the surrender. Letting go of the self imposed expectations and schedules. This really is a daily issue for me and I must work on it constantly.

We arrived in Vila do Conde today after a 19 mile walk along the coast. It was one of our best walks. We think of you in all this beauty. Thankful for you in our lives. You are loved... Buen Camino.