Exploring Montemor-o-Novo: Unveiling the Riches of Évora's Charming Village

Exploring Portugal: A Journey of History, Natural Beauty, and Culinary Delights

Portugal is a country that attracts visitors for a variety of reasons. Some are enticed by the historic cobblestone towns and medieval castles, while others are drawn to the stunning coastline and natural beauty. But for our protagonist, it was the sardines that sparked the desire to explore this captivating destination.

Accompanied by two Portuguese-speaking friends, the journey began in Lisbon, the country's vibrant capital city. Guided by Natalie and Bobby, who were familiar with the city, they embarked on a tour to soak up the culture, history, and of course, the local food and drink.

The adventure truly began when they set off on their bikes from the town of Faro on the south coast of Portugal. Their first day took them along the picturesque shore to the town of Tavira, passing by salt marshes and wetlands. Along the way, they were treated to the sight of flamingos wading in the water.

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Continuing their bike ride, they connected with EuroVelo 1, the Atlantic coast route, and made their way through Tavira. The next day, they cycled north through the hills of Algarve, the most sparsely populated region in Portugal. The towns they passed were serene, offering a true sense of tranquility.

The highlight of their journey was reaching Alcoutim, a town across the river from the Spanish town of Sanlúcar. Alcoutim is known for its prominent castle, and the nearby town of Sanlúcar also boasted its own castle. Three castles in one day made for an unforgettable experience.

The group reluctantly left Alcoutim and headed northwest, crossing Algarve's border with Alentejo, the region known as Portugal's breadbasket. They rode alongside farms and ranches, getting a taste of the agricultural heritage of the area. The towns of Mértola, Beja, and Évora offered insights into the history of the region, with impressive castles and charming medieval old towns.

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One day was dedicated to watching a Portuguese Cup game, providing an opportunity to immerse themselves in the local sports culture. Just outside Évora, they explored a prehistoric Stone Circle site, estimated to be 2,000 years older than Stonehenge.

The terrain throughout the journey was relatively gentle, with no brutal climbs. A typical day consisted of riding around 35 miles with 2,000 feet of elevation gain, leaving plenty of time for sightseeing and indulging in long lunches.

And speaking of indulgence, the food surpassed all expectations. The group savored tender and delicious octopus, along with various other fresh and well-prepared dishes. One particular delicacy was the traditional Portuguese custard pastry, enjoyed almost every morning. And when hunger struck, a taste of the famous bifanos, a tiny pork sandwich on a roll with mustard, provided a satisfying and affordable option.

Although the search for fresh sardines proved elusive, a visit to a canned fish place proved to be a delightful alternative. It showcased the culinary diversity of the country.

Throughout the journey, the weather posed some challenges, from extreme heat to rainy days. However, equipped with waterproof gear, they persevered and continued their exploration undeterred.

As the trip came to an end, they spent their last few days immersing themselves in the vibrant energy of Lisbon, strolling through the city's streets, and savoring the local cuisine. While bidding farewell to Portugal, our protagonist couldn't help but acknowledge the likelihood of returning someday.

Portugal had captivated their heart and taste buds, leaving an indelible mark on their travel memories.

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