Fonte de Benemola, 14the October 2020

 Fonte de Benemola, 14th October. The Rule of Four

After basking in the glory of having led a walk without error the other week, I should have been prepared for a slap down, and boy did I get it. We had a good walk, but it was peppered with issues, for which I have apologised to my three companions. Anyway, for what it is worth, here is the record of our ´interesting´ morning.

From the overflow of Linda and Russell´s walk, just three folk signed up for my alternative, so myself, Miram, Ken and Alan met at the Fonte de Benemola car park on a chilly morning, having decided against a coffee. Bica and Jasper were there too, whether they liked it or not. 

Alan was behand the camera at the start.

We decided to walk on the north side of the stream to the Fonte, past the old cesteiro´s house, where some activity was noted at the building above the track. Crossing the stream just below the fonte, a welcome sight was the rope now stretched across by the stepping stones. While Jasper crossed through the water (still running, as always), Bica used the stones with great agility.

Jasper wanted to inspect the renovations chez the cesteiro.

Not quite Harrison Ford, but it will do!

The first mistake came as we were walking the track just after the fonte. Remembering the footpath that cuts off the corner going up the plateau, passing some caves on the way, I suggested we take it. Either I missed a turn on this, or I had started up too early, but we found ourselves climbing much more steeply, with  a bit of rock climbing thrown in, before we eventually reached level ground. Repairs to Miriam´s legs were required before we could proceed, but then followed a period of relative normality as we walked along to Corcitos and down the hill beyond.

Not quite Chris Bonnington either, but a bit too much

And - look down...

From here I needed my Google pics, but the problem was linking these with where we had got to on the ground, so a study of Miriam´s GPS was required. Location established, we proceeded over the Cerro da Corte, with some splendid views and lovely countryside. Across the M510, we hit tarmac, and scarcely left it again – result of Error No.2. Luckily, the scenery remained attractive, but the walk was shortened, and we approached Querenca from the opposite direction to the one intended.

Consulting the oracle

Berries on a creeper attached to a holly bush. Identification?

Rocha da Pena and Salir from Cerro da Corte

After climbing the hill to the village, we enjoyed half an hour in the sun – the day had warmed considerably – before returning to the cars on the back lane. Thanks to Miriam For the refreshments, and Alan for the photos. Stats irrelevant due to errors. One of these days, I shall learn not to do anything off the cuff.

Could have done with one with a saddle.

Do dogs count? If so, we´re illegal.

Bubble gum (sorry Bubbledom), here we come!