AWW Wednesday 30th March 2022

Around Cova da Muda    

After a long spell of rainy weather a brave seven determined hikers gathered at Fonte Ferrea prepared for the worst. Fortunately the gods smiled on us and the weather was surprisingly nice if a bit windy at times.

The hardy seven were provided with coffee and home made cakes by Sue before lining up for the usual mug shot:

From left: Alan (back from wintering in the Canaries), Frank, David, Karen, Sue and Moira with Rafa ready for the off.

We set off not up the usual hill as everyone expected but a nice gentle stroll along the valley to the first of very many water crossings. Sue had already decided wet feet was the order of the day:

We then started a series of short hills and more water crossings where Karen demonstrated her balletic training while Frank addressed a wardrobe malfunction:

The real business began then on a looonnnggg slow climb to eventually arrive at a miradouro: 

The views were lovely but David was less than impressed with the seemingly never ending hill:

 Hands on hips, no prize for guessing what he was thinking !

Having reached the viewpoint, time for a few photos and a welcome lunch:

Sue, the eternal organised teacher is already taking drink orders!

After lunch on and on over the rise to the watchtower:

We then started a slow descent back to the Fonte mostly along a single file trail ideal for adventurous mountain bikers. Along the way encountering many many water crossings and puddles:

After one last stream crossing we were back at the Fonte with a nice surprise to see the Cafe open, the sun shining and the lovely sound of water gurgling:

Time for a well deserved drink and chat.

Total distance just short of 15km but with a respectable 349m of ascent.

Well done to everyone and thanks to Sue for the coffee and cakes and to Alan for some great photos...

Martin

Thursday 31st