Algarve Wednesday Walkers Annual Sparrowfart Hike and Breakfast

10th July 2024

At the crack of dawn—well, okay, 7am, which is practically the middle of the night for some—we gathered at Sue’s charming countryside abode in Gorjoes for the infamous Sparrowfart Hike. The early birds included our host Sue, the ever-enthusiastic Karen and Steve, the dynamic Ros and Peter, with our fearless leader Martin arriving fashionably late.

With the aroma of freshly brewed coffee perking us up, we set off on our 9km escapade. The morning was nothing short of perfect, the Algarvian sun casting its golden glow over the landscape. We trotted along ancient donkey trails, our spirits as high as the hills we aimed to conquer. After a minor detour (or as we like to call it, an off-piste adventure), we crossed the road and commenced the climb to the windmills.

The ascent was a bit of a leg-burner, but the panoramic views at the top were worth every step. From Santa Barbara to the distant silhouettes of Faro and Olhao, and even the shimmering sea, it was a sight to behold. Naturally, this called for a water break and a mini photo shoot—because if there’s no photographic evidence, did the hike even happen?

Rehydrated and rejuvenated, we began our descent. With Karen and Steve’s local expertise guiding us, we opted for a new trail through ancient paths. True to form, we managed to miss a turn, leading to an impromptu wall-climbing session. Nothing bonds a group like scaling old walls together!

Back at Sue’s, we were greeted by Jan, who, despite her recent hip operation, was a whirlwind in the kitchen. Sue and Jan was whipping up a storm of traditional Scottish breakfast delights. Picture this: potato cakes golden and crispy, Laird’s eggs nestling with smoked salmon, heaps of mouth-watering bacon, and homemade beans that could make any tinned variety weep with jealousy. And let's not forget the haggis, which was met with both trepidation and enthusiasm.

This feast was washed down with fresh orange juice and lovely coffee, the perfect post-hike fuel. For those of us with a second stomach reserved for desserts, the breakfast finale was a heavenly spread of scones slathered with tangy lemon curd.

A huge thanks to Sue and Jan for their hospitality and culinary wizardry, and to all our fellow walkers for making it a memorable end-of-season hike. Until next year’s Sparrowfart adventure, may your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, and more importantly, lead you to a table full of breakfast goodies!

Martin