Sagres

People here say that Sagres has always been a mystical place; the ancient Greeks  called it the Land of Serpents.  Took a boat ride out to the Western Atlantic shore.  This huge rock called the Giant, is the last thing the sailors see as they enter the Atlantic.  You can see his face looking to the sky.

The cliff above the giant has been a lighthouse for hundreds of years, guiding boats into the Mediterranean.  Today’s St. Vincent Cape lighthouse hurls a beam of 37 miles into the Atlantic, making it the second most powerful in Europe.

A ride along the cliffs shows many caves and hideouts for pirates and foes.  There were multiple naval battles between the 14th and 19th centuries in this area.  Everybody wanted control of the Mediterranean.

The Portuguese coast is a surfing destination in Europe with massive waves in the winter just North of here.  Sagres today is a small town with surfers, fishermen and some tourists.  It has about 6 surf schools.

The sandy beaches are in sheltered coves protected from winds which can blow pretty hard.

I hung out at the Laundry Lounge which is a combination coffee shop, bar, laundry and yoga studio.  I did all of them!

                                                

                                                                                   

Coming home

Thanks everyone for reading the blog, sending your comments and emails and especially your encouragement during the walk.  I had a great time.  Next up —- a fantastic summer back in Ocean City.

See you soon,

Anne