We left today with a little trepidation…fearing a third triple ton day! We were both still knackered after our last two days! And if Google was averagely inaccurate…it could well be!
As it turned out…it came close….(& well over 6,000 metres of climbing in three days!) but the gradients actually made the day easier than we had feared!
We crossed back over the bridge upon leaving Pinhao…
…..and then enjoyed a full 35km for flat cycling! Now usually…flat can become a bit boring…but after our 4,500m of climbing over the last two days…flat was just lovely!! Following the river….
….the train line opposite.
Passed a hydro dam in the way…and watched a tour boat rise up in an incredibly deep lock!
Then across the river (see John riding dead centre once more!)….
….ready for a stiff climb up the north bank!
Into the clouds once more…..!!
And down into the lovely town of Amarante…
Then up and down on disappointingly busy roads…into the city of Guimaraes.
The birthplace of Portugal…they call it. Because Portugal’s first king was born here!!
The whole of the old town is a Unesco World Heritage site.
Very picturesque!
But our tired legs did not take us very far…before beers and food called!!
And then somehow John stole another Euchre win…so 4-4! From 4-1…Alas!
