Five Feet, Nine Inches Above Ground

New Year’s Eve day was a mix of highs and lows – literally. As Marc was feeling under the weather, Randy decided to take me for a tour of Mount San Miguel. Its the highest point in the area with communication towers at the top and a wonderful view of the coastline. The road, however, is two narrow lanes with steep slopes and unprotected sharp curves. Randy assured me that all was well but it wasn’t until we pulled into a pass-by and I got out and had a look over the edge that I began to feel less alarmed.

The view from San Miguel

Terraced land at the top of the mountain.

Looking toward Estoi and Faro

Our villa is down there somewhere.

From the mountain we descended to the coastline and a tour of a nature preserve. We had originally planned to attend the gypsy markets as they usually happen on Sunday. None of the markets were in evidence so we spent a couple of hours walking the through the nature preserve.

Pathway into the Ria Formosa Nature Park

Jetty into the sea

Interior of a former tidal mill.

A mill powered by the tides – no longer functional.

White flamingos

Portuguese purple gallinule, symbol of Rio Formosa Wildlife Refuge

All the walking produced an appetite for lunch at Anna’s, pork cheeks and beer before heading back to the villa.

Since none of us were feeling particularly healthy, New Year’s Eve was a quiet affair except for the fireworks displays put on by the local towns at midnight. We had a ringside view from the villa balcony, but no photos. Happy New Year, everyone, and all the best for 2018.