Sunny days, sunny ways.

Friday and Saturday went by in a wave of sunshine and cool breezes. It was an opportunity for me to explore some of the lanes and pathways around Estoi and check out the Pousada grounds. That wonderful combination of ancient palace and modern hotel is under renovation. They have recently repainted the exterior and are now rebuilding the outdoor pool area.

Renovations, destruction and construction are the name of the game next door to the quinta where we are all staying. Five days per week the sound of electric saws, jackhammers etc. fills the air. For Marc and Randy, it is especially awful because their flat shares walls with the property next door.

A new tile roof is currently being installed. They carry the bundles of tiles up a ladder by hand – no hydraulic forklift – and the work continues. Its a three year project according to the permit on the front gate of the property.

So, I wandered the town and took photos over Friday and Saturday:

Flowers everywhere bursting into bloom…

Imagine relaxing on the balcony with your favourite beverage…

A local orchard

The name of the alleyway.

What’s around the corner?

A yellow blossom yet to be identified…

Another angle.

Posted on a house at the corner of our street.

Almond buds.

Aloe vera plants..

A view of the recently painted Pousada.

Looking towards the sea

Through the Pousada gates.

An unused lane leading from the Pousada to the main thorough fare.

Imagine people on horseback or mules pulling carts or horse drawn carriages using this street.

Not sure what this is. Perhaps a member of the wild cucumber family?

Storks protecting their nest.

Another method of delivery.

City of the dead.

More almond blossoms.

A wall with a view.

A quiet corner interrupted by dogs!

Discovered a field filled with Jack in the Pulpit flowers.

Enjoying the winter sunshine.

Estoi church on the square.

A crowd of friends…

having lunch…

on the square in Estoi.

The loquats are coming!

Saturday was very similar to Friday. I intended to take a short hike into the hills behind the Quinta. However, the sound of gun shots tended to deter me. Although not officially a hunting day – that would be Sunday – there are those that hunt outside the law on Saturday, as well.

The front of my apartment.

The common pool area – too cold for swimming !

On the way to the square

Actually, jet lag finally caught up with me on Saturday. By mid-afternoon, all I wanted to do was take an endless nap. Fought off the urge until after sunset and had a really good night’s sleep.

Lunch was a local sausage made with wild game birds. Lovely, light and delicious. Apparently it originates from Jewish cuisine from immigrants that travelled into the region.