We left the mountains and headed south to visit some well known sights just outside Braga. Firstly it was Santuário de Sameiro, a monument built in 1837 but altered by during Salazar’s regime. Then Bom Jesus de Monte, an ornamental stairway of 573 steps (which we climbed) leading past the stations of the cross to an impressive church all built ion the 18th century. And finally Citânia de Briteiros, a celtic hill settlement excavated by archaeologists since the late 19th century with an amazing array of perimeter walls, streets and the remains of circular dwellings. We then moved on to a site on the coast just outside Porto. ... read more

One of the reasons we chose the Morello was being a panel van conversion, we felt we could take it practically everywhere we could take a car. Today we put this to the test and it coped admirably. We started our drive by exploring the Parque Natural de Monteshino one of the remotest areas of Portugal with cobble street villages set in rolling hills. After driving west and lunch at one of the provincial towns, Chaves, we entered the Parque Nacional Da Peneda-Geres which is an altogether more daunting place with steep sided granite mountains through which wander incredible narrow roads with many hairpin bends. The most impressive was from Caldos do Gerés to Campo de Gerés where we are spending the night. ... read more

Our campsite is situated about 2 miles from the centre of Burgos, but there is a cycle track along the River Arlanzon, so we had an easy ride into the city and were able to park our bikes right in the centre. The highlight of Burgos is its magnificent 12th century cathedral, one of the most impressive we have ever seen. It is constructed of incredibly intricate stonework and includes several impressive stained glass windows. As well as the main nave it also has many beautiful side chapels some of which are quite large. El Cid, who was born in Burgos, is buried here. If you are ever in northern Spain you must make sure you visit this wonderful work of art. The rest of the day was spent wandering around the city and enjoying ... read more

Fist internet access so far, but cannot publish photos and full entry. We are now at St-Jean-Pied-de-Port in the French Pyrenees. Wall to wall sunshine so far. First night at a pleasant village in Normandy, then on to St Severin in Charente to stay at L'Etang, Gary and Linda's beautiful retreat. So far everything working fine on the van, which is much admired. Today, we cross the mountains into Spain.... read more

In very warm sunny weather we had a relaxing day visiting St Saverin and enjoying the views and solitude of l’Etang, the Carey’s house including a beautiful sunset watched while we ate supper on the patio. ... read more