Advertisement
Published: October 22nd 2017
Edit Blog Post
Lidia and Jorge
Welcome to the barbecue! Geo: 40.824, -7.69385
On Thursday morning we were on the road northwards shortly after 8.30am - earlier than planned. Due to the steep driveway out of the Camping Pelinos 77, we had taken Remy up on his offer of a tow out but he had overlooked that he had a hospital appointment later in the day, and was knocking on the door at 7.30am to apologise, so it would need to be sooner rather than later. We had time enough for a cuppa and bowl of cereal before disconnecting and packing away - no hot shower that morning.
Our early start meant that we were pulling alongside reception at our next campsite, Quinta Chave Grande, to the north of Satao at lunchtime. The site came highly recommended by British neighbours, Nick and Caroline, on the only Portuguese stop during our 'Grand Tour' two years ago, but at the time the seasons and weather changed so gave it a miss with a mental note to include it at sometime. What a gem it is too.
The location is very rural, set in a wooded valley, with informal pitching on terraces so you definitely don't feel cramped. The peace and tranquility is only shattered by the
chimes from a local church on the hour and half-hour, birdsong and people chatting.
Although Dutch-owned, the site is managed by a lovely couple - Lidia and Jorge - who supplied us with a welcome drink at the bar and a selection of helpful leaflets about the site facilities, places to visit and a programme of onsite activities. We spotted that that evening was the barbecue so quickly signed up for that which turned out to be a memorable occasion.
From 6.30pm, guests were congregating on the open air terrace which was set out with long tables ready for Lidia and Jorge's welcome in several languages given the assembled diners. We were amongst fellow Brits, French, German and a sizeable Dutch contingent. A number of appetisers were placed on the table whilst drinks were served, followed by a selection of four meats from the barbecue with salad and lots of fries, with dessert as an additional option. There was much talking and laughing throughout but come 10pm it was decidedly chilly and dark so we said our farewells and goodnight to all after a great time.
As forecast, yesterday morning started overcast and cool but come midday blue sky and sunshine returned. The
change in the climate now we are further north and in a hilly region is noticeable but the temperatures more manageable, so much so that David put the wheels on his bike and explored some of the pretty countryside round and about.
A number of traders call onsite which is welcome given the remoteness, in particular the two bakery vans. This morning I stepped out to flag one down and he pulled up immediately outside our caravan and opened the doors. I was welcomed with a smile, greeting and a handshake, passed comment on the beautiful Portuguese weather, before buying a long white loaf (no resemblance to the French baguette), he popped in an additional two large rolls. And the 'damage'? Just €1, but the moment was priceless and something which you never experience when your holiday is hotel-based - the joys of caravanning. He carries a few other lines such as milk, eggs and cheese so I shall stock up before we leave.
As indicated on the information sheet, we drove out to the Saturday morning market at Lamas, a small town but not as we know it in the UK. The stalls included shoes, clothing, hardware, and all sorts of
foods, but we bought just fruit and veg for the next few days as we have another camp supper tomorrow evening.
Advertisement
Tot: 0.239s; Tpl: 0.013s; cc: 11; qc: 44; dbt: 0.0345s; 1; m:domysql w:travelblog (10.17.0.13); sld: 1;
; mem: 1.1mb
Fran & Chris
non-member comment
Hi Lynne and Dave, we have been following your travels with interest. We look forward to reading about the next phase of your journey.