Porto to Vila do Conde (30km)

After a bit of a lie in this morning we finally got going about 9am and went to visit Se Cathedral in Porto. Lovely looking building distinct with its use of the blue and white Azulejo tiles. I thought it looked really well with the stonework.

We then decided to get an uber to the coastline to start the walk. It’s a 6km walk out of the city and the traffic within was crazy busy and very noisy so neither of us wanted to endure an hour of that. From Foz do Douro we walked on a good mix of cobbled pavement and creaky boardwalk stopping off at the odd cafe for some food and a drink or two. The weather was perfect. Not too hot but plenty of suncream had to be applied.

With the waves crashing off the rocks and the strong smell of seaweed in the air, we made our way to Vila do Conde passing numerous cafe/restaurants that all seemed to look the same. Square shaped buildings with large South-facing windows and a dozen or so tables out side with a large burgundy ‘Superbock’ umbrella on each. With the never ending boardwalk, deja vu happened again and again.

We finally got to the albergue (Cachinnans) at 7:30pm tired and with aching feet. Thankfully no blisters but byjaysus I’ll be sore tomorrow. Hobbled out for a pizza and a pint and now lying in my bed trying to stay awake to write this blog at 10:30pm.

We’re going to start earlier tomorrow and trek the 22km to Esposende. Might actually walk in the sea for part of it and keep the feet cool.

Wile sorry I have nothing more exciting today but it’s hard work being a bluffer! Oops I meant blogger. Adueus!