From Marmelete to Monchique, a stretch of 14,7 km under strong and inclement sun, going up the slope of the mountain, passing through Fóia. And so passed the fourth day of the 7th Via Algarviana crossing, which ended with a comforting dinner at the «Charrete», in Monchique.
Tuesday, April 8th, departure at 9:15 am.
Today it was “only” 14,7 km. Only!…It seemed little, compared to the usual 30 km of the previous days. Only…it started with a Homeric ascent that quickly ended any ideas of ease.
And then, as it was a few kilometers, we made a detour to a viewpoint, and then another detour to go to Fóia (902 meters above sea level).
But it was worth it! Not only for the technical break (at this point in the championship, I don't think it's worth explaining what this is anymore), but also for the stunning view, covering practically the entire Algarve. And today, with good weather, we were seeing the entire Algarve and a substantial part of the Costa Vicentina, as the route passed on the northern slope of the mountain range.
According to some opinions, this section has the best views of the entire crossing.
Today was proof that the Via Algarviana is for people from 7 to 77 years old. The youngest to do the course was exactly 7 years old. The least young…I don't think there is.
Meanwhile, the group is changing. Some have left, others have arrived that go all the way. There were people from Monchique who also did the section and reinforced multiculturalism. Now we also have, in addition to the Spanish, from the Algarve and the Portuguese, a German journalist who changed the Camino de Santiago for the Via Algarviana.
The day ended with a wonderful dinner at the «Charrete» restaurant in Monchique, considered by other veteran hikers as one of the gastronomic highlights of the crossing. There are even two who, although tomorrow they will no longer accompany us, because they have to return to Lisbon, stay for breakfast this Wednesday, also served by the staff of «Charrete» and who say it is a delight!
Tonight we slept on the floor – as always – in the Monchique Municipal Pavilion. See you tomorrow!
Veja more pictures here.
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