I knew that today would be a hard day, and I wasn’t disappointed.
Because of limited options for accommodation, and my determination not to carry a tent for ten days and use it just for one, today ended up being a very long day. Some days the miles seem to fly by, while on other days they drag. Today, particularly later in the day, was a day when walking was a real effort.
It also marked my transition from the mountains to the more touristy lowlands. Marmelete, which I reached midmorning, still felt like it had changed little in years.
The locals even seemed a bit bemused at my appearance.
By the end of the afternoon, the mountains where I had started my day had almost disappeared into the distance.
A long day, and a tough one, but ultimately satisfying.
Day 8 Route: Corgo do Vale to Barao de Sao Joao via Marmelete and Bensafrim. Terrain: forest paths and minor roads. Weather: a mix of sun and cloud. Daily distance: 40.1 km/24.9 miles. Cumulative distance: 192.4 km/119.3 miles. Accommodation: Casa de Joao, Barao de Sao Joao
Come Wind, Come Weather 