Good journey, Lisbon Awaits
On Monday morning, we rode from our hotel to the Evora train station to catch an early train to Lisbon. We arrived about 11:00 a.m. and rode the bike trail along the Tejo from the Oriente station which was the site of the 98 Expo. Now, it has a large upscale shopping center, an aquarium, some hotels, and apartment buildings.
Bike path has separated lane with smooth paving
It was a trail we had ridden before so we were familiar with its quirks. We had a nice ride along the Tejo and reached the bottom of the Alfamo district trying to remember how we could ride or push our bikes up the hill to our accommodations. Not an easy task as the sidewalk and roads are cobblestone, narrow, often one way, and a steep grade.
Bike trail markers in Lisbon
We spent the day wandering the area, having lunch, and getting some groceries for dinner. I think we’re tired of Portuguese cuisine and what we have experienced as a lack of vegetables. David packed the Bromptons using cardboard, bubblewrap, and straps to prevent damage when we check them as luggage.
Cardboard, bubblewrap, foam insulation to prevent damage when checked
Today, we visited the Miradouro Da Senhora Do Monte, walked through the Baixa, had an afternoon refreshment, and visited the Se or Lisbon Cathedral. It was one of the few buildings to survive the 1755 earthquake on Nov 1st. Unfortunately, those who were inside, rushed out toward the river and many were drowned in the resulting tsunami. The area was cleared of debris and according to the Marquis of Pombal’s plan, it was laid in a grid pattern which is what tourists see today.
View from the Miradouro Da Senhora Do Monte
Carved wood storefront
As we reflect on our trip, we enjoyed the wonderful Portuguese wines (especially from the Douro valley), the warm and sunny weather, learning about and tasting port wine, and the castles along the Spanish border. The Portuguese people are warm, friendly and helpful. We wished we could have biked more than we did but biking infrastructure is in its infancy here. We didn’t feel comfortable riding roads with little or no shoulder where traffic is whizzing by at 60 or so mph. Moreover, many streets in the cities are cobblestone which makes for a jarring ride.
We searched for good cuisine but perhaps our expectations were too high. There were a few memorable meals but we can’t say everything was fabulous. One thing we can recommend if you visit Portugal is the vinho da casa; it’s generally good and always inexpensive!
A white wine made from the aragonez grape, better known as tempranillo. Winery used only the pulp, not the red skins.
Going With the Flow 