Mountainous switchbacks make powerful thighs: VN de Milfontes to Carrapateira

Another perfectly sunny day. I saddled up my pony and glided to a nearby town to check out a stunning view and drink a pair of espressos. It turned out that caffeine and bag of chips became essential fuel for the mountain switchbacks that were to come. At this point in my journey, I had decided that rather than curse the hills, I would take this as an opportunity to compose odes and sonnets to powerful thighs. I loved this regional rendition of carving your name/love into a cactus leaf rather than a tree. I paused halfway up a hill to look at this peaceful little town nestled in the rolling hills. Sticking to my decision to avoid wild camping for the rest of my tour, I kept my eyes peeled for campsites, but had no luck. I ended up finding a charming little bed and breakfast in the tiny town of Carrapateria and decided to luxuriously treat myself to a night INDOORS. It turns out Carrapateria was a charming but crumbling little town. I got to sample some local food, including amazing wine and spectacular olives and a home made orange sherry, which was divine.

Remember, this is all part of my “Pedalling for Mental Health” challenge, where I am hoping to raise money for mental health research. If you are able to support this great charity, please donate here!