I took a couple of weeks off during Christmas and New Year, spending some time with the family in the Alentejo coast in southwest Portugal. The weather was cold but often sunny, so we walked a couple of the Vicentina Route trails in the region. I particularly enjoy the circular trail (Route 24) in the Vila do Bispo area; you can find more details in the following web page:
Percursos Circulares – Rota Vicentina
Starting in Vila do Bispo, the trail crosses gentle and rolling green hills that form the coastal plateau, which is always buffeted by strong winds. After a few km, the road starts descending towards the beaches, which are worth spending some time visiting. Names like Barriga, Cordoama and Castelejo are famous for their wild beauty, and quite popular with surfers. There are a couple of steeper climbs, because the coastal cliffs are vertical and tall; the upside is that you can catch your breath admiring the wonderful views. In the winter, with clear visibility, you will be able to spot Carrapateira and Arrifana in the far distance.
All the photos were taken using my by now favourite travel combination, the Fujifilm X-E5 camera and Voigtlander 27mm f/2 Fuji X mount lens. I converted some of the photos to black and white in Lightroom, to convey a different mood. I hope you enjoy the photos and Happy New Year!
