The Algarve

Today I'll just share a stream of consciousness, my observations along the way: The cork is harvested from the Cork oak every 9 years, in one large sheet, usually just from the trunk. A number is written on the trunk to signify the last digit of the year it was harvested. Another type of oak, the Olm oak produces large acorns that are fed to the traditional black pigs of Portugal. In the picture, I am hugging an Olm oak, one of the largest in the country In the picture, Mark is eating the black pig, fattened on Olm oak acorns, a specialty of the region which includes a stew of cardamom, garlic and mint. It tastes like the traditional Portuguese sopas, so Mark was in heaven! The countryside is amazingly similar to Yolo county, a Mediterranean climate. This isn't so surprising, since we are on a similar latitude. We were treated to a wine tasting from a local vineyard. The wine industry is struggling, here in Portugal, due to lower consumption of alcohol in general. Many people are also preferring beer to wine.
The cycling has gone well, about half of us on road bikes, (including Mark and me), the other half of the group on e-bikes. Mark has been a rockstar, leading the road bike group to the top each time! I have been within the top three on the road bike crew! The riding has been challenging for me, but I have gained a lot of experience, courage and have learned that this can be a lot of fun!
Our guides have been amazingly supportive, fun, and have had our bikes tuned up and ready to go! Each day we are sent on our way following directions from Ride with GPS. One guide passes us all with the bike trailer to set up snacks and water about halfway. The other guide "sweeps", or follows the group to make sure everyone gets safely to the destination. The 18 of us, have been spread out, cycling at our own paces, throughout the ride.
The accommodations have been beautiful, with delicious food and swimming pools at each location! Speaking of which, now that our ride is finished for the day, I am going to go enjoy a sangria by the pool!Read more