Page 17 - Demo

Tuesday 19th September - Tavira - Vila Real De Santo Antonio - Castro Marim - Alcoutim - Praia do Barril - TaviraSunny and hot. Woke to a beautiful sunrise Drove to Vila Real De Santo Antonio on the Spanish border. Stopped in the centre of town, overlooking the marina and Spain. Walked down the cobbled peaceful streets laid out in a grid pattern. Watched the local lads play table football with great gusto and merriment. Drove north up the border a short way to Castro Marim, an old well preserved castle. Wandered around inside, looking and pretending that we had stepped back in time. Very atmospheric (and very hot). Found a very impressive playground for Teia. The Portuguese build excellent free playgrounds generally, but this one was superb, with lots of water features to play in. Drove further north along the border to Alcoutim, a pretty little village on the river looking over (virtually a stones throw) to Spain, and a similar village on the other side. Walked the town in the heat and stopped for a refreshing cold drink in the tiny park overlooking the river. Drove back south and then west to Praia do Barril, a beach on a sand spit near Tavira. To reach the spit, you had to walk across a pontoon walking bridge and catch a tiny clunky old train to the little collection of fishing huts on the beachfront (now converted to a posada, with restaurant, etc). Went for a refreshing swim in the clear but cool water, and collected shells for Teia. Had some ice creams and coffees before catching the train back to the car at dusk. By that time the tide was out and all the little inlets between the spit and mainland were alive with crabs. Went for another swim at the hotel, did some internet surfing and went down the hill to the church square for a traditional dinner.