Espinho and Santa Maria Vila de Feria

We woke earlier today, had breakfast and set off for the markets at Espinho. On parking the car we were immediately greeted by Romanian gypsies. Ed gave them some money (they willdamage your carif you dont give them something) and morecame out of the woodwork all wanting money. 

We continued on to the market it has live animals, fruit, vegetables, fish, bread,clothing etc.... 

We bought some items for our picnic. We looked at some goods but the price went up when they looked at Mr Armani - Ed. I bought glasses for five euros in Madrid and they wanted twenty five euros at this market. 

After the market we headed for the beach and a walk along the main esplanade.

We stopped for a coffee and some ice cream. 

We checked out the shops and headed for the bank. They have some nice old buildings and a well resourced local library. 

We walk back to the car and decide to go to the local castle for our picnic.

The Castle of Santa Maria da Feira is a Medieval castle that has been involved in battles involving Christians and Arabs. The building was referred too in literature from the 11th century. The town was given its name due to hosting the most important fairs in Portugal. 

The castle has passed through many hands - Counts and Generals. When the Counts of Feira became extinct the castle was abandoned and later devastated by a fire. In the early twentieth century restoration began on the castle. It has been open to the public since 1950. 

We had our picnic in a little area at the foot of the castle. 

Fresh bread, sausage, proscuito, cheese, olives, beer, juice and wine. Cherries and melon for dessert. Yum!

We decide to stop for a coffee and another ice cream at Furodouro. A local beachside town. 

On the way home we saw the cyclists again. We decided to investigate. 

An international cycling group tour in a different country every year. The cyclists have driven to this area and are spending a week doing day trips. We saw some of them at Furodouro this afternoon. 

Kristy thought this is a good compromise you can explore an area by car whilst Paul rides off in a group. 

The cyclists are staying in the camping area in Torreira, Murtosa and in local hotels. 

Adeus!