@September 1, 2021 11:57 AM (GMT+1)
Evora to Estremoz.
In a classic, rustic, and rugged snack bar/ restaurant/1 star hotel. I’m the only one ordering coffee at 11:30 am. Beer and wine for everyone else. The Portuguese accent here is different. Everyone is talking a mile a minute and I have no idea when one word ends and another begins. The operator of this establishment is on point. Bounding around, talking, setting up, and getting things done.
Today is the first day of rain. And it is pouring outside. I woke up this morning to a fog covered Evora. On the road, the fog set in and became quite dense as I left town. 43 kms is the approximate length of the journey today. A quick ride, and quasi dull until the last few kilometres. The fog lifting was quite beautiful, and there was a significant change in landscape again. I am still in the Alentejo region, however the clay, and straw covered grounds have started to become green. Rolling through side roads into Estremoz beautiful vineyards became my companions on the ride.
Estremoz itself is a puzzling town. Coming up to the town, the vineyards line the street, and the castle is visible atop the hill. Once entering the ‘front gates’ the town seems deserted and old, very unlike Portel and even Evora. Climbing closer to the center of town, the hustle and bustle begins, and the streets are lined with cafe’s, restaurants, and beautiful old buildings. Apparently Estremoz is one of the top marble production towns in the world, and everything here is made of marble. I hope to get out after the rain and see for myself.
This town gives the feeling that nothing changes once it is built. Thankfully the hotel let me check in and leave my bike and bags. The hotel appears unchanged from the day it was built. All furniture in this bar as well appears to be original.
A Barbour store down the street lets me know this is not just a working town. An unexpected locale, and I’m glad to have the day here.