Woke up in the beautiful city of Porto. Due to some digestive issues from last night and this morning. I didn’t make the tour of the city. Larry went, so more on that later…..
Met with others who did not do the morning tour around 10:30, and got info to go to Baiga to meet the tour group. Made our way to the metro, managed to get a card and hopped in the line that took us to the other side of the river. On the way we passed over the famous metal bridge, with an excellent view of both sides of the river.
Got off and proceeded to find where to get tickets to take the cable ride over that side of the river. Lovely views of the buildings, river and boats, and of course the bridges, as well as Porto and the other side of the river, Baiga.
Got off and did some off our favorite shopping, “the tents “ aka local market. After a few purchases, found a local port tasting, before making our way back to the rest of the group who was doing a tour of the Calem port winery.
Got there in time to jump into the tour, where we learned all about different ports, how they are made, and how and when they are drunk.
After a tasting, grabbed a lunch before heading to our afternoon excursion to several medieval areas. Our first stop was the town of Guimaraes, where we walked around a huge castle. This town is known as the birth of Portugal, where a son took over and somehow the country of Portugal was formed .
Next we proceeded to the beautiful Bom Jesus. Took a tram up the hill to a magnificent church with beautiful grounds surrounding it. Inside the church was adorned with the usual beautiful artwork, but its uniqueness lies with the magnificent full sized statues of the crucifixion that made up the main altar. Breathtaking!
But that was not all! After leaving the church we descended a series of steps, known as the holy staircase,with a beautiful fountain and statues at every landing. With the beautiful view, lovely nature, and the artwork, it is truly a special place.
Our last spot was the town of Braga. Had some time for shopping in the old town,before making our way to a sweet old restaurant for dinner. This family run place was charming with good food.
Back to the hotel for a drink on our beautiful rooftop bar, and off to bed. Tomorrow heading for Lisbon with a stop in Fatima.