TET Portugal 03

As we stepped out of the cafe at Montargil after lunch the heat was oppressive, it enveloped us, bikes and all, like we'd been wrapped in fire blankets. Another 40degree ride beckoned. 

Setting off in the morning at 8:30 we'd made good progress in the cooler morning air. By 10am we were zipping along the tracks unhindered.

Someone went to great lengths to display this rusted tractor, it's bleached and rusted frame displayed atop a stone. A medieval warning of sorts to other tractor travellers? 

Shortly after this water crossing we had our first taste of bad luck, a puncture in my rear wheel caused by a rusty nail. (The tractor clearly was a warning!) 

It took only 30mins to resolve, Jason provided a C02 canister and Barrie, who'd just caught up (as we ride too fast for him) offered a pump. 

Setting off again we passed several small lakes before stumbling across the body of this car. It's journey ended, probably died of thirst, just a few short miles from the waters edge. Sad. 

Barrie had parted company with us by this point, opting to do the longer route around the huge reservoir at Montargil. We zipped along at a steady pace, the heat building. All stopping had to be done under the shade of a tree. 

In almost all photos the land appears bleached and dusty where only the hardiest flora can survive. Above, proof that the land is green despite the heat and apparent lack of rain.  

Sarah showing her train spotting tendancies and opting for a snap at the tracks! 

We stopped for some cold refreshments at a random cafe in a dusty village where a man sat listening to a tape recorder with 1980s headphones. I expected him to play a banjo, but instead he kept straightening the chairs we moved and saying 'hello'. 

It was during this random meeting that Barrie reappeared, like a stranger from the desert.  Totally by chance he rode into the scene having completed 100km or so of solitary sun riding. 

The afternoon heat had made its presence known,  it was with joy that we saw the oasis that is Alamal River Club as we rounded the corner.  

The river club would be our home for the night and we were the only guests. Rolling like 'A Lister s' we enjoyed the pool and freedom and that having your own private hotel brings! 

Fresh from the halls of academia, today we traveled in the company of an Astrophysicist! That's right, Mr Barrie Gardiner Bsc was informed that he'd passed his degree as he relaxed, like a baller, in his private hotel . Congratulations!! 🙌🏽👏 

He decide to celebrate, Jonny Depp style, and bought a Mega Pint of Wine for Sarah! 

Meanwhile Jason tried his hand at gardening... I'm thinking stick to business fella. 

Below, our view at dinner from the only restaurant open. They had to fetch lettuce from the nearest town when we ordered a side salad. 

Today's progress. 100mikes further north.