Day 8 Oct 4 - Free Day in Viseu

Today we had a free day in Viseu so we took the opportunity to take a bike ride on the Ecopista do Dao. This bike trip is a 47 km ride from Viseu to Santa Comba Dao winding its way through a number of small towns on the old rail line which has been converted into a bike trail. Most of the original train stations still remain along the trail, although in varying stages of repair.

The first section of the trail between Viseu and the station at Figueiro is quite scenic. However, the large number of 'chicanes' installed to prevent the crazy Portuguese drivers from driving along the trail made it a bit frustrating.

From our stop in Figuiero (the only cafe located directly on the Ecopista - perfect for washroom breaks and espresso) to Farminhao was some of the most scenic part of the ride. With views over fields, vineyards, woods and small villages. As we here in harvest time, the gardens we passed were spilling over with ripe fruit trees (pear, apple), chestnuts falling out of the trees and grapes waiting to be picked.

There was a fairly long climb for a portion of the route but since it's an old railway line – the gradient was fairly steady and gentle. There was even a long tunnel just south of Farminhao – it took a few seconds for our eyes to adjust to the dark! 

Train station at Farminhao

Original Locomotive that resides at the Torredeita station

 Restored building at one of the many stations

River view along the trail

As there are no cafes (after Figueira) located directly along the trail we choose to ride into one of the larger towns halfway through our ride in search of lunch. The first restaurant we discovered was over-flowing with locals and when we entered we immediately became the focus of the entire restaurant. We were so uncomfortable that we left and found another smaller restaurant where the owners made us feel very welcome. Although we can not speak Portuguese and the owners could not speak English, the grandmotherly owner offered to provide us with what she thought we would like...and she did a fantastic job and we were grateful for her kindness.

We continued back on the trail completely full after spending a mere 5.50 Euro on each of our lunches. As the trail is only moderately difficult, we relaxed on the rest of our ride enjoying the view.

One of the many damaged buildings

River at 46km

After 5 hrs of riding and sight-seeing, we ended our trip and dropped off our rented bikes. Filipe picked us up and transported us back to Viseu where we spent the remaining daylight hours exploring the narrow side streets of the historic downtown.

Tile murals are found everywhere!

Square outside our hotel