Sunday August 22nd, 2021 - A Mixed Bag

For our last day in Mosteiros, we decided to drive around the north end of the island to see a couple of waterfalls. But before we left, I finally captured the image of those dang rocks in the morning sun that finally pleased me. 

Guess Where! LOL!

I also popped my nose into the local church.

Our Lady of Conception Church

I thought it very elaborate for a community of little more than 1,000 people and I could find no historic information about it. Of course, I want to guess that even if the building is not that old, people have been here since 1480, so I guess they've been collecting art work and iconography for a while!

Bread Delivery

I was also quite entertained to find that bread had been delivered - and all it took was to have a little bolt under the mail box to stick it on! Perfect to wake up to on a Sunday morning.

Whistle While You Work!

The other delight was walking past this man and hearing him whistling away while he painted this little pole in the street. Who knows why he was doing that early on a Sunday morning - it is unlikely it was his job. I really enjoyed hearing the pleasure his task gave him. The previous night our host, Marcos, had shared that people in this town all know each other and when they need something they just call a friend. I want to believe that man just saw something that needed to be done and took care of it himself. Who knows?

Salto do Cabrito

The first stop on our itinerary was a waterfall - Salto do Cabrito. It involved about a half mile walk down a very steep hill, but our bodies might finally be adjusting to these challenges. 

Wishing it were an 'umbrella' plant!

A heavy shower upon arrival cleared out the crowd momentarily, but led Robyn to take refuge in a tree. I had the umbrella to protect my camera.

Now we go up! Salto do Cabrito

As always, the site offered a walk, so we found ourselves climbing up out of the valley - at least there were stairs most of the way.

Water Works - Salto do Cabrito

We were rewarded with a couple of charming buildings that appeared to be connected to water supply.

Our next stop was to be another popular waterfall with a hot springs where we might soak off some of our aches. It is called Caldeira Velhas, but upon arrival were were disappointed to see that without a reservation there would be a wait of at least an hour! We decided not!

Areal de Santa Barbara in Ribera Grande

So we went to the beach instead! As you see, the sand was not quite as black as the Mosteiros beach, the water was refreshing and it was wonderful to stop and relax for a moment.

Life Guards on Duty

There were life guards on duty - I had read online that every Portuguese beach has lifeguards - don't know if it's true! Of course there were signs about rip currents, but it seemed pretty calm today.

Board walk at Areal de Santa Barbara in Ribera Grande

There was quite a nice outdoor boardwalk where people were enjoying food and drink from local vendors. It seemed  an attractive way to hang out here.

On the way home, we drove into Mosteiros from the north - and guess what? There were my rocks again, perfectly presented! Also guess what? I didn't photograph them again! Defeat was complete, but I relished in the rainbow that landed directly in our back yard. Better than any old rocks, I'd say!