Shining radio in a better together Scotland

I am glad I can wake up listening to BBC Radio 4 and I can go to sleep listening to BBC Radio 3.

Off-road biking in the brown cliffs of Cambelas

Not much more to say about the great off-road tracks around Cambelas village in Portugal. These are just by the sea, on the top of the cliffs. Rita, Angela and I went on a Saturday morning ride but I think it was too hard core for them as it was too close of the abyss. But for those who like radical sports there has to be some adrenaline involved, not only cycling in the middle of the vineyards of Dois Portos and Ribaldeira, right? For me, the biggest challenge was getting rid of a dozen dogs that crossed our way and were loudly barking at us a little bit more inland. CHIUUUUUUUUU!!!!!

Photos: Rita Veloso

Blue sky at Serra do Socorro

Here is something interesting to do in a Sunday morning in Torres Vedras: going up Serra do Socorro, a hill of about 300 m which was strategic for the defence of Lisbon against Napoleon troops. There is even a telegraph built by the Viscount of Wellington at the top of the hill.The way up is of a strong ascent but the views are definetly worthwile. The small chapel rebuilt in the XVIII century receives people who pray and ask for help to Our Lady of Help (Nossa Senhora do Socorro). In a room inside the chapel, wedding dresses, clothes, photos and other belongings from people who were supposedly saved by the Our Lady, are displayed.  The hill has interesting circuits for the practice of off-road bike and the coffee/restaurant at the top is an innovation. Activity recommended by Colours of Scotland "Trip Advisor" :-) 

White doves in Mass in Rio (da Foz)

I am back to grey Scottish weather to remember the Portuguese sunshine. And here's the story:

We could have been at one of the several music festivals that happen in Portugal during the summer, as for example Rock in Rio. WRONG...We were attending a mass by a superstar priest at the forth of Sizandro river (rio Sizandro), near my village. It was a 3hour mass with songs, dances, white doves, tears...After playing organ for 17 years in a church choire I have had enough of masses, but this time the curiosity was stronger than me. Conclusion: a bless by this "new school" priest certainly won't harm.

Photo: Rita Veloso