Pomarao

29^th Jan

Overcast and a cool wind so we decided to scoot down to Pomarao where all the ore and sulphide from the Mina De Sao Domingos was taken by rail. It is located on the river and was the main port for transport down the river to the Atlantic.

The roads there were very narrow and passed through very rural village and across vast open moorland – a bit like the Sennybridge ranges in Wales as there was also lots of sheep!

remains of crane on quay

lots of space for vans!

The final descent down to the river was very steep and plopped us right beside the remains of the old quay. Sadly the remaining crane has been left to rot along with the few building remains. There were a few vans parked up, the Isle Of Man registered ex Army lorry  and trailer wins the prize for being the biggest conversion we have ever seen. Complete with rear sun deck.

stealth conversion?

The workers houses were similar to the ones in Mina, all in terraces and many with no windows only a single door. The quay café was open so went in and enjoyed a freshly baked pastal de nata and coffee. The lady spoke some English and told us that she could understand me better as my pronunciation was clearer.  That made Tina laugh.

cottages - no windows on some

The rain stayed away so scooted back in some sunshine and enjoyed the huge landscape before us. After lunch sitting outside in the sun I kitted up and went for a mountain bike ride on the local trails. These criss cross the area and you can go where you fancy. I had a great time crossing streams, jumping over puddles and grinding my way up rocky climbs.  It would have been very easy to get lost, so I about turned and enjoyed the cycle back in the setting sun.

mtb ride vista

 Mina - free parking on far side