Monday 26 – Around Caldas de Monchique. From 10.30am. A moderately easy 2 hour circular walk along the river valley and through the countryside, with great views to the coast. Meet in the small car park in the centre of Caldas de Monchique just down from the main road.
Wednesday 28 – In the Cape St. Vincent Natural Park. From 10.30am. A superb 3 hour circular walk through this totally unspoilt area of coastline, not a development in site! Meet outside the church in Vila do Bispo. From Lagos take the road towards Sagres and follow the road for about 20km, take the first exit for Vila do Bispo and you will see the church ahead of you.
December 31 – To Paderne Castle. From 10.30am. A great 2 hour easy circular walk that will end the old year on a high note. Meet at the car park at the Fonte in Paderne. As you enter Paderne from Purgatório take the road to the right signed ‘Castelo’ and follow it for about 2km, when the road bends sharply to the left the car park and Fonte are on the right.
January 2 – The Two Rivers. From 10.30am. Start the new year on the right foot with this old favourite. A walk along the banks of the Aráde and Odelouca rivers, a 2 hour circular walk. Meet at Mira Rio café on Silves-Monchique road. Enter Silves over the bridge and turn left, follow the road for 5km and the café is on the left (take care there is a sharp bend here).
All are very welcome, please just come along but make sure you leave plenty of time to arrive at the meeting point as the walks start promptly. There is a small charge which includes a donation to charity, (2 hour walks ¤4 per person and 3 hour walks ¤6 per person). Call Julie Statham on 965 753 033 or 282 697 298
