Market Monday

Every Monday, folks flock into town for the Feira Semanal de Espinho. By the size of the crowds, it is quite popular.

Part farmers’ market, part flea market, it is said that whatever you’re looking for, it can be found here.

From carrots to cutlery, garments to guinea pigs, heirloom tomatoes to honey, mattresses to muslin, sausages to silkies, watches to Wellies… there wasn’t much I didn’t spot.

After the market we headed to the beach to relax a bit but found another people explosion.

At the end of the strip, we spotted a relatively quiet beach bar and settled in with Somersbys to pass the time until my last night’s group dinner. While I’m not thrilled to be moving on in the morning, I’m not going to miss wrestling with a wetsuit.

Little Venice

Welcome to Aveiro, the Little Venice of Portugal!

Named for the network of canals and moliceiros, colorful boats originally used for seaweed collection, that glide along the waterways.

Each moliceiro is painted with a scene of its former use. The one I rode in was previously used for transporting salt.

While salt collection has declined, there are still a few active salinas, salt ponds, in use today.

The grilled cod I had for lunch had just the right amount of salt and was delicious. Also enjoyable was the ovos moles, a local egg-based pastry delicacy, which I tried in original form and as ice cream.

Walking around town was delightful with good music, street art,

and whimsical notes.

Even the train station is charming, leading you to consider returning for at least another day trip.

Estátuas Vivas

The 27th International Festival of Living Statues is taking place in Espinho this weekend. These hippies were one of my favorites.

I didn’t know who these men were representing but they “performed” well.

The ladies also put on a good show but there was no way I was sitting in the empty chair of the Statue of Peace. I did appreciate the hanbok.

Arte Xávega

Today was a rest day so instead of surfing, I did a little exploring. I came across this boat, Rita e Carolina, which is said to be the last one that keeps the art of dragging, a traditional artisanal fishing technique, alive in Espinho.

The Vamos Andando could also do the job but is now displayed in front of the Espinho Town Hall instead.

Moving Onward

Today I arrived in Espinho, Portugal.

To do some… surfing! Being in Finisterre and Muxía inspired me to have more beach time.

So, I found a surf camp in this lovely beach town, where I expect I will soon be eating salt cod.

I’m excited about this next adventure!