The rain didn’t let up all morning during our eight kilometre walk from Chafé to Viana do Castelo this morning, so our phones stayed mostly tucked away.

We wish we could have taken photos of the fishermen in their long, narrow boats with their very long rods with nets on the end as we crossed the Ponte Eiffel, but we were getting wet from the rain and from the heavy traffic splashing by. It was fantastic to check in early at the AP Dona Aninhas Hotel in Viana do Castelo. The receptionist mentioned the pool, but we are totally happy with the luxury of a beautiful walk-in rain shower instead.

The rain gave way to sunshine soon after we got settled, and we ventured out for an excellent lunch of salmon with plenty of vegetables. We then wandered into one of the city’s ornate Baroque churches, admiring its details, and then checking out some of the fascinating streets and alleyways. The low doorways spoke to a time when people must have been shorter. One shop we passed caught our attention—an old-fashioned hardware store that seemed to sell just about everything imaginable. From the ceiling hung an impressive collection of cookie cutters in every imaginable shape. 

The tiny, narrow bakery attracted us like a magnet! It was clearly a favourite among the locals, who lined the walls, chatting and enjoying their coffee and treats. It seemed like a hidden gem. Now we’re just waiting to get hungry again so we can best savour our treats.