A couple of days later we decided to walk down to the seafront at Sao Vicente, a downhill walk made difficult in parts by the steepness of the road and the knowledge that later we will complete the walk again in reverse, a much tougher task.
The road winds steeply downwards at first and we stop often to gaze at the magnificent views; the Sao Vicente valley is truly the most spectacular place I have ever seen with its lush greenery, towering mountains and tantalising view of the sea, which always seems just out of reach. The mists only add to its beauty giving a magical quality to every vista. A more level road takes us past agricultural land, mainly set to vine but also sugar cane, kiwi, banana and passion fruit as well as other more common fruit and vegetables. Madeirans are a self-sufficient people and gardens are well stocked with a whole variety of edible plants, some of which I have never come across before.
Before the descent into the village, the ‘Capelinha de Nossa Senhora de Fatima’, a small rural Chapel tower, stands high on a rocky outcrop as if protecting its parish. From here the road winds gradually down to sea level, past palhieros and larger houses and on into the village where the now white buildings are tightly packed around the church and square, and cafes offer coffee and pastries to passing locals and visitors alike.
The tranquility of the village is immediately forgotten, however, when we are confronted with the sight and sound of the crashing waves at the sea front, a mesmerising sensory experience and one to be often repeated it is so addictive; we have whiled away many an hour at the Quebremar wondering at the majesty of nature and I don't doubt that there will be many hours more.
The ocean, majestic.
White horses racing to shore.
Thundering onto rocks before retreating to plan their next assault,
Relentless in their attack.
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