In this unseasonally warm, sunny weather at this time of year for the Algarve coast we set off early from the Cristal Hotel, Carvoeiro to walk the cliffs to the on on, which was the Alfanzina Lighthouse just a couple of miles east.  Half a dozen hashers from the Algarve H3 swelled the numbers, even though it was the afternoon of a work day, as did a couple of virgins from Buckinghamshire.

Madge launched himself into detailed instructions on various aspects of the trail, which were promptly forgotten in our haste to get out on it. So on on, and before very long we had even forgotten our enthusiasm, as the heat of the day reflected off the tarmac brought the sweat to the surface.  After the first half a mile a challenging check took us off the roads and into the scratchy scrub of a very peaceful, fragrant valley. Further hot, dusty tracks and paths were just starting to kill us off when after crossing a road we entered a much appreciated belt of pine forest and popped out on the coast.

A tough climb over the cliffs brought us via a lovely little beach, where unfortunately Blade Runner took a dive onto the road and had to sit down and contemplate her bruised knees and hands while awaiting motorised rescue by the hares. On on up the cliffs again to the beer stop which was never been more welcome. The final scramble up the cliff path and past another great beach was the final in-trail back to the lighthouse and beers in the circle.

Naturally the virgins had their introductory drinks from the GM. Bubbles then had a good many charges to bring before the happy hash staggered a further half mile to Helder`s restaurant for wine, great food and more beer.

Thank you Madge and Syd for a great hash in a terrific location.