Volcanic Victuals

Yesterday we went to the west and centre of São Miguel; today we went more to the east. And I continue to be absolutely gobsmacked with this place, think it's the combination of volcanic activity with stunning greenery everywhere, not to mention shining sea around every bend. And steamy ferny jungly lowlands, then drive a bit higher, and you could be in Switzerland, cardigan needed. And banks and banks of flowers absolutely everywhere.

We saw the covered pots (in extra) where our lunch was being cooked, on the edge of Furnas lake (bottom left area of my extra), and then walked around the lake on a beautiful path through woods and grassy banks covered in a pink lily type of flower. Ermelinda had a tumble, so she and I gave up before the end and waited for the men to collect us in the car, to drive to the village and a swish hotel where we ate the stew that had been steaming in the sulfuric boiling water for eight hours (also in Mike's extra), plus some superb starters and desserts, and a local wine - excellent, even though Padre Luís can't admit that any wine not from the Alentejo can be good.

And then a wander in the 200 year old Terra Nostra gardens, which are definitely the most incredible gardens I have ever seen, see the link if you're interested, and just one photo, of the Amazonian Vitória Régia water lilies. There are are also rusty water pools you can soak in; I soaked my sore feet.

Anyway, another great day.

Gratefuls:
- the privilege of seeing such unique beauty
- Cecílio's miles and miles of sometimes quite hairy driving
- rainbows appearing on and off in the distance as rain passed over the island