I have to admit, I really enjoy driving through the mountains. My car probably doesn’t feel the same way, since mountain roads tend to be narrow, full of potholes, and in poor condition. They also come with endless curves, and you can’t drive very fast, but that’s part of the charm. Despite the rough conditions, mountain driving usually doesn’t involve any added danger, since you’re moving slowly and there’s hardly any traffic.
Beyond the peace and quiet, the solitude, and the wonderful sense of isolation, one of the mountain’s greatest appeals is its ability to surprise you. Because the terrain is so uneven, your field of vision is limited, and every curve, every climb, every dip in the road can reveal something completely unexpected. The feeling of anticipation and discovery is constant.
That’s exactly what happened with the landscape in today’s photograph, which lies to the south of the “Valley of Gold” (Valadouro). After crossing the valley, I noticed some distant mountains on the horizon and thought it might be a good idea to get closer. I was simply expecting a nice view, but as I climbed higher, more and more spectacular rock formations began to appear.
I have to admit that the photograph doesn’t do the place justice, I couldn’t quite capture the full beauty of the landscape. The sheer number of rock combinations, shaped by wind, rain, and who knows how many brutal storms over the centuries, creates a kind of hypnotic effect, like a rocky kaleidoscope. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a quiet drive, take in the views… and make sure you’re bundled up in a warm coat!
