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| Derelict boat with flowers |
The park is definitely a tribute to the failing economy of
Portugal. Although it was probably once a beautiful spot, it has fallen into
serious disrepair.
The amenities are
unkempt, and any of the attractions that require any maintenance are not open.
The working tidal mill is not working, but was still interesting to see; the
villa is not available for viewing; the guest house is closed, shuttered, and
falling down; the Portuguese Water Dogs are there, but locked up in a compound behind
huge fences; trails are now marked with spray painted arrows on once-beautiful
stone posts; washrooms lack toilet seats, toilet paper, running water, soap,
and towels. It’s a very sad situation to see.
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| Roman Aqueduct pump |
We saw beautiful wildflowers along the walk, however, and
the trees …left to grow wild… are still lovely and different. The Roman ruins
remain ruins, and lack of signage just makes it fun to imagine the usages for
some! We found a beautiful fresh-water pond with a bird blind where you could
sit and watch ducks, turtles, herons and storks bathing and catching a little
sun.
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| Roof of the Tidal Mill |
The guest house provided a sunny roof to climb up on and
have lunch. Our host, a small gecko, didn’t seem to find our presence too
intrusive, even though he declined to share in our repast. The sky was a
brilliant blue and the temperature just perfect.
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