Taming the Landscape: Portugal’s Enduring Effort

From the house-sit near Batalha, we traveled back up north past Coimbra to Travanca do Mondego once again. However, this time not to house-sit, but just a visit. Because, our next sit was just across the valley from Kathryn & Roman’s, and because we had two days spare, they invited us to stay and have a catch-up!

it was great to see the dogs too, and it didn’t take long for Cassie, Phoenix & Clyo to recognise us!

Of course, Kathryn had been busy baking and Roman was quite the chef, cooking some great meals!

It really was just a ten minute drive around the valley to arrive at our next adventure. We met our hosts Deb and Axel, their beautiful home and of course our next pet to look after, Rosie!

It’s always nice to spend a day before the owners leave. We had quite a lot in common with Axel coming from Canada and their love of Portugal and for exploration and adventure! We received a really good handover and they were so generous and thoughtful. It was great to be in the guesthouse and spending the night with Rosie getting to know her while giving them time to finish their packing for their amazing trip they had planned. The guesthouse was lovely and had everything we needed.

So, we settled in and begun our exploration of this area and our next adventure. It really is a fascinating area of Portugal which has been shaped over the years.

Throughout history, Portugal has been marked by a relentless pursuit to tame and shape its diverse landscapes. From ancient civilizations harnessing the power of rivers for agriculture to modern urban developments encroaching upon natural habitats, the story of Portugal is intertwined with its dynamic relationship with the land.

Centuries ago, the Romans constructed intricate aqueducts to channel water across vast distances, enabling the cultivation of crops in arid regions. Their ingenuity laid the foundation for Portugal’s agricultural prowess, shaping the landscape to meet human needs. Whenever we visit Roman sites, we always take a moment to try and understand the surrounding area and ask how they shaped the landscape beyond the site.

In more recent times, rapid industrialization and urbanization have brought both prosperity and challenges. Cities have expanded, swallowing up agricultural land and natural habitats, while infrastructural projects have altered the course of rivers and reshaped coastlines.

Despite these transformations, Portugal remains committed to preserving its natural heritage. Efforts to protect endangered species, restore degraded ecosystems, and promote sustainable development reflect a growing awareness of the importance of living in harmony with the land.

Today, as Portugal grapples with the impacts of climate change and globalization, the imperative to balance development with environmental conservation has never been greater. The country’s ongoing endeavor to tame the landscape stands as a testament to the resilience of its people and their deep connection to the land they call home.

And for this sit, our temporary home was along a quiet valley along the reservoir on the river Mondego. The river, in its pristine state above the hydroelectric dam, exudes an aura of natural serenity and untamed beauty. Flowing gracefully through the landscape, its crystal-clear waters meander leisurely, reflecting the azure skies above and the lush greenery along its banks.

The river’s gentle currents whisper tales of ancient times, carrying with them the echoes of civilizations past. Fish dart beneath the surface, their shimmering forms adding to the river’s vibrant tapestry of life. Along its shores, dense forests teem with biodiversity, providing a sanctuary for countless plant and animal species.

Birdsong fills the air as avian inhabitants flit among the branches, their melodies blending harmoniously with the soothing sound of water. The occasional splash of a leaping fish punctuates the tranquility, a testament to the river’s vitality and abundance.

Above the hydroelectric dam, which has had an impact in shaping this particular part of Portugal, the Mondego flows freely, unfettered by human intervention. Its pristine waters offer a glimpse into the untamed majesty of nature, a reminder of the intrinsic value of wild spaces in an increasingly developed world. Here, amid the tranquil beauty of the river Mondego, one can truly feel a connection to the timeless rhythms of the natural world. We did, however, see rowing boats and canoes. A silent indicator that the location is ideal for those pursuing pastimes on still waters.

Above the river, the constant hum of chain saws and farm machinery reverberates through the countryside, a symphony of human effort interwoven with the rhythms of nature. From dawn till dusk, the landscape echoes with the mechanical drone of chainsaws slicing through timber and the rhythmic churn of hand tools and farm machinery tilling the soil.

Amidst the rustle of leaves and the chirping of birds, the relentless buzz of activity signifies an ongoing battle between man and nature, as trees are felled and fields are tended. Each rev of the engine is a testament to the tireless work of farmers and foresters, who shape the land according to their needs and aspirations.

The sound is both familiar and comforting, a reminder of the timeless cycle of growth and harvest that sustains communities and livelihoods. Yet, it also carries a sense of urgency, a reminder that time is ever-pressing and the land requires constant care and attention.

Even in moments of quietude, the memory of the chainsaws’ roar lingers, a reminder of the ceaseless effort required to tame the wild and harness its bounty. And so, the symphony continues, an eternal chorus of progress and preservation echoing across the Portuguese countryside.

So, we continue our house-sitting adventures and meet up with some friends along the way.
Wayne is heading back south for a trip while Annette remains Rosie’s companion. What will he find when he calls to see the progress?

Stay tuned to find out!