9th September 2006 - First walk- Silves Saunter by Rod

Leader: Rod
Present: Paul, Myriam, Lindsey, Janet, Mike, John and two guests of Mike's, Michael and Alison
Pookie and Oscar



First outing of the season, and as the temperature had been above the mid-30's for a week or so, Rod imposed an 0730 start from the Bar Casinhas, which is only a yawn and a stretch from his mansion, but a 45 minute drive from my mid-town apartment! The turn out was better than expected for a predictably hot day, but our ranks were augmented by two of Mike's guests, who were dragged untimely from their beds to join us.
I had chosen this auspicious inaugural walk to introduce the Rohan New Season tropical kit, consisting of a Dallol lightweight shirt, and lightweight trousers with inner thigh zipped breathers, and tick-proof knee vents. The assembled company marvelled, especially Janet, who appeared to be having a hot flush!! or was it the weather. I was so cool, that I almost regretted not having brought my lightweight kagoul (anorak to you).
The walk was a pleasant 13km and 3 hours, which served to limber us up for greater things to come. A slight overcast helped though the sun did come out enough to warm things up towards the homeward stretch As usual we discussed all the proclivities of those who were not there, new wines at Wine Mine, and all the nice places that certain people (Rod - Italy; Lindsey - another part of Italy; Mike - trekking in the rain (UK) then Croatia, Janet - Australia) so it would be a good idea if those that stayed in bed this week made an enormous effort and joined in, otherwise the WW fund will not be enough to pay for Lindsey's next luxury portered hiking trip!