Casa Calado - Trips

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

2011-12-09T02:24:00.000-08:00

It is amazing how kids love Dinosaurs (ok, I sound my mother about this) and that is why this weekend we went to see a so call "biggest Europe" exhibit about Dinosaurs.

In the Dinosaur Exhibit with my son and my Australian Shepherd !

It was nice, specially because it was a good excuse to go out in an cloudy holiday ... but I can say 10 things I would like to see better in this exhibit.

Any way, we saw the exhibit, play with our dog (yes there were nice green gardens to play with a ball) and went to Belem to eat some Pasteis de Belém.

So a nice day !

Other trips and travel:

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog Trekking to a Museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

A trip to Palmela

2011-11-08T04:16:00.000-08:00

On this weekend, taking advantage, of the bad weather break, little blue sky and wormer weather, we went to take another trip in our country.

Since my son is learning the Portuguese history in school, were the Setúbal district represented an important part, I decided to take him to see in live one of the castles that had an important role in our history.

So, we went to visit the Castle of Palmela in the small village of Palmela that is located in the coasts of the Serra da Arrábida and from above Lisbon.

I have to admit that the will wasn’t huge, since the weekend had a bad start, but me and my son needed the break, and there is nothing like taking our four leg friends for a trip to lift the spirits and of course in the end we were very satisfied and happy with our decision to go ahead with our plans and go out.

Our 4 leg companions were two Australian Shepherd, that, like always, love the chance to be the envy of friends.

Palmela is a picturesque town with cobblestone streets that really takes us back to the time that what was so common to see on our lands and easily forgotten in the big cities.

The castle is very well preserved and with a lot of signs explaining what we were seeing, and although we were forced to go on Sunday instead of Saturday how I had planned, we didn’t lost anything, since everything was accessible and open to visitors, including (to my great surprise) the tourist office located within the walls of the Castle.

Even our canine companions had a chance to run in the castle gardens and had a stress relieve.

We have some mandatory points when we go to visit a new place, one is the local museum, other is the local church (since in many places is the most ancient building) and the local cuisine.

In addition to wine and muscatel, I was unaware of the sweets of Palmela and was the office of tourism that pointed out a local pastry that was focused on the traditional sweets

On this pastry we taste three different queijadas de Palmela, a regional brad, and of course, the cheese of Azeitão, that my son just love. Also we bought a small dry sweet to give to our four leg companions.

In the end we visit the Palmela church which is the first we've seen almost totally covered with tiles, which gives it an unusual clarity and lightness.

Palmela is for certain one more of our Portugal sites that will stay in our hearts and memories ;)

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog Trekking to a Museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

A trip to Aveiro

2011-10-03T06:59:00.000-07:00

Aveiro is one of those Portuguese cities you must visit ! Known for its Moliceiro, confectionery and characteristic architecture, leaves an imprint in our memories and hearts.
I remember having visited this city with my parents and perhaps because of the mark that left on my soul, I have tried to show it to other people that are close to me.
So, I organized a special trip with my son and I sincerely hope, like with me, I accomplish my purpose and left a mark he will remember and share in the future.

On our trip we made several stops along the way because I am always delighted with the landscape that unfolds in front of us, when we go to the north of Portugal and is so different from South of our country. It is worth stopping, enjoying nature and walk to stretch your legs simply enjoying ;)

When we arrived in Aveiro we immediately encounter the Parque Infante D. Pedro, a densely wooded area, with varied fauna and flora, and even a lake of reasonable dimensions, where a couple kindly gave some of his bread to Gabriel, and he enjoyed feeding ducks and fish. Inside the gazebo stands wrought iron of the early century, the Museum of Hunting and Fishing and a beautiful tile panel.
My four-legged friends loved this stop, where they had the first olfactory experience of the city of Aveiro.

The Museum of Aveiro city, established in the former Convent of Jesus, women of the Dominican Order, was another point that we decided to visit. Here we found a vast collection of Baroque religious art, and we can visit and therefore get to know part of the convent and the nuns daily life. The Church of Jesus and the tomb of Princess Saint Joan is also in the Museum.

The food and sweets is still a battle between me and my son, because like all children, he is suspicious regardless of what is new and unknown.
But as I had explained to him, and he already had experience with the pastel de Belém, everything that identifies us as the Portuguese and is done in our land, we have to experience and have knowledge to say and talk to other people.
And after he read about the history of Ovos Moles and the Pão de Ló de Ovar, became convinced that he had to taste and he particularly like the Pão de Ló de Ovar and brought with him a barrel of Ovos Moles.

The Ria de Aveiro with its famous Moliceiro, which so delighted my son, is a famous icon of the city.

The hotel where we were staying was the Palace Aveiro where we were well attended, well received and have opened their doors to animals, and was not surprised with our four-legged companions.
The room was excellent (in the words of my son "slept like a baby"), the shower is very good, and heavenly breakfast.
Therefore, a reference;)

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog Trekking to a Museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Dog Trekking to Guincho

2011-07-13T03:50:00.000-07:00

Article about a Dog Trekking to Guincho
On this week-end we went to another dog trekking organized by the association Pé ante Pata. On this dog trekking I went, accompanied by Teco, my Australian Shepherd blue merle, and my sun, accompanied by Bianca, our Golden Retriever. The scene was the wild and natural coast of Cascais, from Malveira da Serra to the beach of Guincho. The route was through nature, with the smell of the sea, surrounded by raspberries (that we eat ... well at least me, since my son didn't go along with that) and passing through villages, once typical, but now with large houses and mansions to behold and to invoke thoughts of euro millions. Meeting in Malveira da Serra, a village located in the Natural Park of Sintra-Cascais, which gives a beauty to this town, located in the proximity of the Atlantic. Me, my sun, Teco, Australian Shepherd and Bianca, Golden Retriever In the track on background we can see the Forte, My sun and Bianca, Golden Retriever Visit to Forte Velho do Guincho ou Forte das Velas which stands by the sea between the beach of Guincho and Abano. In a break at the Forte Velho do Guincho ou Forte das Velas – Cascais – Lisboa with our 4 leg friends Pause to eat in a village at the foot of Malveira da Serra The group taking a break for eat Walking The group taking a break to listen to explanations of the guides My son at the foot of the geodesic mark Walking ... Another dog trekking successfully completed, with joy in the midst of friendly people and impeccable organization. The group They left us mouth watering with the possible next trekking, that we hope to attend and discover more about our Portugal.

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog Trekking to a Museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

2011-06-15T02:04:00.000-07:00

Article about a trip to the Fluviário de Mora
In order to enjoy four days of rest and improve our knowledge and culture we decided to visit the Fluviário de Mora. Since a long car journey was involved I decided to take Teco, Australian Shepherd, and Bianca, Golden Retriever, since their personalities are more fit to long trips in the middle of people in the city. The city on the way is Montemor-O-Novo and the stop to visit the castle was mandatory. With great regret we found that all museums were closed due to be Monday, so those visits must be made in another time. Montemor-O-Novo Castle After this visit nothing like a stop in the fields of Alentejo for a pick-nick! My sun Gabriel, Teco, my Australian Shepherd, and Bianca, my Golden Retriever on the break for lunch Ok! With full bellies, where for dessert we had strawberry and a chocolate crepe with ice cream bought in the city, we travel towards Mora. On Mora arrival we follow the signs to the Fluviário de Mora. As expected, the visit was very nice and educational, where the tanks highlights was the realism of the habits, healthy fish and clear waters. Fluviário de Mora A very rewarding and well spent day ;)

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog Trekking to a Museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

2011-02-23T01:57:00.000-08:00

Article about Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel
Teco, my Australian Shepherd ,in one of the views of the Atlantic Ocean This weekend there was a dog trekking to Cabo Espichel organized by the association Pé ante Pata. On this dog trekking I took my faithful Teco, my Australian Shepherd blue merle. Cabo Espichel is located near Sesimbra, just take the path towards Sesimbra and follow the arrows. My last visit was in my youth, taken by my parents and really had no recollection of this cable that enters the Atlantic Ocean. The view is amazing because the landscape is arid and dotted with a few buildings surrounded by ocean. Shrine of Our Lady of Mua Stone The buildings are referred to the Shrine of Our Lady of Pedra Mua, and our guides mentioned a legend created to justify the remains of dinosaur footprints in the 18th century, and of course searching the net we find the so called legend, Memory Chapel Frei Agostinho of Santa Maria (17, Tomo II, p. 474) narrates it with details: «(…) claim that Our Lady appeared on the beach that lies beneath the same rock where he built Ermidinha, which appeared on her donkey, and that the donkey had climbed up the rock, and that it climbed using hands and feet and leaving printed traces of the hands and feet (…)». Stressing the «tradition of those who saw it stated, and the signs were timeworn», he adds that the Ermida «founded on the place were Our Lady stopped» and that the chapel «often undid the time; but the devotion of those who serve, reformed so many times, despite its rigors.» Translated from the source: Cult Our Lady of the Cable in Wikipédia So there is no doubt that this trips enrich us culturally ;) Ok, from the historical and cultural part, we go into the trip itself … As heavy rain fall on the night before, I was waiting until the last hour that this dog trekking was postponed and fear that on Sunday, only half a dozen people would show up. It surprised me, the sunny day and the number of people who came ... there is no doubt that these dog trekking have become a success and attracted many people. They are very pleasant walks in the midst of very nice people that make you feel very welcome. And despite of today that I feel like a 80 old women with very sore legs, I know that in the next dog trekking I will do my best to be there. Until today this is the dog trekking that demanded more from me and that wasn't due to the number of miles walked, but more to the status of the tracks were the rains open ditches and made mud rivers, that required more effort to overcome. The local available information about the shrine and dinosaur footprints The dinosaur footprints on very visible on the ground Overall it was a trip with breathtaking views, in a nice friendly atmosphere, punctuated with challenges. Many thanks to the organization for this experience ;)

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to a Museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Dog trekking to a museum

2010-11-11T07:58:00.000-08:00

The group concentration near the complex of buildings belonging to Museum de Odrinhas

On the weekend of November 7th we went to another Dog Trekking organized by the association Pé ante Pata with two of our four leg companions, Teco my Australian Shepherd leaded by me, and Bianca, Golden Retriever, leaded by Gabriel, my sun.

My sun in front of the complex of buildings belonging to Museu de Odrinhas with Teco, Australian Shepherd and Bianca, Golden Retriever

This time the association wanted to go further and organized a dog trekking that not only would provide the participants with the spectacular contact with nature, but also would provide some unusual experiences.

So they began the adventure by a visit to a museum together with our 4 legged friends. The museum that accepted the challenge was the Museum de Odrinhas located in Sintra.

Inside of the Archaeological Museum of San Miguel de Odrinhas in the Roman Basilica

Inside of the Archaeological Museum of San Miguel de Odrinhas in the Roman Basilica , with Teco, Australian Shepherd, Bianca, Golden Retriever and the remaining human and canine group

Inside of the Archaeological Museum of San Miguel de Odrinhas in the Etrusca Crypt, with Teco, Australian Shepherd and Bianca, Golden Retriever

The ruins of a Roman dwelling

The Medieval church built with stones of the roman ruins

This museum not only opened the door without any prejudice to our canine companions, but also provided a guided tour through their archaeological discoveries that gave us the opportunity (very well apreciated by my sun) to culturally enrich us.

So a very well appreciated visit to a museum that I didn't know !

View of the beautiful hills in the dog trekking

Stop in one of the village community water fountains.

Then we were led through the hills to a famous house of homemade bread with sausage, which was a delight to our taste and that we shared with our canine companions(a delicious idea).

View of Windmills

With full stomachs we set off to visit a local "ghost town", the Village of Broas, which is one of the most emblematic and typical villages of Mafra county. Here once again, the dedicated attention and care by the organization provided us with an explanation of the village origins and history, offering at the some time tea, made on the spot, under a huge tree that was the concentration of the village community (unique !!).

Hearing the explanation and resting with a cup of tea under the community tree of the Village of Broas

In front of a typical house of the Village of Broas with Teco, Australian Shepherd and Bianca, Golden Retriever

After this rest and gathering we return ... and almost regret the end of the trip.

I can only add my many thanks to the organization that provides in a altruistic way, people, time, and will to organize these tours that provide moments of happiness, delight and cultural enrichment, with no cost, except that of our effort and time.

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Dog trekking in Almada

2010-10-11T05:39:00.001-07:00

Cookie, Australian Shepherd and Bri, Golden Retriever

The goal to initiate my sun in trekking is to try to maintain some level of physical activity, adding the learning of our natural and cultural environment, and sincerely without having money for more, trying to avoid him from occupying his free time with sedentary activities, like video games and TV.

Of course in our case, that we train our dogs exists a big component in our lives out of the sedentary environment, but I still feel that our return to Lisbon drastically reduced our outdoor activity (or maybe this feeling is caused by our agility performance being largely overcame by our dogs running capability … anyway ...)

My sun with Bri, Golden Retriever

As such I try to keep the spirit of doing a physical activity with our 4 leg family members, were we can meet other people and at some time do some physical activity.

As it is obvious, this time, I appeal to the spirit of helping an association for abandon dogs has a last push and there we went, with an additional reason to go, and walk with our four leg friends.

Me with Bri, Golden Retriever and Cookie, Australian Shepherd

So, armed with a solidarity spirit, we participate in the dog trekking organized by the HousePet in Almada. It was a city dog trekking without the natural beauty of our previous adventure, but even so, an excellent opportunity to make new friends and support a very close cause.
We brought Cookie, my Australian Shepherd and Bri, Golden Retriever witch is Bianca mother.

A lot of people went and so I have to admire the several people solidarity spirit!

The group

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Dog trekking in Serra de Sintra

2010-09-27T06:03:00.001-07:00

This weekend I took my sun, his Golden Retriever, Bianca, and my Australian Shepherd , Teco, to a hiking with dogs organized by the association Pé ante Pata, on Serra de Sintra.

It isn’t the first hiking the association organizes, but we couldn’t go before, and since this opportunity emerged I started to foreseen our change to go, and engaged on the “art” to persuade my sun to put aside the commodity and embark in this adventure.

The Serra de Sintra it is, in my opinion, one of the beutiful places to visit in Portugal. We can go there 10 times, and still find something new to see and know !

Recently it was classified has a Humanity Heritage and that reason brought an extra incentive to the preservation of its historical and natural environment.

Of course, what I know of Serra de Sintra it is its tourist and famous site, so I anticipate in this, a chance to know more deeply its natural ecosystem, for witch the mountain is also famous. But without a guide or sharing of knowledge from someone that knows, it is difficult for us to find for ourselves.

Like everything that is organized in portuguese lands we went prepared for three options:
1) the possibility of being organized by enthusiasts, but without knowledge that would end in a dog confusion
2) the possibility of being organized by experienced experts without patience for beginners
3) the possibility of being well organized and becoming a good adventure

Of course, if the two first possibilities would occur, I would take my son and four leg companions to a more traditional path were we would enjoy and wouldn’t have any possibility of getting lost.

My sun, with his Bianca, and another little companion

But, with a great relief, the third possibility occur, and I find out that we have on national lands people that organize events with no profit in mind, offering their effort, time and knowledge, to provide us, enthusiasts and curios, an well spent adventure, with our 4 leg friends, in the middle of people with the some taste and will.
It isn’t easy to find people like that in Portugal. And the simple detail of having 6 people, 2 in front, 2 in middle and 2 in the end of the group, taking care of the group and dedicating their energy in keeping the rhythm and enthusiasm, was frankly something to bring tears to my eyes …

Here we are in the meeting place

The trekking itself it is only easy for our four leg companions that were in heaven with this new adventure provided by their crazy owner. Bianca, like a Golden Retriever , enjoy the attention and petting of everybody, Teco, in his Australian Shepherd way, enjoyed the natural environment, the virgin territory, and the chance to know new four leg friends.

Here I am in one of the tracks with our four leg companions

For us humans, it was a success to reach to the end of the trekking, the enormous pleasure to be in the middle of nature, the chance to know a new aspect of Serra de Sintra ecosystem and the enjoyment to spend well a Sunday morning in the middle of dog loving people.

An adventure that I hope to have a change to do it again !

One of the beutifull views of Guincho beach

A stop to enjoy the view to Guincho beach

For everyone that doubt we were in Serra de Sintra, here it is the famous Palácio da Pena

A group photo

A neolitique tume

Me and my sun

Marco geofisico

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Alcochete - goldens e aussies

2010-04-13T10:35:00.000-07:00

Alcochete is one of those Portuguese characteristic towns that put a mark in our heart. From the houses to the monuments and its proximity to Lisbon, all breeds tradition and Portuguese soul.

Charming is the best word to describe it.

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

Economic Trips with dogs

2009-11-09T10:18:00.001-08:00

Here is a ride that I and my son did with Angel, our Australian Shepherd, ... economic and ecological !

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

2009-11-09T06:13:00.001-08:00

On this weekend the Lagos City Hall organized a guided tour to the Dinosaur footsteps traces left in Salena Beach 120 million years ago.

Definitely a very well done initiative since hardily I could distinguish this footsteps on the rock and since Prof. Luís Azevedo Rodrigues was the guide, everything was properly explained and become a very educational and lightening trip.

Because it was field visit I took Teco, my Australian Shepherd, to give him and people the chance to interact.

It was a very pleasant trip, in a sunny day, that allowed us to know a new Algarve area.

1º set of footsteps that is believed to me made by a Terópodes group

2º footsteps believed to belong to Iguanodonte

More info in:

http://www.mnhn.ul.pt/dinos/public_html/Media/pagina%20interior.pdf

http://issuu.com/ciencia_ao_natural/docs/national_geographic_portugal_2006

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

2009-05-04T04:02:00.001-07:00

Me and Cookie, my Australian Shepherd, in ferry boat to Armona IslandSince yesterday was 3 of May, Mothers Day, I thought that me and my son should make the most of the day and go into one of those discovery trips.

I already had heard a lot about the Natural Park of Ria Formosa on Algarve, Portugal and the first intention was to know and show it to my son, and so we went to Olhão. Of course, without a lot of surprise, dogs weren’t allowed and since I was with my Australian Shepherd, Cookie, I decided to investigate the boats to the island, which some people had also spoke about.

Me and Cookie, my Australian Shepherd, in Armona Island beach

Ferry Boat to Armona Island beach
We arrived just on time of the ferry boat leaving and sincerely without knowing its destiny we just went on board and trust our luck.

Now, for my surprise, the trip with animals is something quite common to the visitors and locals habitants of the island of Armona and I imagine my question about Cookie being allowed raised more surprise that the fact of me taking her.

Cookie, my Australian Shepherd, in Armona Island beach

Me and Cookie, my Australian Shepherd, near Armona Island houses
The island of Armona is one of the most peaceful places that I ever meat until today and taking the words out of my son mouth, the birds is what we hear most on the island.

The little houses, so I was tolded, are quite habitated and the island has a permanent population of turism and fishing workers.

My son and Cookie in a cofe shop at Armona Island beach

Cookie, my Australian Shepherd, in Armona Island
A trip to stay in our memories, since my Cookie, behaved like a true lady (even being her first boat trip) and was always obedient when I call her and stayed always near me. She is becoming a true companion in trips and travels, since she is reliable and we can always trust her.

Personally I love the area, the calm and peace, considering an idyllic excellent place to recover strength and energy from the noise and daily stress.

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Dogs in Meia Praia

2008-09-10T04:08:00.001-07:00

Meia Praia beach in Lagos, Algarve

This weekend it RAIN and what may seams bad luck for some, for those that have dogs in a weekend early morning, is a unique opportunity to take them to the beach.

So I left my idea of being lazy on a Saturday morning and took Brad, Golden Retriever and Cookie, Angel and Teco, the 3 Australian Shepherd, and we went to take some sea baths … well, they took sea baths and I stayed for taking photos on this beutifull beach in Algarve, Portugal.

Cookie and Angel, my two Australian Shepherd, at Meia Praia beach in Lagos, Algarve

Australian Shepherd and Golden Retriever, at Meia Praia beach in Lagos, Algarve

Two Australian Shepherd, at Meia Praia beach in Lagos, Algarve

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

2008-08-11T02:41:00.001-07:00

Medieval Fair of Silves, Algarve

On this weekend the famous Medieval Fair of Silves started.

Since it is a period that always calls for children dreams and attention, I decided to take my son and my puppy Cookie, our Australian Shepherd, to a walk into our past in the medieval era.

Me and Cookie, my Australian Shepherd, in Silves, Algarve

Silves was dressed with flags, tents, stands, costumes, music and all of sort of effects that took us to that period.

I imagine that Cookie would be in a worst frightening state, since it was very loud, but she was a very behaved full of courage puppy. Curiosity about all of that was the main factor. Of course the big horses and donkeys made her think twice, but nothing that could be handled.

Some medievel dressed actores

Me and Cookie, my Australian Shepherd, at the Silves castle street

Me and Cookie, my Australian Shepherd, in front of Silves castle entrie

My son buying a medievel wooden sword

My son even had the chance to buy a wooden sword with his name painted.

Then we went to see the tournament. The high event of the fair !

For my most surprise Cookie was allowed to watch and enter with us. I think just for this attitude Silves deserves a big reward.

At this stage Cookie was fine, enjoying the petting and treats I was giving for her to be calm and happy. But when the horse come running (IA we were in front) she thought twice and tried to hide under the seat. Oh well not everything could be perfect !

Cookie, my Australian Shepherd watching the tournament in the Medieval Fair of Silves, Algarve

And that is it ! Our trip to the past in the Medieval Era on Algarve, Portugal ! We love it !

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

2008-08-05T09:53:00.001-07:00

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique, Algarve

Me, Brad and Bri, my Two Golden Retriever, in Monchique on Algarve, Portugal

On this weekend I decided to take my two Golden Retriever, Brad and Bri, in a trip, since on the next weekend I will be all into Australian Shepherd presentation at Lisbon and Mediterranea dog show.

So after some indecision about the place to visit some how the road lead us to Monchique.

And I must say, what a city ! Lovely, so green and full of nice restful parks and green gardens. We almost could say we weren’t in Algarve or we were in some kind of oasis.

Our two Golden Retriever were very well received by the people and recede lots of complement, so a big reward for us. My son had a lovely time in the children play areas and love the flours, green gardens and of course water nora.

So a really nice place to visit in Algarve with a nice changing of sceneries.

The history of Monchique goes back to roman times, where the Romans were attracted by the thermal waters.
The development of the town was attributed to the growth of the wool and flax mills; and to the Chestnut tree saw mills.

In the end of our visit we had a mandatory stop in the famous Terms of Monchique, just to have look into this delight of peace.

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

2008-08-05T09:52:00.002-07:00

Me, my son and Teco, my Australian Shepherd, in São Domingos Mines

On this weekend me, my son and my Australian Shepherd, Teco went to visit some friends in the little-known fluvial rural town of São Domingos Mine.

Teco, my Australian Shepherd, in São Domingos Mines

The trip was a long one, since we are more then 2 hours drive distance. But for sure it is worth it, since the peaceful town and quite fresh waters, gave to us an excellent day.

Me, my son in São Domingos Mines

A little information about this town:

Me, my son and Teco, my Australian Shepherd, in a visit to the mines

This town has been now renovated and has to offer five stars accommodation, a well signal visit to the mines ruins and restaurants with traditional gastronomy.

For those who don’t like the heavy tourist season, the month of July and August are a big No, since its terribly full of people. But in the remaining year is a lovely very quite town to visit and if you are lucky with the weather then you will be all day enjoying the quite waters.

The mines were exploited initially by the Romans. They were re-discovered in the middle of the XIX century and functioned until the mid-XX century, under concession to an English company. To stress the importance of the mines, James Mason, one of the partners in the business, received titles of the nobility from Dom Luís and Dom Carlos, namely those of Baron of Pomarão, Viscount of Mason of São Domingos and Count of Pomarão.

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

2008-08-05T09:52:00.001-07:00

Bri, my Golden Retriever in Sagres, Algarve
Sagres on Algarve, Portugal is a memorial place, with it’s high rocks, scary sea fronts and position in the most western point of Europe.

In nice calm days a walk to the fort of Sagres is recommended to the all family and allows us to go back in time to the glorious discoveries times.

I took my son and my Golden Retriever, Bri, to a visit in this remarkable place and my son love the sea views, the fort high walls and canons.

So it was a well spent day for all of us !

Me and Bri, my Golden Retriever, in Sagres, Algarve

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

A walk with my Australian Shepherd through Luz, Algarve Portugal

2008-08-05T09:51:00.001-07:00

This time me and my Australian Shepherd, Cookie, went to visit the famous Praia da Luz, located in Algarve Portugal.

This area is known by the famous Black Rock formation that is believed to be created by volcanic activity from Monchique.

Luz has a pedestrian walk around the beach that we went through and were we only hear the English and German language. Makes us wondering if we are still in Portugal.

The beach is surrounded by palm trees that complete its oriental beauty. All access to the beach are forbidden to dogs and so we stay on the side walk (the funny thing is for loose dogs this forbidden sign wasn’t well respected).

And that is it, a positive experience for Cookie and me, since it was first walk made for just us two.

Other trips and travel:

In the Dinosaur Exhibit

A trip to Palmela

A trip to Aveiro

Dog trekking to Guincho

Trip to Fluviário de Mora

Dog Trekking to Cabo Espichel

Dog trekking to a museum

Dog trekking in Almada

Dog Trekking in Serra de Sintra

Alcochete - goldens and aussies

Economic Trips with Dogs

An Australian Shepherd in Salema Beach

An Australian Shepherd in Armona Island

Dogs in Meia Praia

Silves, a visit to medieval times with Cookie, our Aussie

Two Golden Retriever in Monchique

A trip to the São Domingos Mine with our Australian Shepherd

Taking a Golden Retriever to the fortress of Sagres

A Walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

Portugal Algarve, Amado Beach with our Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd

>> Back to Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever and Portuguese Water Dog Blog Homepage <<

A walk with Brad, our Golden Retriever through Lagos

2008-08-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

Brad, my Golden Retriever, in Lagos, Algarve

In a beautiful sunny day I decide to take a walk in one of our Portuguese historical towns with my Golden Retriever Brad.

Brad behaved perfectly and received a lot of complements of the British tourists that visit us at this time of year. I can say he is a very lovely and tender representative of his breed in Portuguese lands.

I hope you can enjoy the video and photos of this walk.

Now a little history about this town - Portugal, Algarve - Lagos:

The city of Lagos is an ancient maritime town with more than 2,000 years of history.

It is known by it’s important strategic point during the 15th century period of Portuguese exploration..

It was also through Lagos that the first African slaves entered post-mediaeval Europe. There is a 17th century building standing on the exact site where the first slave markets were held in the 15th century. As the major sponsor of these expeditions, Prince Henry received one fifth of the selling price of the slaves. After his death the town began to slumber as the Royal family lost interest in the Algarve. All major trading houses then took up residence in Lisbon.

The old Portuguese town was a very beautiful city with many monuments until it was destroyed by the earthquake and tsunami of 1755. But it still preserves some rebuilt walls from the 16th century, a governor's castle from the 17th, and the site of what is believed to have been the first black slave market in Europe (the Mercado de Escravos, opened in 1444).