71:16 Portugal: Geres. Barragem da Canicada: Another leg of Lake Canicada, the actual dam. 71.17 The Lake and forests some 15 miles further north along the PR-3

We've mentioned our fascination of Lake Canicada numerous times. We set out on a Sunday morning to explore another section of it during a day of expected rain. It's in the area that the dam wall is situate. The wall is massive, even intimidating from the side view, but most pleasant to walk across. In Europe, large vehicles are not practical as roads are inclined to be narrow and treacherous, particularly in the mountainous regions and small towns. One has to be competent in parking it in tiny spots and driving in narrow places. Hence, those who don't learn to drive proficiently, should drive small vehicles, at the very least. 

Should a person need some serenity, we believe this position with its ideal coloring could do the trick. 
Here's a perspective of the dam wall with a mere spray of water flowing over.
What's behind the wall? Don't fence me in wouldn't cut it in this context no matter how kind one wished to be to the water.
  When we arrived at the lake, we drove toward the bridge where a red traffic-light indicated we should stop. Did this mean stop and turn-around or wait one's turn to cross? My first reaction was to turn around as the road across the bridge looked far too narrow to allow us to pass. Obviously, it was a pedestrian bridge--it made sense. Then we saw a car roar across once the green light shone. Great instincts on my part. 

  Thereafter, we parked our vehicle and walked--after all, that's what we do. However, we took careful note to check whether the car ahead of us was an illusion or really did drive to the other side. Sure enough, I was wrong. More than enough room, perhaps 2 inches on each side for a small car. It reminded me of a time in Spain when we had to cross with an oncoming car approaching on a narrow road over a river, sort of bridge (you had to be there). I stopped and the irate driver got out from his vehicle and gave me a few tips. He also ensured that the side-view mirrors were folded inwards. Every inch counts in those situations. I wondered whether I should hold my stomach in just to create extra room. 

  Jen got out the car, deciding it would be a good time for her to take a walk. I think that was probably the closest I've driven while holding onto the wheel, reciting a prayer and having my eyes closed and my stomach tight. 

  In closing, I would add that the drivers of this country, including those of Spain and Italy have a rather relaxed approach to speed limits, negotiating narrow roads at reasonable speeds and courtesy to fellow drivers. Heck, who are we to judge? 

Heading deeper into the forest, enjoying the curve.
Now we are really in deep when one sees a strange sight ahead. I admit I felt intimidated until I realized...
Passing homes abutting the water...lovely.
A reminder for us of the Drakensberg Mountain's rock formations (South Africa). Hope to hike to the top before we depart.
Another (beautiful) view of part of this amazing lake as we move further in, walking northwards.
A perspective of the dam wall showing the road and 'sidewalk'. Alternatively, we look at 'the wall from both sides now'.
Part 2: PR-3. A hike to the peak which overlooks Lake Canicada from the north-eastern side. In other words, some 15 miles further along the water, north of the above position.

The part that follows below deals less with hiking aspects but rather, concentrates on the composition of the forests, focusing on trees.

Lake Canicada from an overlook. Once again, we are able to prove that where there's smoke, there must be a fire...further enlight(en)ing you. 

Jen and I agreed instead of walking on a trail down to the commencement, "She'd take the high road, I would take the low road, and we'll see who might arrive first in Scotland"...after all we are in Europe.
Because I am 'very sharp', I recognize the smile. It's requesting help up the steps. Now is when I have to 'play my cards' smartly. Unfortunately, it's a time when I'm not 'card sharp'.
5 separate and different scenes in a forest, all photographs taken close to each other.

'An interruption'. A view of part of the village of Geres.
Lake Canicada again, stretching and touching the physical and perhaps at times, the spiritual facets of life. Beyond the bridges leads one to the southern side, the end of that 'damn' wall. To the right of the bridges, the lake extends to Sao Bento, where we are able to climb mountains on both sides of it and look down on beautiful vistas of the area and of course, the water. (The 'Swing Hike' (71.05/08) overlooks that part of the lake.
Three further forest scenes.

Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey 

  While in Geres, we enrolled in a course on horticulture studies which is proving to be at least, colorful. It won't be long before we will be able to identify this flower and others, too.

The course seems to be working for Jen as she is able to identify the colors without hesitation. I'm a bit behind but the lecturer, an optimist apparently, says there is still some hope for me. He suggests I purchase a pair of rose-colored glasses.
I find this difficult to identify because there so many buds. But the lecturer suggested I take one step at a time and it will all fall in place. Hopefully, I'll remain standing during the process.
This is your basic white flower with a green background.