On the heights of the Sierra Estrela National Park, the signs point to an energy revolution. Wind and hydroelectric power are Portugal’s alternative energy sources.
As this is the only way I have come to know this impressive landscape, I do not perceive these symbols of change as disturbing or threatening, but rather as a contribution to the aesthetics of these mountains.
Alongside the huge rock formations in the shape of pebbles – presumably left behind by the glaciers of prehistoric times – the white rotors with their steady, slow rotation appear as one with the stillness of nature.
A man-made machine, yet quiet and unagitated. However, I am also irritated by the shadow cast by the rotors when I am close to them. The energy generated here is used to power the motor of my e-bike, which now supports me up the 1,000 metres uphill.
So I continue on to Videmonte, a small mountain village. But here I discover the Cooperative for coworking. Four marvellous places for cooperative work have been created in the Sierra.
Cooperativa, Aldeias de Montanha (coworkaldeiasdemontanha.pt).
Videmonte is also supported by tourism.
This year saw the completion of the path along the Mondego River, which is largely built on footbridges. A project with a volume of €12 million.
Os fabulosos passadiços do Mondego – Andarilho
Lajeosa do Modego, 19th Nov 2023 REH
more impressions
