From Lisbon: Traditional Market, Mafra, Ericeira & Crafts

Malveira Farmers Market (Mercado da Malveira) is one of the largest and oldest farmers markets in Portugal.
The market takes place every Thursday and is a popular destination for locals who come to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, clothes, shoes, flowers, and other local products.

It is famous for the Mafra National Palace, a Baroque palace and monastery built in the 18th century. The palace is one of the largest in Europe and is known for its impressive library, which contains over 36,000 volumes. Mafra is also known for its traditional sweets, particularly the "pastéis de feijo,", which are small cakes made with beans and sugar.

The Aldeia José Franco is a small traditional village located in the municipality of Mafra, Portugal. It was created by the artist José Franco in the 1960s as a way to preserve the traditional way of life of the local people. The village is made up of several houses and workshops that showcase traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and woodcarving. Visitors can see demonstrations of these crafts and purchase handmade souvenirs. The village also has a small museum that displays artifacts and tools used in traditional farming and fishing.

It is a popular destination for surfers due to its consistent waves and has been designated a World Surf Reserve. The town has a charming historic center with narrow streets and white-washed buildings, and there are several beaches within easy reach. Ericeira is also known for its fresh seafood, which can be enjoyed at the many restaurants along the waterfront. In addition to surfing, popular activities in Ericeira include hiking along the coastal trails, visiting the local markets, and exploring the local museums and art galleries. Normally, this is the lunch stop.

Portuguese windmills are traditional structures found throughout Portugal, especially in rural areas. These windmills were traditionally used for grinding grain into flour, and we will see one of the last ones still in use for this purpose today. The windmills have a distinct design, with a cylindrical or conical shape and a pointed top, and rotating blades or sails that capture the wind's energy to turn the millstones inside. While many windmills in Portugal have fallen into disrepair, some have been restored and are open to visitors. They provide a glimpse into traditional Portuguese rural life and the importance of milling in local communities.

Serra do Socorro is a mountain range located in the municipality of Torres Vedras.
It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and scenic views of the surrounding areas. The mountain range is also home to several hiking trails and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching.
It was also an important command center during the Napoleonic invasions of Portugal in the early 19th century.