I was born under the astrological sign of Capricorn, so goats and mountains resonate with me. Also the mystical and magical energies of being on top of the world with a 360 degree view of life below the summit, gives me a sense of freedom and new breath. As a young person I loved outdoor pursuits such as rock climbing, canoeing and pot holing, so being in a location like the Serra da Estela brought back happy memories and an invigorated sense of what gives my life force fuel.

My journey to the youth hostel - Pousada de Juventude - started in Abrantes in the Ribatejo. I took a local train from there to Covilha an old woollen town. The train was slow and initially followed the path of the Tejo river valley, before it started to climb and the cherry trees came into sight. The spring vegetation of yellow gorse, mimosa and green chestnut made my heart sing. Like loyal old friends they waved a ‘hello’ and I was reunited with the perennial gifts of nature, which confirmed with crystal clarity, the beauty and creativity of the universe. It was an embodied sense and a rush of heightened well-being. Who needs anything synthetic here?

From the station in Covilha there is a small shuttle bus which takes you to the highest local peak at Torre. The youth hostel was en route so I hitched a ride. Having made a mental plan to visit a local museum, on arrival I decided to stay put and meditate on the vast vistas and enjoy the chirping of the birds and the graceful acrobatics of a kestrel. Stopping and pausing was what my soul really needed. In these chaotic times I am having to ensure that I fill up on solitude and silence like never before. If my inner self is still and calm, I can better navigate the waves of change and allow them to flow through me rather than take me under. An expansive inner life jacket is a must have. Staying afloat means staying grounded and for that nature is the best teacher. I’ve recently completed training in something called spiral bridges. A method to get consciously closer to nature. It’s been enlightening.

Whilst the hostel was mostly empty, the staff were around to talk about their personal reasons for living in such a remote location. We covered many topics from being earth guardians to climate change and all manner of things in between. Wherever I travel in the world, I am always touched to discover the number of people who love our planet and who want to work and live with her rather than against her. A quiet army of earth warriors exists, and they deserve a nod and smile of recognition.

After a long weekend on high, I take the shuttle bus back to the station for my return trip to Abrantes. At the bus stop I meet a local man who has lived in these mountains all his life and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. I get that! He was a Hobbit from The Shires and we knew one another by tribe.

This short excursion sees me refreshed, restored and reminded of the gift of each spring. Annually we are blessed to experience and enjoy nature in her abundance. For that alone I am a grateful pilgrim, and know for sure that God makes all things new. Myself included.