Day 1 – Lisbon (Parque das Nações)

I’ve been to Lisbon once before, so rather than site seeing, I decided to start hiking right away. I went directly to the start of the Camino at the Lisbon Cathedral and began walking. I only walked 6 miles, but it was plenty after a long travel day/night.

About Lisbon

The closest city to which I can compare Lisbon is San Francisco. They both have lots of hills, interesting architecture, great restaurants/bars, plenty of cool sites and a working waterfront on a large bay. They’re also both very gritty.

Today’s Walk

Generally, the worst stages on the Camino are those entering and exiting a big city. That was true today. It started pleasant enough, but as I got out of the city centre, it was industrial, dirty and worn down. Eventually, I finished in a beautiful new neighborhood on the northern edge of the city.

Photos from along the walk out of town.

A sign? This will definitely be my approach to this Camino.

I’m staying in a really nice hotel in the new upscale part of Lisbon: Parque das Nações. It’s a redevelopment zone with a trendy waterfront, a world-class mall, a stadium, an aquarium, nice hotels and a lot of businesses.

This year I’m using a portable keyboard to write my blog. Big improvement! The view from the rooftop bar isn’t bad either. (I don’t feel like much of a pilgrim staying at this nice place, but I’m not complaining.)

13 thoughts on “Day 1 – Lisbon (Parque das Nações)”

  1. Bemvindo a Lisboa! (how;s your Portuguese?)

    I could not go inside the cathedral last year when I was there due to some events the city was holding.

    Don’t forget to eat a Pasteis de Nata (custard tart) before you live Lisbon.

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      2. Book a flight now. Even a one week vacation will create memories you’ll cherish. Other than the flight, it’s not that expensive. And make it up to Porto too. I really like that place.

  2. Beautiful pictures. I really enjoy reading about your adventures. Thanks for sharing.

    Karen Williams (Lisa Emery’s mom)

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  4. Bill, it is great to see you on the road again! Thank you for continuing to blog as you travel. It is inspiring. Stay safe and healthy!

    Holly

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  6. I’ll be praying for you each day when I read your blog. May you discover things God wants you to see and love and learn as you travel this new path! Safe travels, Bill!

    Reply

  7. Bill this is great to see you out exploring again and sharing it with all of us! Looks beautiful and so enjoyable. Be safe, have fun and take your time!

    Reply

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