South of Sétubal, we had found a short hike called Percurso do Salgueiral da Galiza, which leads through a natural reserve. Short after we started the hike, we noticed a deer between the trees.
We didn’t move or speak, to not scare it. Instead of moving away, it came slowly closer, until it walked past us, brushing us, and allowing us to touch it.
When we continued our hike, it followed us. What a strange behaviour! We noticed marks around its neck, which indicated that it was kept by humans. Maybe it escaped? It for sure was used to being around people.
The route led on a boardwalk to a lagoon. At this point at the least, we expected the doe to give up and leave us, but it continued, walking behind us.
We came to a bird hide with a gate, where our friend couldn’t follow us. When we returned from watching the birds at the lagoon, she was gone. What a strange experience! It made this hike really exceptional!
Back at the car, we decided to go to a beach for the rest of the day, choosing Praia da Fonte do Cortiço. A good sand road led to a small parking above the dunes. You are not allowed to stay here overnight, it probably is part of the nature reserve, but we enjoyed a lazy afternoon on this endless beach, which we had nearly to ourselves.
For the night, we went to a parking south of Sines, where we wanted to start a hike along the coast. More soon!