tim morch

Every morning, around 11am, the fog lifts, and I carry my Feathercraft kayak to the dock. This section of Lake Alqueva is calm as I paddle out. There are only a couple of boats on mooring buoys here in Aldeia da Estrela, the occasional fishing boat on weekends, and not much more. Lake Alqueva, Portugal, is a paddler's paradise. Filled with islands and endless bays, exploring by sea kayak reveals the hidden gems.

Perhaps best of all, we knew that no matter what the weather delivered, a dry and friendly home awaited. Our friends and hosts at Green Banana brightened up the soggiest of days. Small and intimate, there is a genuine sense of family and communal living where everyone blends seamlessly.

We had just rounded the southwestern point on Phayam Island and conditions were good to cross the strong currents of Ratchakrut Channel.