The wheels turn inland today, trading the sea breeze for the rolling terrain of the Oeste region. The track skirts the dense green edges of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park before heading north. Soon, the massive National Palace of Mafra dominates the horizon, offering a great excuse for a quick espresso break by the palace walls. Beyond Mafra, the scenery transitions into a rural patchwork of vineyards, olive groves, and old wooden windmills perched on ridge lines. Historic fortification forts from the Peninsular War line the rolling ridges as the route approaches Torres Vedras. The town's medieval castle ruins tower over the final destination, marking the end of a punchy, rhythmic day in the saddle.
