LEAF-go-VSO   

Orange Groves

On the first weekend in December 2005 all four of us went for a bike ride with a group of English Department students to visit some orange groves. The groves, situated in the hills west of Simao, were to be a venue for tasting, picking and buying delicious fruit, as well as enjoying some peace, quiet and fresh air.

After a 45 minute cycle, most of which was on bumpy dirt tracks, we arrived at a small farming village where we parked our bikes. Only one crash occurred en route but there were no major injuries - up until that point! We picked our way along a sandy path, through farmers' huts, small trees and pig stys to find an orange-grower willing to let us trample on his land.

After a brief rest at the orange picker's house we rambled amongst the orange trees, picking and eating before finally buying a bagful from the farmer. The students weren't satisfied, however, that these were the best in the valley so off we trotted to another farm. 

but not before a group photo...

Here we are being watched by a young girl of about Freda's age. Both were too shy to speak.

Furthermore, Freda and Edie were more interested in eating oranges and feeding pigs and piglets! 

We found a second farmer who was happy for a small group of 5 of us to scramble up the hillside terraces into her grove. Here we found the most delicious, small, perfectly ripe oranges. Shaded from the rising sun, they were still lovely and cool, some still shrouded in dew-covered webs.

   
December is when the mandarin oranges start to ripen. These beauties were still cool with the night's dew - and they tasted delicious!

I think this is an Out-and-About location we'll be visiting again. Further highlights on the trip were the herds of donkeys and goats we came across on the way back, the fun off-road cycling and sitting in the quiet shade with farmers watching Edie feed canes to the pigs.       

Come and visit us and we'll take you orange-picking! Offer subject to seasonal availability...unlike at your local supermarket!

       
Oranges are a relatively valuable fruit, and some of the orange groves near Simao are well fenced and protected...My eye was attracted by the rugged grandeur of this huge old padlock. It's sheer enormity seems to be shouting 'Keep Out' far more effectively than any sign would!