S. Teotónio » Odeceixe (alternative)

It is worth doing this stretch in Spring, when the violence of the floods has already calmed down and life explodes with all its splendor. Both along the streams and in the bushes, the biodiversity is absolutely amazing. Heather, oregano, cistus, rock rose, rosemary, myrtle, heather, gorse, strawberry tree, mastic or turpentine are just some of the shrubs that abound along the route. The birds respond to this diversity by filling the air with their song and agile flights. The gardens and cultivated fields occupy the lowlands, flat, fresh and fertile lands, so rare in this landscape of poor and thin soils.

The riparian galleries are fantastic, with ash, alder, holly oak, willow and tamarisk. The leaves of these trees are deciduous, letting light enter the stream in Winter and protecting the habitat in Summer with their shade. When crossing the streams, notice the holes dug into the banks near the bed: they belong to the water rat, a friendly rodent that resembles a small beaver, not only in body shape but also in agility in aquatic environments. In Autumn, it is worth asking the inhabitants of rural houses to try the fruit from the orchards. The taste is unique... There are many local varieties of fruits and vegetables that are now trying to be saved from extinction, by associations and municipalities.

Where to start

The stages are described from north to south, but the direction is purely indicative. The Historical Path is fully signposted in both directions. To the north it starts in S. Teotónio, in Largo Gomes Freire, Church Square, also known as Quintalão. To the south it starts in Odeceixe, at the beginning of Rua do Rio.

See the signage for this route here.

Variant

This is an alternative path for the S. Teotónio » Odeceixe stage, recommended during periods of heavy rainfall. If you want a longer route, you can follow the 17 km path.

Maintenance Authority: Rota Vicentina

Adherence to the Responsible Trails system sponsored by Turismo do Alentejo, ERT