S. Teotónio » Odeceixe

It is worth doing this trail in the spring, when the turbulence of the winter floods has subsided and life is emerging all around you. Both along the streams and in the shrubs, the biodiversity is absolutely astounding. Pterospartum tridentatum, oregano, sage-leaved rock-rose, pink rock-rose, laurustinus, myrtle, heather, broom, common hawthorn, mastic tree or flax-leaved daphne are just some of the bushes that abound along the route. Birds respond to this diversity by filling the space with the sound their singing and the views of their skillful flights. The vegetable gardens and fields occupy the floodplains with flat, fresh and fertile soils, ground that is quite rare in this landscape of poor, sparse soil.

The riparian galleries are fantastic, with ash, alder, portuguese oak, willow and tamarisk. The leaves of these trees are deciduous, letting the light enter the flowing streams in the winter and protecting the habitats during the summer with their shade. When crossing the streams, note the holes carved into the bedside barriers: they are made by the southwestern water vole, a friendly rodent reminiscent of a small beaver, not only in the shape of its body, but also in its aquatic agility. In autumn, it is worth asking the inhabitants of the rural houses to taste the unique fruit from their orchards. There are many local varieties of fruits and vegetables that are now being defended from extinction, by associations and by the rural communities themselves.

Where to start

The trails of Rota Vicentina are described from north to south, but the direction is merely indicative. Historical Way is fully signposted in both directions. On the north side it starts in S. Teotónio, at the church square (largo Gomes Freire, called Quintalão). On the south side it starts in Odeceixe, in the beginning of rua do Rio street.

Learn more about our signage here.

Variant

This section cannot be hiked during periods of high precipitation. Choose the alternative trail (15 km).

Maintenance Authority: Rota Vicentina

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