Cabeça Gorda - Beja

We leave Cabeça Gorda and turn right, through Rua Machado dos Santos, until its end, and then flank the Laverda warehouse building on the left. Shortly after, we arrive at a crossroad with an asphalted road, which we cross and go straight ahead by the dirt road. After some 5 km, we find on the right the hill of Herdade dos Falcões. Next to that property, the road bifurcates and we have to pay attention to follow the path on the right. It is certain that the Path is well marked but, especially for those who go faster, by mountain bike, the natural tendency would be to go to the left... We continue 1 km slightly up until the end of the road, at a crossroad, and then we descend to the left and, just below, next to the stream, we enter a narrow passage on the right, at the end of the fence. We are in a "barranco" (a word commonly used here to designate the valleys of the small streams), called Vale de Mértola, along which is another infinite plantation of perfectly aligned olive trees. We wander through the plantation, for 2 km, until we reach cultivated fields from where we can see Beja in all its magnitude. Shortly after, we arrive at the district capital, Beja, and follow the signs to Rua de Beja, which crosses the small Bairro de São João. On the right, it is impossible to miss the amphitheatre with the large tank, to supply the rides, the wash house and several water spouts, which were very frequented by watermen in the 19th and 20th centuries. Called "Tanque dos Cavalos" (Horse Tank), it was the meeting point for riders who, in celebration of Saint John, made a pilgrimage known as "Cavalgada" (horse ride). It included banquets and live music, and was forbidden in 1835 due to the violence of the equestrian games. The Path continues straight along Rua Bento Jesus Caraça, which can only be done on foot or by bicycle. We enter Beja, a city full of traditions and student life. Please choose from the many available accomodation options, and then take the opportunity to taste the region's delicacies.

 

Maintenance Authority: Turismo do Alentejo, ERT

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