The trail that connects Cercal do Alentejo to Porto Covo is part of the Historical Way that runs through the northern part of the Rota Vicentina. It is fully signposted in both directions: to the east it starts in Cercal do Alentejo, at Largo dos Caeiros (central traffic circle). To the west, it starts in Porto Covo, in the Market Square.
Starting in Cercal, the first part of the route takes you past small farms with their hedges, vegetable gardens and orchards. Here, the Alentejo is very much itself: life goes by to the rhythm of sowing, weeding and harvesting. Once past the aridity of the second area, where eucalyptus trees are the main protagonists, you arrive at Chaparral. Continuing along the path in the wake of the scent of rosemary, thyme, calamint and rosemary, biodiversity sprouts up all around, giving rise to more than 150 different species of plants.
On the coast, the plateaus dominate the landscape, with extensive cereal fields undulating in the wind. For the more attentive eye, it is possible to spot larks, petrels, magpies and weasels living there, although they are perfectly camouflaged in the landscape. Here you can breathe in the sea air and see the blue coloring the horizon. The presence of the sea can be felt in the air you breathe and the blue on the horizon.
All along this route, from the interior to the coast, you will discover the most varied and simple riches that the Alentejo has to offer. Step by step, you walk, with a sense of peace in your spirit and the sound of the sea calling in the distance.
This stage is sponsored by the Herdade da Matinha team.
Tip: Refuel along the route at km 13 (Pouca Farinha).
