Boardwalks of Aldeia da Serra

Category: Civil Architecture > Boardwalk

District: Évora > Redondo > Aldeia da Serra

Location

Located in the picturesque village of Aldeia da Serra, in the municipality of Redondo, these walkways invite visitors to discover the Serra d'Ossa, a geographical feature that stands out in the Alentejo region. Their elevated position offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape, revealing a greener and more mountainous side of this region.

The Path and Its Structure

The Aldeia da Serra Walkways form an accessible trail, predominantly built of wood, that winds along the hillside. They facilitate passage in steeper areas, including a notable segment approximately 400 meters long which incorporates 300 steps. This route, starting from Aldeia da Serra, allows for smooth and safe progression through the mountain's topography.

Immersion in Nature

Along the route, visitors are enveloped by the natural richness of the Serra d'Ossa. Mediterranean vegetation, with its characteristic aromas, fills the air, while the 'montado' (cork oak woodland) offers pockets of tranquility. It is common to find holm oaks, olive trees, and stone pines, which provide shade and a serene environment. The sounds of nature and the fresh breeze contribute to an immersive experience, inviting thoughtful contemplation of the surroundings.

Traces of a Rural History

The Aldeia da Serra Walkways reveal not only natural beauty but also traces of human intervention over the centuries. The path crosses old agricultural areas, shaped by generations and, in particular, by monastic communities that inhabited the mountain. It is possible to observe terraced gardens delimited by schist walls, testaments to ancient hydraulic techniques. Near one end of the walkway, there is a fountain with a water tank, whose marble inscription dates back to 1688, highlighting the long history and management of local resources.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt