Description
This is a route through vast mountain ranges with valleys carved out by
torrential streams and the Odelouca Creek, the central axis of the
landscape, marked by ridges from which the scenery stretches as far as the
eye can see.
Starting from the São Barnabé Parish Church, head
toward Monte da Cruz and Zambujal; when you reach the turnoff
for the spring, take a loose-gravel path to the left
that climbs steeply uphill. From here, you’ll have a beautiful view
of the white houses of São Barnabé. Go around the houses of Monte das
Covas and catch your first glimpse of the Ribeira de Odelouca valley, then begin descending
into the valley, passing by a small spring. Then cross the
stream several times and follow its course along the
dirt path framed by imposing patches of Mediterranean woodland.
Leave the stream’s course and begin the ascent into the hills, passing
by the abandoned Monte do Carneiro, always following the
main path.
Upon reaching a trail junction,
called Portela de Odelouca, it’s time to turn right at a
sharp curve, taking the ridge trail with views stretching to infinity
all around the horizon. From here, follow a gentle descent
in a straight line to Monte dos Pipeiros and then continue down
further down to Barranco de Pipeiros, following a wide dirt road that runs
alongside the stream’s riparian gallery, back to the starting point in the village
of São Barnabé.