Cycle of Walks in Lower Guadiana: Discovering Nature with Odiana Association

The Cycle of Walks in the Lower Guadiana is a unique opportunity to explore this region in a healthy and sustainable way, accompanied by experienced guides and nature enthusiasts. The walks are easy to moderate level and have an average duration of three hours, including stops for resting and contemplation of the landscape. Participants are advised to bring water, sunscreen, comfortable footwear, and clothing suitable for the weather.

Each hike is themed and focuses on a different aspect of nature or culture in the region. For example, one walk might take participants to discover the migratory birds that visit the Lower Guadiana, while another might reveal the medicinal and aromatic plants that grow on the hillsides. Some hikes also include activities such as tasting local products like cheeses, wines and typical sweets, or visits to archeological sites and local museums.

Besides promoting the discovery of the region's nature and culture, the Cycle of Walks in the Lower Guadiana also has an educational and environmental awareness character. The guides provide information about the local flora and fauna, as well as the threats they face, such as desertification, intensive land use and climate change. Participants are invited to adopt responsible environmental use practices and to value the region's natural resources.

The Cycle of Walks in the Lower Guadiana is an initiative that contributes to the sustainable development of the region, promoting nature and cultural tourism, and involving local communities in the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage. This year, there will be three walks, the first of which will take place on March 19th.

 "Walk for a greener planet" is the motto of this first route, which is about 10km long and starts at 9:30am from the Recreational Group of Corte António Martins.
The second route will take place on April 1st at 2.30pm and leaves from the Parish Councils of Alcoutim and Pereiro, with the theme "Walking is the best medicine", stretching over 10.5km.
And finally, the third route will take place on April 22nd with the theme "Preserve, don't destroy". This is the longest route, with 11km and will start from "Revelim de Sto. António" in Castro Marim. 
In addition to the nature aspect, each of these routes aims to alert the population to the environment and the importance of an active life in the prevention of diseases such as stroke.