Trekking | Fonte Benemola Trail

The Algarve is more than just beautiful ocean beaches...

Algarve The Algarve is not just about beautiful ocean beaches. Just a few kilometers from the coast, hikers will find lush forests and babbling streams cutting through them.

If you are in the mood to immerse yourself in a wave of... green I have an interesting idea for a hike near Faro, and Loule... Trail Fonte Benemola along the rushing stream.

The Benemola riverfront protected area covers about 400 hectares of hilly terrain. Because of the waterways, the fauna here is lush. Shade is provided by numerous willows, ash trees, poplars, oleanders, rowans, and reeds. This is where you need to start the route Click Here

Leaving the parking area, you will pass a building where limestone used to be burned. Further away, on the horizon appear water mills and extensive former farmland.

Benemola stream is fed by the Olho & Fonte da Benemolasprings and is one of the most significant in the area. It holds 60% of the water level even during the hot summer months and attracts numerous wildlife, including owls, eagles, nightingales, and other smaller species. The limestone slopes of the valley are mainly covered with juniper and rock oak, accompanied by herbs: rosemary, lavender, fennel, or thyme. We also encountered strawberry trees, laurels, wild olives, and carob trees, from which we picked the pods, they smell of chocolate, cocoa, sweet ...I add them to coffee or tea, a lovely aroma...

In the early 20th century, the area was very popular for its medicinal waters, which had therapeutic effects due to their alkaline pH, sulfate, and bicarbonate levels. The water was excellent for drinking and bathing, and was used to treat rheumatic and skin diseases. Unfortunately, today the water is no longer suitable for drinking.

In shops in Portugal, you can find carob powder and carob chocolates. Carob powder is a relatively expensive novelty, but it is gaining in popularity. It is a good substitute for cocoa powder and can be used in a variety of recipes, including cakes, cookies, and smoothies. Carob chocolates are also becoming more popular.

The route is not very long, in fact, it’s only about 5 kilometers long. But, you can follow the signs for another 10 kilometers along the “7 Fontes” trail to discover other springs and beautiful corners. 7 Fontes, i odkryć inne źródła i piękne zakątki…

PS There is a very good restaurant within about 15 minutes by car - A TIA BIA. The food is local, original, and fresh - the migas in the bread is delicious.