Sustentur - Rota do Barrocal

• Start of route – Vila Real de Santo António
• End of route – Aljezur
• Difficulty level – Intermediate
• Duration – It is recommended to complete the crossing in 5 days with an average of 44.5 km/day
• Altimetry – 2700 m ascent
• GPS coordinates Start: 37.19695, -7.41402
• GPS coordinates End: 37.31672, -8.80289
• Distance: 222.8 km

The Barrocal is the region located between the coast and the Algarve mountains, holding Legal Protection status under the Habitats Directive. This area consists of both gently rolling lands and limestone massifs, both covered with diverse Mediterranean shrub and tree vegetation. On the clayey and fertile soils of the Barrocal, mixed dryland orchards emerge, composed of carob trees, fig trees, almond trees, and olive trees.

Many fauna species are also preserved in the Barrocal, including an extensive list of bird species. Among hills, valleys, and waterways, small towns, villages, and hamlets appear with rich history, customs, and traditions that their populations proudly strive to preserve.

Due to its geography and orography, with an average altitude between 100 and 300 m, cycling through the Barrocal is one of the best ways to explore this typical area of the Algarve region.