Entre a estepe e o montado

The route begins in the small village of Azinhal, situated in an area where oak forests alternate with a vast plain. The impoverished soil has a “pale” color, living up to the name “white field” commonly given to these lands. Leaving Azinhal on a dirt road heading west, we quickly reach Monte Barbeiro. This is a small, typically Alentejo hill, similar to Monte Peso, located a short distance from each other. Continuing in the same direction, and leaving Monte Peso behind, we reach a paved road where we follow the left side. The paved stretch is short, and we quickly reach the village of Corte Pequena, a village of medieval origins.
Once in the village, we now head east toward Monte Balança, again on a dirt road. Monte Balança, so named because it is associated with the former weighing of ore. This ore came from the Balança mines, part of the world-renowned Iberian pyrite belt.
As we continue our walk, not far from the mines, we come across a large holm oak on our right.
At the end of the route, almost in a straight line to the village of Azinhal, it is common to observe birds. An area characterized as one of the most important European communities of steppe birds, namely the great bustard, black-bellied wheatear, little bustard, griffon vulture, black vulture, and Iberian imperial eagle, among others. As you approach the village of Azinhal, you find yourself in a concentrated area of holm oak forest, rich in natural value. This is a feeding ground for the crane and the perfect habitat for many game species such as rabbit, hare, partridge, and wild boar.
Once the route ends with your arrival in the village, we suggest a hike up to Serra da Alcaria Ruiva, the highest point in the municipality, offering a superb panoramic view of the plain.