The Azenha da Ordem Trail is perfect for enthusiasts of hikes in rural environments and enclaves where nature is very well represented. The route runs through extensive agricultural fields, olive groves and holm oak and cork oak forests until it reaches the Guadiana River, with its beautiful banks and characteristic riverside vegetation. The Azenha da Ordem watermill, in excellent state of repair, is a fine example of the typical ancient watermills of the Guadiana River.

ROUTE DESCRIPTION

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Departing from Largo Catarina Eufémia, head north and turn into Rua da Abegoaria, which will take you out of the urban centre, past the municipal sports pavilion. Cross the outer ring road and take the dirt road towards the Guadiana.

Continue straight ahead, across vast agricultural fields, and past the Horta dos Banhos water catchment, where an important Roman Villa once stood, as proven by archaeological surveys of the site.

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After passing Monte da Caldeira and Monte da Repoila, start descending through a new olive grove and holm oak forest that will take you to the abandoned Horta do Lala and Horta José Garcia (vegetable gardens), with the Guadiana River in sight.

Go down to the river and take a left, through the rural road that accompanies its course up to the Azenha da Ordem, a watermill in excellent state of repair.

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From the river, follow a long and gentle rise across the holm oak forest, past Monte das Melrinas and Monte do Gago, where the agricultural landscape reappears. 

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Take the road that leads back to Serpa by way of Eira de São Pedro, where the chapel devoted to this saint (Saint Peter) welcomes you back.