Candeeiros Route

The Candeeiros Route is a long-distance walk, around 63 km in total, through the landscape of the Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park The route starts in the town of Rio Maior, after which the greatest challenge is the ascent of the Candeeiros massif, before continuing to the Sanctuary of Fátima, through the municipalities of Porto de Mós, Batalha and Ourém. The route follows ancient rural paths that link traditional villages set on the slopes, plateaus and valleys of the geocultural area known as the Estremadura Limestone Massif.

 The environment lends itself to discovery, but also to rest and inner contemplation. The nature is striking and beautiful, with characteristic rocky formations and rare species of a variety of fauna and flora. The highest peaks offer views over the surrounding landscape stretching from the interior to the sea, while the valleys and plateaus provide a pleasantly tranquil setting.

Nature and life, rurality and urbanity exist side by side in harmony. Olive trees, common oaks and holm oaks stand proud amid the low-growing and spontaneous vegetation, where kermes oak and rosemary can be found. Small flocks of livestock punctuate the landscape, and dry stone walls mark out smallholdings, shepherds’ shelters and threshing floors. The area’s cultural heritage is preserved by welcoming communities that keep alive a wealth of traditions, imbued with the colours and flavours of a varied gastronomy.