PR 1 AGN - Benfeita Schist trail - The freshness of waterfalls

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Ameal's Square, Benfeita

The Schist trail of Benfeita is a circular route that starts in the centre of thevillage. The route is best followed in an anti-clockwise direction, initiallyheading towards the valley of the Carcavão stream. We follow a narrow path,on the banks of the stream, which tumbles down small but stunningwaterfalls, and the landscape changes around us, showing the signs of Man'sactivity over the years. Given how steep this area is, the route leaves thestream and climbs by ancient rural paths with countless stone steps. You needto be especially careful in this section. We reach the top of the climb shortlyafter a section of the stream where the water seems to have literally carvedits way through the rocks. From the top of the rocky ridge there are spectacularviews over the whole valley. The route crosses a paved road beforereaching the village of Sardal on a gentle path that contours the hill. Aftercrossing through the centre of the village, where we can stop to recharge ourbatteries, we begin to descend, using narrow paths and irrigation canals, butthat are clearly visible. We are already in the heart of the Protected Landscapeof the Açor Mountains. There is an (optional) short cut here that descendsstraight to the cliffs of Pena, and the impressive waterfalls. The main routecarries on until the village of Pardieiros, where there are various amenities. Avisit to the Rural themed small museum is well worth a visit. From here wedrop back down to Benfeita following the Mata stream again, crossingfarmlands that are still in active use today.