Many people visit Idanha-a-Nova but not many take the time to explore the surrounding countryside. In the town we will take in some of the history of the area and see the bullring, kilns and an ancient chapel before winding our way through some small allotments and tiny farms.

This walk has a very steep start and a very steep finish, but takes in a good section along the bottom of the valley next to the river. From here the views of the town and the castle above you make you wonder how you will get back up there. Often Griffon vultures come out and start catching the ascending thermals and make it look very easy!

The scenery in places becomes very African in the summer when it is dry and brown, and with the blue sky and sun above you, you feel like you could be there too. There are plenty of the iconic granite boulders along the route, with one of the biggest at a shady rest spot.

Luckily there is a font on the way back up the cobbled track to the town where you can stop and cool down and splash yourself with the icy water in preparation for the rest of the climb.

Once back in the town, it is worth taking the time to climb up to the highest point of the castle for the views over the valley you just walked along, and then maybe a coffee or long cool drink in one of the many cafes before returning home.

This is not a circular route so it is necessary to return the way you went, but is a lovely walk none the less. It takes you to the dam from the town, and makes its way through plenty of untouched countryside on the way.

In the summer there are often flocks of bee eaters and a few vultures overhead, and butterflies line the paths. You walk through meadows of wildflowers, scramble over rocks, and pass lazily grazing cattle on the way.

As you reach the dam, the wall appears higher and higher, and after a short scramble up to the top, you have a view down the valley one way, and the other is a lovely vista across the lake to Monsanto in the distance. If you have the time or the inclination, it is possible to have a picnic and a swim here, before making your way back to town to enjoy a cool drink or meal in one of the many small cafes and restaurants.