Évora - São Miguel de Machede

We pass the small bridge over the river Xarrama, the neighborhood of Santa Luzia and, straight ahead on the Path, already in macadam, we reach the gates of Herdade da Fonte Coberta, about 5 km after the beginning of our journey. We bypass the entire property on the left, now on a beautiful narrow and rustic trail, leading us to the valley of the Degebe River, just after climbing a small elevation. We follow the river for 2 km, until a gate blocking the path reminds us that it is time to roll up our pants and wade across the river. We are on an old medieval way that connects Évora to Nossa Senhora de Machede, and we can still see the stones that paved it and, on the left, some of the "posts" that used to help the walkers to cross the river. Without further detours, we arrive at Nossa Senhora de Machede. We cross the bridge of Roman origin over the Machede stream and climb the slope to the top, where the church stands out among the lower houses. A village where leather is well crafted, and we can see, on the outskirts, the tannery, which justifies the anomalous number of coffee shops in Largo da Casa do Povo square. We take Rua 25 de Abril on the left, but just 100 metres ahead we turn and descend Rua do Depósito. At the bend we leave the tarmac and continue along the dirt road on the right, until we are immersed in another extensive olive grove that we cross to the estate’s edge. We continue through successive hills and courelas (small cultivation plots), in a more undulating landscape, with some ravines and an immense quantity of different species birds, and even a splendid vineyard where a flock of goats also grazes. We are in the property of Casa Relvas, and it is worth suggesting a slight detour for a visit to the modern cellar, easily seen on our left, in where you can taste the wines and other local products. We are in the vicinities of São Miguel de Machede, so, with or without a detour, we enter the village soon after and finish the stage in Praça da República square, next to the parish church of the patron Saint Michael the Archangel. If you haven't done so before, it's time to start thinking about getting accommodation by asking the parish council or one of the restaurants in the area, where you can't miss the delicacy of "bochechas de porco com migas" (pork cheeks with crumbs). If you have some free time, take the opportunity to visit Monte do Álamo and its winery, located near this village.