A walk in suspension

by Central Magazine

In between the gorges of the Serra de Monchique, you can find an exciting wooden walkaway perfect for an autumn day out in pure nature. 

Article Cover Photo

The Algarve is widely known for being a beach paradise, where the warm weather invites us to spend the entire day in the water. However, as autumn arrives, visitors begin seeking other exciting things to do in the area, and it is good to keep in mind that the Algarve is way more than just its coastline.

Credits: TPN; Author: Sara J. Durães;

In the heart of the ‘Serra Algarvia’, in the parish of Alferce, municipality of Monchique, a distinctive walkway came to life last October. The stunning wooden walkway, which is part of the trail that connects the village of Alferce and the Cerro do Castelo de Alferce Archeological Site, has more than 500 stairs and an exclusive 50-metre suspension bridge hanging 20 metres above the ground, which makes you feel like you are in the Shrek or Indiana Jones movies.

Credits: TPN; Author: Sara J. Durães;

O ‘Passadiço do Barranco do Demo’ is located approximately 7 km from Monchique, in between majestic hills where you can observe the geologic transaction between the nepheline-syenite massif, and the interlocking rocks composed of schist and greywacke.  This walkaway, and mainly the suspension bridge, was constructed because of the site’s natural features.

Credits: TPN; Author: Sara J. Durães;

The site can be accessed from two directions: from the north, via the village of Alferce, which is reachable from the EN 267 which connects Monchique to São Marcos da Serra, and from the south, via the Cerro do Castelo de Alferce Archeological Site, where you must follow a dirt road to get to the beginning of the trail.  There is enough space to park your car at the start of the wooden walkway in both sides.

Credits: TPN; Author: Sara J. Durães;

Laying above the tributaries originated from the Odelouca stream, which flows through the gorge and creates little waterfalls and lagoons along the way, that can be spotted in specific seasons of the year when rainfall is more prominent, this walkaway experience is ideal for those who love the outdoors, seeking excitement, and wish to immerse themselves in the splendour of the Serra de Monchique.

Credits: TPN; Author: Sara J. Durães;

Offering breathtaking views, the 515-metre passage may feel short. Luckily, the ‘Passadiço do Barranco do Demo’ is integrated in a longer and slightly challenging walking trail of 3 km meant for braver people, which connects the Interpretative Centre (CICCA) and the Archaeological Site (SACCA). Along the well signed walkway, you will pass through farmland, streams, forested valleys, cork trees and even a mediaeval causeway, which keeps the walking trail entertaining.

Credits: TPN; Author: Sara J. Durães;

There are rest spots at both ends of the walkway, which are perfect for a quick drink, a lovely picnic, or for simply admiring the remarkable landscape view it provides. Although you are free to visit the site at any season of the year the best period to walk them is from the end of September to the beginning of June, when the Algarve has mild temperatures. 

Subscribe to our newsletter