Located in Fragas de São Simão, on the banks of the Alge stream, municipality of Figueiró dos Vinhos, the walkways of Fragas de São Simão connect the Fragas of São Simão Viewpoint to the Aldeia do Xisto of Casal de São Simão, crossing the bottom of the Alge stream gorge, on a journey through various locations and times. The landscape gravitates between the harsh roughness of Fragas de São Simão and the agricultural landscape of the valley, which evolved harmoniously and interdependently over the centuries. Along the route there are natural areas sometimes on steep hills, sometimes on valley bottoms, containing remnants of Laurissilva forest. The route also leads to the River Beach of the same name, where the Alge stream rips through the rocky massif and follows its path towards the river Zêzere. From here, proceed up towards the Aldeia do Xisto of Casal de São Simão, guarded by the Hermitage of São Simão, one of the oldest temples in Figueiró do Vinhos, dating from 1458. 

Take the opportunity to visit the Figueiró dos Vinhos Museum and Arts Centre (the Tourist Office is based in the same building) and dazzle yourself with works by artists such as painter José Malhoa or sculptor Simões de Almeida, Uncle and Nephew. In this space, in the exhibition room on Floor 1, you can also visit the Temporary Exhibition of Contemporary Art - Surrealist Collection which has works by several artists of the Portuguese surrealist movement such as Mário Césariny, Jorge Vieira and Alfredo Luz, among others. More information at facebook.com/MCAFigueirodosVinhos/.

And because sweet-making tradition is also a mark in the history of Figueiró dos Vinhos, we suggest a tasting programme of conventual sweets, at the Sta. Luzia confectionary https://www.facebook.com/confeitariasantaluzia/

To end the visit, venture out on a boat trip in the peaceful village of Foz de Alge (from the various route options, you can choose to travel to the charismatic village of Dornes, a peninsula bathed by the river Zêzere). 

Informations

- Linear Route spanning 1730 m

- Recommended Season: All year round

- Average duration: 45 minutes

- Points of Interest: Fragas de São Simão | Aldeia do Xisto of Casal de São Simão | Alge Stream | Hermitage of São Simão

Useful advice

- Pay attention to the signage;

- Do not leave the marked/signposted route;

- Avoid making noise;

- Respect private property;

- This is everyone's space. Don't litter. Discard unwanted waste in the rubbish bins.