Starting the Megalithic Walking Circuit

Start your journey in the small village of Guadalupe. This town is only ten kilometers from Évora city. You will find clear signs for the circuit here. The trail is well-marked and very easy to follow.

The full circuit covers about ten kilometers of flat terrain. Most walkers complete the loop in three hours. You should start early to avoid the hot sun. The morning light makes the ancient stones look magical.

Visit the local interpretive center before you begin your walk. It provides maps and historical context for the area. You can learn about the people who built these sites. This knowledge makes the walk much more meaningful.

There are several rural walking trails near Évora that connect here. You can extend your hike if you feel energetic. Always carry a physical map as a backup. Phone signals can be weak in the deep countryside.

The Wonders of Almendres Cromlech

The Almendres Cromlech is the crown jewel of this route. It is the largest group of standing stones in Iberia. You will see ninety-five granite monoliths arranged in circles. Some stones feature faint carvings from the Neolithic era.

This site is older than Stonehenge by two thousand years. It sits on a gentle slope facing the sunrise. You can walk freely among these mysterious ancient giants. Please do not touch the stones to help preserve them.

The atmosphere at the cromlech is very peaceful and quiet. You can hear the wind blowing through the nearby trees. Many visitors find the site to be quite spiritual. It is a perfect place for taking unique photos.

Plan to spend at least forty minutes at this location. There are benches nearby where you can rest and reflect. Look for the large menhir located just down the hill. It aligns perfectly with the main stone circle.

Visiting the Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro

The Great Dolmen of Zambujeiro is another essential stop nearby. It is one of the biggest burial chambers in Europe. The massive stone slabs reach six meters into the air. Archeologists found many ancient tools and pottery pieces here.

A protective roof now covers the main chamber area. You can view the structure from a safe distance. This site shows the engineering skills of early humans. It is a powerful place for quiet reflection.

The walk to the dolmen takes you through open fields. You will pass by ancient stone walls and quiet farms. The path is dusty but mostly level and easy. Watch for small lizards sunning themselves on the rocks.

Entry to this site is currently free for all visitors. It remains open during daylight hours throughout the year. Please stay on the marked paths to protect the site. Respect the silence of this ancient sacred burial ground.

Rural Walking Trails Near Évora Landscapes

This area features many beautiful landscapes for nature lovers. You will walk through groves of ancient cork oak trees. These forests are unique to the Alentejo region of Portugal. The region offers some of the best cork forest walking trails near Évora today.

The path also crosses fields of wild Mediterranean flowers. You might see local farmers harvesting cork from the trees. Sheep and goats often graze in the nearby pastures. The sounds of nature create a very relaxing environment.

Spring is the best time to see the wildflowers. The hills turn bright green and purple in April. Autumn brings cooler air and beautiful golden light to the fields. Each season offers a different view of the land.

You will see many birds during your walking circuit. Keep an eye out for storks nesting on high poles. Large eagles often soar above the open plains looking for food. Bring binoculars if you enjoy watching local wildlife.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Visit

Preparation is key for a successful walking trip in Portugal. Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the sandy and rocky paths. Bring at least two liters of water per person. There are no shops along the actual monument trail.

Check the weather before you leave your Évora hotel. The Alentejo region gets very hot during the summer months. Temperatures often rise above thirty-five degrees Celsius in July. Consider booking day trips for hiking near Évora Portugal for expert guidance.

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
• Apply high-factor sunscreen every two hours.
• Carry a fully charged mobile phone for emergencies.
• Pack a light snack like nuts or fruit.

The trail is mostly flat but has some uneven ground. Take your time and enjoy the slow pace of life. Many people choose to bring a walking stick for balance. This helps on the sections with loose gravel or sand.