Asseca Valley walk starting point has been chosen very consciously. About 50% of the Asseca route leads you over tarmac and stone clad roads. Not the most exciting pavement, but it shows a beautiful insight in the agriculture in the valley (mostly oranges and other fruit). It also offers unexpected side paths towards the Asseca river where many birds and special plants find their home. We have been able to spot a colony of common waxbills between the reeds. At a small bridge without railings, route Asseca valley turns to the left, direction Cachopo. And at the next T-crossing we hose another left.

The second part of the route leads us over a dirt track on the other side of the river. A large fire in 2012 unfortunately destroyed a lot of the green alongside the route. The most important cascade, Pego do Inferno, can only be reached by an “alternative route” now. However the Tavira council has reached an agreement with the owner of the land and cascade, that it will be accessible to the public again in 2017. At this time however, the stairs leading to the lake have been completely burnt and destroyed and the small lake lies hidden in the reeds.

Orange plantations

The Asseca walk through the valley however, is still very worthwhile. On the fertile lands alongside the riverbed, citrus fruit blooms abundantly, spreading a delicious smell all through the Asseca valley. The paths are well kept, and only after abundant rainfall, the crossing of the Rio Sequa will offer a challenge. We crossed the Rio Sequa, and kept right, finding a half hidden path leading steeply uphill about 100 meters stream-up. We passed a abandoned house, filled with graffiti and here´s only one track to follow, passing the former stairs towards Pego do Inferno, until the road turns into a paved one again. This road will lead you back to your car.

On hot days we don´t advise this walk because the Asseca vally offers hardly any shade.