Project for the implementation, signposting and placement of information boards for the interpretation of the Escarpão Plateau Geosite

(work to begin in January 2021)

The Escarpão Plateau rises up to 130 m and is a unique morphological entity, sculpted by the combination of fluvial processes, karst processes and tectonic movement. It is crossed by the Ribeira de Quarteira and, on the sloping banks of this stream, we can see geological formations that bear witness to ancient environments, from the deep sea to coastal environments, containing the most complete geological section of the Upper Jurassic of the eastern Algarve (161.2 to 145.5 million years old), making it one of the 10 main geosites of the Loulé-Silves-Albufeira Geopark.

Bearing in mind the scientific, educational and tourist importance of the Escarpão Plateau as a geosite in the context of the Geopark, a pedestrian route was identified that runs along this plateau, presenting the visitor with 10 points of interest that deserved further study and the creation of the respective interpretive content.

Thus, the project to enhance the Escarpão Plateau Geosite involves signposting a pedestrian trail of around 8 km on the ground, with the placement of signposts, and its approval by the Portuguese Camping and Mountaineering Federation, as well as the placement of information plaques at places of interest, so that visitors, as well as being able to enjoy the scenic beauty and biodiversity there, can also understand the geological processes that led to the formation of the current Escarpão Plateau.