Path Assessment. Case Study: "PR1 – (Rio Maior) – Marinhas de Sal" in the Natural Park of Serras de Aire e Candeeiros

Abstract

The growing demand for the practice of signposted walking routes (Pedestrianism) is a reality that deserves to be studied. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the pedestrian route PR1 (Rio Maior) - Marinhas de Sal, integrated in the Natural Park of Serras de Aire e Candeeiros (PNSAC), is one of the oldest and most charismatic routes of the "Estremadura Limestone Massif", lacking an updated and innovative technical and professional evaluation. Thus, from a methodological point of view, the "Information and Evaluation Method for Pedestrian Routes" (MIA_PP) was used in 2022, using 42 Nature Sports monitors (average age = 21.8 years; gender: 62% male / 38% female; experience level = 3.8 medium/good; physical condition level = 3.9 medium/good. Main results: i) Circular route; ii) Length of 3430m; iii) Average duration of 1h30; iv) Level of difficulty "low", considering the unevenness (Ac.+ = 111m), slope (between 5% and 10%), perception of effort (Borg Scale. =3.9), easy progression (dirt and firm ground), external load (very light: up to 5% of body weight), type of vegetation (little dense), transposition of obstacles (easy), v) Level of tourist interest (10 POIs = M.Good); Recommended seasons: spring, summer and autumn. This type of evaluation allows the selection of a route according to the recipients and the objectives to be achieved, also allowing nature sports technicians to improve and adapt the planning of this activity, avoiding dissatisfaction and accidents.