Mesquita is small and quiet, which suits the day you’ve just had. You’ll arrive feeling content, because it was an easy stage. There’s just no guarantee of a bed here. Sort out your accommodation in advance, or choose a stop before or beyond it.
From Alcoutim you’ll walk for almost four hours, with a good 300 metres of climbing spread across the day. You’ll feel it in your legs, but it stays friendly. The pace is relaxed, and there’s plenty of room to talk or simply stay quiet. Look back along the way and you’ll see the Guadiana sinking away between the hills. Ahead of you lies the dry interior, one ridge after another.