According to Postal, in the Algarve, there is a scenario that has gained worldwide fame, particularly among the Chinese: the "river of the Blue Dragon". This almost poetic name refers to the Odeleite stream, whose serpentine shape, seen from the sky, resembles a majestic dragon.

The popularity of this landscape emerged in 2015, when an aerial photograph of the Odeleite dam reservoir went viral on the internet, according to Visit Portugal, cites Postal. The image was initially shared on Reddit and later widely circulated on the Chinese social network Sina Weibo. The shape of the river has aroused great interest, especially among the Chinese public, where the dragon is a symbol of strength, power and good luck.

Geographically, the Odeleite stream is a tributary of the right bank of the Guadiana River. It rises in the Serra do Caldeirão, at an altitude of 463 metres, and crosses the municipalities of Tavira and Castro Marim before flowing into the Guadiana. Its sinuous course is due to natural geomorphological processes, in which the erosion of the concave margins and the deposition of sediments on the convex margins create sharp curves, known as meanders.

The beauty of this river lies in the contrast between the deep blue of the waters and the green of the surrounding vegetation, forming a natural picture of great visual impact. The reflection of sunlight intensifies these colors, creating a magical effect that attracts visitors and photographers from all over the world.

The name "Odeleite" originates from the Arabic expression "wâdî layt", which means "river of the eloquent", possibly in honor of some local historical figure. This region, marked by the Arab presence during the Middle Ages, keeps memories of this period not only in the name, but also in some traditions and buildings.

The village of Odeleite, located next to the dam, has a rich historical heritage. Among the points of interest, the Church, built in 1534, stands out, which reveals architectural traces of past eras. In addition, the region is home to Roman archaeological remains and ancient water and wind mills, testimonies of a rural life that persists to this day.