This short, circular trail begins and ends near the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Lapa. It is approximately 10 km long and takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete. It is accessible to everyone and can be enjoyed by people of all ages, with family or friends, at any time of year. It is a fairly exposed route. Along the way, it features several points of cultural and natural interest.

Access to the trail

Starting from the center of Vieira do Minho, take the EN 304 toward Mosteiro. Just outside the town, you will find a sign on the right for Anissó via the CM599; follow this direction for about 8 km. In Anissó, continue on to Soutelo. Once in Soutelo, turn right following the sign for Santuário da Sra da Lapa.

Route description

There are numerous and varied points of interest along this route, which combines nature, heritage, and culture in a single journey.

This route begins next to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Lapa, in the very heart of the Penamourinha hill. Built in 1694, this chapel stands out for its originality, as it was constructed inside an imposing rock formation. Next, via a footbridge, the trail begins an ascent through rocky formations to a viewpoint, where hikers can enjoy a panoramic view. As you descend, you will see more rock outcrops. After a walk of about 3 km, visitors will reach the Castro de Anissó, a majestic site that invites you to enjoy a privileged view over the Albufeira do Ermal. This is a fortified settlement situated at an altitude of about 732 meters that is believed to have been occupied between the early centuries B.C. and the Early Middle Ages. It occupies an area of approximately 4 hectares enclosed by three lines of walls built of regularly cut granite masonry.

In Anissó, you can walk along an ancient path featuring a mill, a water channel, and old structures designed to prevent the passage of large livestock, known as portelos.