The idea for the “Two Rivers, Two Monasteries” trail came from a group of local associations and residents who, knowing well the heritage value of the two monasteries and the Arados hillfort, and who, as nature lovers, considered creating a hiking trail.

The purpose of the trail, combined with the City Council’s goals and activities in the area of tourism, enabled a partnership among various local entities in this project to implement “Two Rivers, Two Monasteries.” The development model for this project was designed to create synergies resulting from the joint efforts of various organizations that either operate within the route’s area of focus, have experience in hiking, or are dedicated to defending the interests of the region.

The lower part of the municipality of Marco de Canaveses is situated near two rivers, the Tâmega and the Douro. These rivers, in addition to their significant impact on the landscape, have influenced the growth and development of the population for centuries, and also played a role in the founding of a 10th-century monastery of the Canons Regular on the left bank of the Tâmega (Vila Boa do Bispo), and the founding of an 11th-century Benedictine monastery on the right bank of the Douro River (Alpendorada).

Objectives

• Promote the cultural and natural heritage of the municipality of Marco de Canaveses.
• Boost tourism in the lower part of the municipality, with a view to its economic and social development.
• To protect the natural and built heritage, specifically the national monument known as the Arados hillfort.
• To develop a project involving local groups, associations, and organizations.
• To create a new permanent cultural offering.
• To encourage the practice of healthy activities.

The entity promoting the walking trail is the Marco de Canaveses Municipal Council.