Description
From the square in front of the Macedo do Mato Parish Council, the route heads west until it reaches the Vale de Crasto stream, which it follows downstream. Upon reaching a fork, take the left path, then take the right path that climbs through the olive grove. At the next clearing, you descend to the Borteal Stream, which you cross, skirting Cabeço da Barreira on the right and continuing toward Sanceriz. As you pass through the center of the village, you’ll see several spring-fed fountains, dovecotes, the pillory, and the parish church. It is also possible to take a detour to the Sanceriz watermill. Upon leaving the village, go around Cabeço da Forca on the right, descending to the Ribeira de Vilalva and following a rural path that runs alongside this stream toward Frieira (upstream). Upon crossing the Romanesque bridge, another watermill appears on your left, recently restored. Continuing straight ahead, you pass the chapel of St. John, the parish church, and the pillory of Friera.
Upon reaching the wayside cross, take the path on the left, which leads the hiker back to Macedo do Mato. Once again, we come upon Olival and the Vale de Crasto stream, which we now follow upstream.