MNC PR3 - Trilho da Cova da Moura walking

Monção 14.5 kms 05:00:00

Description

Set against the landscape of the Gadanha Valley, we set out from the Santuário dos Milagres in Cambeses, completed in 1602, pass through the rural village, and soon arrive at a young pine forest flanked by several vineyards, predominantly planted with Alvarinho and Trajadura grapes. We continue on our way and visit the Palácio da Brejoeira, a national monument since 1910. Built in the 19th century, more specifically in 1937, this property was sold to Francisco de Oliveira Paes, who bequeathed it to his heir and daughter, Maria Herminia Oliveira Paes. After leaving this historical legacy behind, we head to the Sendim River Recreation Park. Here, we can enjoy the river and its refreshing breeze. Just a few steps away, we find the medieval Sendim Bridge—a stone structure with two arches resting on a rocky outcrop over the Gadanha River.

We enter, once again, a wooded area with various oak and pine trees. Here we can find a barn oven used until about 40 years ago. In Pinheiros, we pass through the riverside park and can see the recreational area, the Parish Church, several mills, and the Medieval Bridge. This spot deserves a longer stop to enjoy the surroundings. The Gadanha River is, without a doubt, the centerpiece of this route. However, small places like Vila Nova, Fundevila, and Carregal stand out for their uniqueness and complement this route. Carregal is steeped in history, with its pillory and manor house, both dating from the 18th century and commissioned by the same patron.

We leave this part of history behind and move toward the end of this itinerary, making sure to stop by the Parish Church of Cambeses. We continue, and just a few meters away we can admire the sundial and, in the background, the bell tower of the Sanctuary of Milagres.