AVV PR17 - Trilho da Peneda walking

Arcos de Valdevez 10.09 kms 04:00:00

Description

The “Peneda Trail” is a route certified by the National Register of Walking Trails (RNPP), classified as a Short Route (PR), and since it is a loop trail, it can be walked in either direction. However, it is recommended to start the route from the bus parking lot, located about 1 km from the Peneda church (the 2nd parking lot for those coming from Peneda, the 1st for those coming from Lamas de Mouro).

This route takes place in the heart of the Serra da Peneda, between two mountain villages : the hamlet of Peneda and Branda de Bouças dos Homens. Starting from the parking lot, we take the trail, following the markings that stand out against the landscape, which are yellow and red. Oxcarts pulled by Barrosã cattle used to travel along these paths, connecting those two villages. After 3 km and at an elevation of approximately 1,100 meters, the descent begins, with views of Branda de Bouça dos Homens along the way. Shortly after reaching the paved road, we take an old pilgrimage path dedicated to the image of Our Lady of Peneda. This is a path known as a “pé posto” (on foot) since it allows no other way to travel it. We then begin a new ascent to the foothills of Penameda and soon descend again to a small artificial lake, known locally as “Pântano,” located in the area of “Chã do Monte.” This reservoir served as a small hydroelectric plant years ago, supplying electricity to the village of Peneda. Crossing the lake, we follow a stream, and the descent becomes a true and daring adventure due to the steep slopes of the terrain. As we descend, we can see the church and the village of Peneda in the distance, as well as the Fraga da Meadinha on our left, a popular destination for countless local and foreign climbers. A little further down, we reach the trail’s end and from there take the road that will lead us, after about 1 km, to the arrival point, which coincides with the starting point—that is, the parking lot. If you are not accompanied by a guide, pay close attention to the markings and do not stray from the marked and signposted trail. Exercise extreme caution on foggy and/or snowy days, as the markings may be obscured.

Trail