From Valley to Mountain: Landscape in Continuity

The short distance between the Minho River Valley, in Monção or Melgaço, and the Peneda-Gerês National Park reveals itself at every turn of the road. A pause to contemplate the villages of the Mouro Valley is a must: the discreet and genuine beauty of these towns prepares the mind for the grandeur that lies ahead.

Gateways to the Mountains and Entry into a Living Landscape

Entry into the National Park is through Lamas de Mouro, one of its official gates, where the majesty of nature inspires calm and serenity. Next, we head to the Aveleira and Santo António brandas, ancestral rustic constructions that transport us to a time when transhumance shaped life in these lands. The route itself is simply breathtaking.

Brandas, Transhumance and Lived Memory

We continue on to the brandas of Aveleira and Santo António, rustic ancestral buildings that take us back to a time when transhumance structured life in these parts. The route that takes us here is simply breathtaking, between hills, valleys and deep silences.

Castro Laboreiro: time, border and identity

On the way back along the same road, the ancient village of Castro Laboreiro offers a break in time. Between history and unique traditions, lunch - whether in a local restaurant or an outdoor picnic - allows you to soak up the region's unique character.

Mountain and the Sensitive Reading of Landscape

After your meal, glide through the majesty of the mountains sculpted by time. Explore significant places, discover curiosities and realise local traditions that continue to shape life in this landscape.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Peneda, set against a sublime backdrop, lifts the spirit and closes the route with an experience of full contemplation. On the way back to the starting point, you soak up the colours, shades and tones of the landscape, softened by the late afternoon light - memories that remain long after the walk has ended.