The best running trails around Castro Daire

This small suspension bridge can be used together with the large suspension bridge Arouca 516 or the stone bridge in Espuinca for a shortened circular hike along the Paiva Walkway.

From the wooden viewpoint, the view is breathtaking: down below, the Varosa River tears through the rock, passing under the enigmatic Devil's Bridge, surrounded by terraces that climb the slopes. Here, the walkways are your allies, as they soften a trail that would otherwise be a pure technical challenge, full of loose rocks and tight bends. A treat for those who enjoy running with excitement and scenery in between.

At the top of Alvarenga, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mountain rests in silence, surrounded by a picnic area and a breathtaking view. On the 8th of September, this serene corner comes to life with the pilgrimage in honour of the patron saint, when faith and celebration come together. It is easy to get there, even by car, but if you go running, it is a different experience: the terrain invites you to take a light step, and the landscape takes care of the rest.

On the vast plateaus of Montemuro, time can be seen in stone. Between moss-covered mounds, solitary menhirs and ancient sacred circles, the landscape tells stories that date back to prehistoric times. Near the wind farm, this ancient presence lives on. The Marco da Jogada and the tombs next to the chapel of São Pedro do Campo are just some of the landmarks that unite past and present.

This small suspended walkway appears discreetly along the wooden path that leads to the imposing 516 Arouca bridge. Here, you cross the Paiva River in a more intimate and serene way, feeling the water flowing below while the sounds of nature surround you. A kind of charming appetizer before the great spectacle of the main crossing.

Gola do Salto is one of the most impressive waterfalls on the Paiva River — a narrow gorge where the river roars with force. It is located next to the Espiunca bridge, where a suspended viewpoint offers you a privileged view and a natural concert with the sound of the waters echoing beneath your feet. The walkway that follows this landscape makes the route comfortable and accessible, even on naturally rocky and uneven terrain.

High up in Alvarenga, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Mount offers a peaceful retreat, with a picnic area and stunning views of the region. Every September 8, devotion takes over the place for the festival in honor of Our Lady of the Mount. The sanctuary is easily accessible, and can even be reached by car.

On the imposing plateaus of Montemuro, the landscape bears traces of human presence over the centuries. Here, among the first stone constructions in the region, there are prehistoric tombs, solitary menhirs and ancient sacred sites, such as cromlechs. Here, near the wind farm, these traces of the past still echo. The Marco da Jogada and several mounds near the chapel of São Pedro do Campo are testament to this heritage. Interestingly, the sacred remains in these heights, where modern chapels stand not far from these ancient necropolises.