On the Sicó Outdoor Centre hiking trails, you will feel the wind in the mountains, the freshness in the pine forests and the scent of wildflowers in the countryside. You will also see traces of the past in the traditional windmills and the paths once used by the Romans! If the GR35 – Alvaiázere Grand Route invites you on an epic journey across the region’s peaks and valleys, then the smaller circular trails offer the perfect challenges for exploring this area: whether alone or with your family, as a bold adventurer or a contemplative walker.
Hiking
Trails
Sicó Outdoor Centre Hiking Trails
Discover your next adventure! On our interactive map, you can explore the network of hiking trails easily and intuitively by zooming in, searching by location or filtering by level of difficulty, distance and trail type.
Ansião Hiking Trails
On the Sicó Outdoor Centre Short Trails (PR), you can walk among Roman ruins, enchanted forests and farmland. The hardest part will be choosing the best hiking trails Ansião has to offer, as each one showcases the cultural and natural identity of the region.
Do you want to discover the soul of Ansião? Follow the Bonfim Trail, where Roman bridges and oak forest trails lead to the former pilgrimage site of Senhor do Bonfim. Alternatively, you can explore the Roman Trail, a network of hiking trails along ancient Roman roads that passes by the Ponte da Cal, a bridge linked to the legend of Queen Saint Isabel and the tradition of the “holy baths”.
Curious about traditional irrigation systems? The Picotas Trail shows you how water was drawn from wells and invites you to visit Olhos d’Água, the source of the River Nabão. And don’t forget to enjoy other landscapes steeped in history as you follow the Vento Trail to the Monumental Complex of Santiago da Guarda, with its medieval tower, Manueline palace and Roman ruins.
Last but not least, an experience surrounded by lush vegetation? Choose the Pinhais Trail, where the highlights are the ancient trees and inspiring rural scenery. Because in Ansião, each trail is a bridge between natural beauty and heritage that speaks of the past.
Trilhos Pedestres em Alvaiázere
On the slopes and valleys of Alvaiázere, the hidden Sicó Outdoor Centre Short Trails reveal the secrets of the region’s nature, history and geology. These hiking trails invite you to discover a living heritage of ancient olive trees, stone walls and villages with traditions that have stood the test of time.
Looking for ancient stories? Start with the Al-Baizir Trail, a route through the cultural and natural heritage of Alvaiázere, marked by Moors and monks. Then follow the Ramalhal Hiking Trail, where the dolmens of Rego da Murta will tell stories of ancient rituals.
Passionate about geology? Don’t miss the Megalápias Hiking Trail, an opportunity to walk through oak forests, discover the famous Megalapiás’ “Homem Velho” (Old Man) and climb the Serra de Alvaiázere, the highest point of the Sicó Massif, with breathtaking views.
Prefer lush natural scenery? Follow the Encantos do Vale da Mata hiking trail, surrounded by the sounds and aromas of the local vegetation. And if you enjoy hiking to the sound of running water, there is the Ribeira do Tordo Trail, ready to lead you to the source of the Olho do Tordo along trails dotted with old mills, fields of flowering watercress and tranquil landscapes.
Alvaiázere Grand Route and the Soul of the Serra
The GR35 – Alvaiázere Grand Route is the main hiking trail in the region, linking villages such as Alvaiázere, Ariques, Bofinho and Ramalhal along trails that cross mountain ridges, valleys and landscapes shaped by biodiversity and rural heritage. Along the way, hikers follow ancient Roman roads, pass through limestone pavements, riverside woodlands and ancient oak forests, discovering escarpments, olive groves and archaeological sites such as the Ramalhal megalithic complex. More than just a simple hiking path, this grand route invites a deeper discovery of the nature and culture of the Serra de Sicó.
Short trails for families
Would you like to explore nature as a family? The Sicó Outdoor Centre’s short and level hiking trails are the ideal choice! In addition to offering points of recreational and cultural interest, these routes, which are suitable for all ages, hold surprises at every turn, whether it’s a hidden windmill or an ancient bridge!
Challenging Hiking Trails
Are you one of the more active explorers? The Sicó Outdoor Centre has also prepared challenging short trails that will put your adventurous spirit to the test! These are longer hiking trails, with greater elevation gain and technical difficulty, that reward physical preparation with spectacular views for incredible selfies!
More Hiking Trails in the Sicó Outdoor Centre
Looking for a pilgrimage journey? A geology lesson? A cultural experience? A visit to local historical heritage? The Sicó Outdoor Centre offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all types of walkers, from pilgrimage routes to trails through karst landscapes and places rich in tradition. Find your style and discover a new way to walk!
Tips and Advice for Hikers
Equipment
For a comfortable and safe hike, bring suitable footwear, fresh water, sunscreen, a hat, a mobile phone with a charged battery and a small first aid kit.
Safety
Check the weather before leaving home and let someone know where you are going. When hiking, pay attention to signposts, follow directions, and stay on the trails.
Best Time of Year
With mild temperatures, spring and autumn are the best seasons to explore the hiking trails, but with a few extra precautions, you can enjoy hiking all year round.
Sustainability
Do not leave rubbish behind, do not pick plants or disturb the animals! Use the hiking trails to connect with nature in a responsible and sustainable way.
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