Caminho da Telhada

Set on a leveled platform—the oldest terrace along the Tagus River, formed about 1 million years ago—the Caminho da Telhada walking trail winds through an area of historical significance. Located in the village of Perais and offering beautiful panoramic views of the Tagus River, this trail is considered by many to be the most beautiful in Vila Velha de Ródão.

The trail showcases the use of rural paths, flanked by schist walls and featuring archaeological finds (a small burial mound and a wine press), and particular, a section of an important and ancient road that crossed the Tagus River and connected Barreira da Barca, Perais, to Lomba da Barca, in the municipality of Nisa. The choice of this location for crossing the Tagus may have been influenced by the steepness of the banks and the presence, on both banks, of small sandy beaches, thus facilitating the crossing.

Bypassing the fine sand dune, and immediately downstream, one can observe a vast group of rock outcrops carved into the bedrock, where boats were moored.

Pay close attention to the construction details of the walls flanking the old path and the road surface, which uses the well-known “carril” technique consisting of stacking vertical slabs of schist, just as was done in the construction of dams.

Upon reaching the top of Barreira da Barca, recharge your energy, take in the panoramic view, and follow the marked path toward Ribeiro das Ferraduras, so named for the horseshoe-shaped engravings carved into the rock. As you near the end of the route, we encourage you to visit the monumental holm oak, a natural monument that impresses with its size.

This route is suitable for families with children. Please note the total distance and, if necessary, shorten the route by taking a signposted detour. This route should be taken from October to June.