Caminho de Xisto de Pampilhosa da Serra - Rota do Rio Unhais

A linear trail that begins near the river beach at the Santa Luzia Dam and continues toward the dam’s embankment—one of the oldest in Portugal. Opened in 1942, it is 76 meters high and has a crown length of 115 meters.

On the way up, the trail passes by the Chapel of Santa Luzia and the lookout point, where you can enjoy magnificent views of the dam and the Santa Luzia reservoir. On the way down, the trail passes north of the village of Vale Grande. Here, you can admire the landscape of the imposing quartzite ridges that support the Santa Luzia Dam . Continuing along the trails to the village of Cabril, known for its narrow streets and unique architecture, lose yourself here in the vastness of the horizon. The trail then continues toward Foz do Ribeiro. In this village, the use of schist in architecture is clearly evident; this stone is present throughout its buildings, constructed using the ancestral art of layering.

The Unhais River will be almost constantly visible, and you’ll cross over to its left bank. Following the trails, you’ll encounter a wild landscape where the silence is broken only by the sound of the river’s flowing water and the chirping of birds. Here, you’ll find an unspoiled view, with few traces of civilization nearby, until you reach the village of Ereira. From this point, the route follows a levada, which leads you to Pampilhosa da Serra, in the Unhais River valley, with extraordinary scenery. Here, you’ll still find remnants of a few mills that once ground the corn and rye harvested from the river’s fertile slopes. These slopes were heavily used for growing grains and vegetables. Upon When you arrive in Pampilhosa da Serra, be sure to visit the river beach, located in the center of town. It’s the ideal spot for a refreshing swim and for strolling. Also visit the Tourist Office, the Parish Church, and the Municipal Museum.