Trilhos de Ludares

The “Trilho de Ludares” hiking trail begins at the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Esperança, in the parish of Quintela de Azurara. Following the “Caminho Largo,” it descends the mountain range and, after crossing the Ribeira de Ludares, reaches the old village of Moinhos do Coval. From there, the trail heads toward Quinta do Cavaleiro, crosses the Ribeira de Ludares again, passes by Quinta dos Linhares until reaching Quinta do Carril, where you can see an anthropomorphic grave. You now walk toward the center of the village until reaching the old Quintela bridge.Here you can stop to rest and recharge your energy. Cross Municipal Road 615 and head toward the site known as dos Freixos, where you’ll cross a small bridge, a true masterpiece of folk architecture. The trail heads north toward the soccer field (which you won’t reach) and then east toward Vilares.Walk toward Quinta da Tapada and the border of the municipality of Mangualde, where you’ll find a shepherd’s shelter and a small shrine further on. Pass through the area known as Safail and head toward the village of Quintela de Azurara. There, take in the imposing Casa de Quintela, then the Parish Church of São João Baptista further on, and continue toward Canelas.In this small village, you’ll make a slight detour to see a Manueline-style window. Returning to the previous path, you’ll climb the hill toward the parish’s old distillery and, passing through vineyards and orchards, continue until you reach the road that will take you to the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Esperança, where your walk began.