Rota dos Caleiros

This route begins at the base of Caramulinho, the spot where the mountain range reaches its highest point at 1,070 m, and from which you can take in some of the most breathtaking views of the Serra do Caramulo.
From here, the trail follows a wide road that, on one side, cuts through the rocky landscape, and on the other, winds through the mountain pastures, highlighting the tradition of shepherding and farming in these lands with a harsh climate, where the furrowed granite bears witness to the passage of animal-drawn carts, and where even today, the air is pure and healthy.
Upon reaching the paved road, walk a few meters until you reach the paths that follow the route of the old water channels that ensured the supply of water to the villages, and from there continue toward Jueus. Before reaching this typical mountain village, you’ll pass two mills, and right at the entrance you can see the village chapel. From the churchyard, you can see what remains of the Roman road and the ruins of the houses that once formed another village, now uninhabited—Carvalhal.
The hike now heads toward Pedrógão, where we can once again appreciate the uniqueness of the landscape, full of rock formations that, in each person’s imagination, take on the most diverse meanings. Here, the Equilíbrio Rock stands out.
Further on, a new aqueduct appears, this time built along a granite wall, displaying the precision and ingenuity that made it possible to bring water from the highest points of the mountain range to serve the population—for irrigating their fields, water their animals, and also for household chores .
From here on, you’ll cover the final meters of a route focused more on connecting with nature and the natural beauty of a place that retains great tranquility and authenticity. All that remains is to return to the starting point by following the mountain trails, passing by one of the many wind turbines that are already leaving their mark on the landscape of Caramulo, heading toward Caramulinho.