# Ciradelha Trail

> One of the oldest walking routes in the area starts in the centre of Vinhais and climbs up to Alto da Ciradelha, where the protohistoric hill fort and the viewpoint offer views across the municipality. It passes by the Baloiço da Chouriça and returns to the village next to the castle.

URL: https://naturasports.pt/en/percurso/caminho-da-ciradelha

- **Activity:** Percurso Pedestre
- **Distance:** 9.8 km
- **Elevation gain:** 384 m
- **Elevation loss:** 375 m
- **Altitude:** 674–941 m
- **Estimated time:** 3h
- **Route type:** Loop
- **Best season:** Spring, Summer, Autumn
- **Code:** VNH_PPR03
- **Centre:** [Vinhais](https://naturasports.pt/en/centro/vinhais)
- **GPX:** https://naturasports.pt/percurso/caminho-da-ciradelha/export-gpx

A historic route starting in the town and climbing the mountain that protects it. The interest lies in the Alto da Ciradelha, the remains of the Ciradelha hillfort and the recent Baloiço da Chouriça swing, both with privileged views over Vinhais and the mountains to the south. Almost half the route is on road, due to the limited path network, but the destination rewards.

Like other hillforts of the region, the Ciradelha hillfort would have been walled, with round stone dwellings; excavations have revealed pottery, tools and adornments — a testament to the proto-historic settlement of Trás-os-Montes and to the town's origins. From the hillfort, a single-track leads to the Baloiço da Chouriça (a nod to "Vinhais, capital of smoked sausage"). The return runs by pleasant paths, entering from the east beside the castle, whose visit is suggested.

## Quick answers

### How long is the Ciradelha Trail route and how much climbing does it have?

9.8 km, with 384 m of elevation gain. It is a loop route.

### How long does the Ciradelha Trail route take?

About 3h (estimated time).

### When is the best time to ride or walk the Ciradelha Trail route?

Recommended season: spring, summer, autumn.

### Where does the Ciradelha Trail route start?

The route belongs to the Vinhais centre.

### Is the Ciradelha Trail route waymarked?

Yes, the route is waymarked on the ground.

### Where can I download the GPX for the Ciradelha Trail route?

The GPX track is available at https://naturasports.pt/percurso/caminho-da-ciradelha/export-gpx.