# Meiral

> This route is the short version of the Ribeira de Ladrões: six kilometres around the lower part of the valley, with the stream always running alongside. It is not a shortcut, but a complete route, starting and finishing in Rio de Fornos and taking in both banks of the stream.

URL: https://naturasports.pt/en/percurso/meiral

- **Activity:** Percurso Pedestre
- **Distance:** 6.1 km
- **Elevation gain:** 213 m
- **Elevation loss:** 209 m
- **Altitude:** 679–843 m
- **Route type:** Loop
- **Best season:** Spring, Summer, Autumn
- **Code:** VNH_PPR05
- **Centre:** [Vinhais](https://naturasports.pt/en/centro/vinhais)
- **GPX:** https://naturasports.pt/percurso/meiral/export-gpx

**The Ribeira, short version**

This route is the short version of the Ribeira de Ladrões: six kilometres around the lower part of the valley, with the stream always by your side. It is not a shortcut, but a complete route, starting and finishing in Rio de Fornos and taking in both banks of the stream. The upper part of the valley is left out; everything that makes the stream worthwhile is included.

It’s the perfect choice for an afternoon, whether you’re travelling with children or simply want to experience the Montesinho Natural Park without spending the whole day there.

**Rio de Fornos**

The route is circular and begins and ends at the small picnic area at the entrance to Rio de Fornos, a village mentioned in the Inquirições of 1258. The route passes through the village streets and past the Chapel of St Peter, whose steps form a balcony overlooking the entire valley.

**The Ribeira de Ladrões**

Just past the last houses, the stream comes into view and stays with us all the way. The water flows between moss-covered stones, cascades down in small drops and widens into crystal-clear pools, flanked by marshes and alder trees on both sides. The route follows both banks, linked by the Meiral crossing, some 2.5 kilometres from the village.

**To go further**

Anyone who reaches the picnic area and still has energy left can take the PR5 · Ribeira de Ladrões trail from the same starting point, which climbs to the head of the valley and doubles the distance.

## Quick answers

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

6.1 km, with 213 m of elevation gain. It is a loop route.

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

Recommended season: spring, summer, autumn.

### Where does the Meiral route start?

The route belongs to the Vinhais centre.

### Is the Meiral route waymarked?

Yes, the route is waymarked on the ground.

### Where can I download the GPX for the Meiral route?

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