Round Montesinho
Vinhais and Bragança linked through Montesinho
An inter-municipal route linking Vinhais to Bragança through the Montesinho Natural Park. The return journey passes through Mofreita and Moimenta, along a road that runs alongside the border with views of the Serra da Gamoneda, before returning to Vinhais via the Serra da Coroa. A long-distance cycle touring route with a distinct Trás-os-Montes character.
- Activity
- Estrada
- Distance
- 90,3 km
- Elevation gain
- 2285 m
- Elevation loss
- 2286 m
- Altitude
- 595–1137 m
- Estimated time
- 4h30
- Technical difficulty
- Hard (red)
- Route type
- Loop
- Best season
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Waymarked
- Yes
- Code
- CRD06
Centre: Vinhais
The Volta a Montesinho extends the network beyond the municipal boundary — a cross-municipal route that makes Bragança part of the journey. Link to Bragança. From Vinhais, the EN 103 follows the edge of the Natural Park all the way to Bragança. The city is crossed, exiting north to re-enter the park via Carragosa, Parâmio and Zeive — a route that encourages riders from both municipalities to share it. The border villages. Mofreita is the first village of Vinhais on the return, of traditional Trás-os-Montes architecture, stone houses and narrow streets; notable are the Igreja Matriz, dedicated to São Vicente (16th century), and the Chapel of Divino Senhor dos Milagres, a former women's retreat from 1793. The Serra da Gamoneda. The route continues to Moimenta, on a road running long kilometres beside the border, with wide views north: Spanish villages and the imposing Serra da Gamoneda (part of the Sierra de la Culebra). The return to Vinhais runs over the Serra da Coroa, via Salgueiros, Vilar de Ossos, Lagarelhos and Rio de Fornos.Quick answers
How long is the Round Montesinho route and how much climbing does it have?
90.3 km, with 2285 m of elevation gain. It is a loop route.
How long does the Round Montesinho route take?
About 4h30 (estimated time).
Is the Round Montesinho route difficult?
The technical difficulty is hard (red). Physical effort: 4 out of 5.
When is the best time to ride or walk the Round Montesinho route?
Recommended season: spring, summer, autumn.
Where does the Round Montesinho route start?
You can start at: Vinhais.
Is the Round Montesinho route waymarked?
Yes, the route is waymarked on the ground.
Where can I download the GPX for the Round Montesinho route?
The GPX track is available at https://naturasports.pt/percurso/volta-a-montesinho/export-gpx.