Caminhada da Mata da Margaraça

This circular walking trail offers an immersive journey through the heart of the Serra do Açor, a region rich in biodiversity, history, and culture. Spanning around eight kilometers, the route takes you through the Protected Landscape of Serra do Açor, where expert guides interpret the natural sanctuary’s unique botanical heritage and human history. Along the way, you’ll visit the Interpretation Centre, the Eira House museum dedicated to traditional rural life, the refuse oven used in ancient basketry, and the old mill that once powered the local economy. In the charming village of Pardieiros, witness the artisanal craft of wooden spoon making, a practice passed down through generations.

The trail also includes a visit to the breathtaking Fraga da Pena waterfall, one of the region’s most iconic natural landmarks. You’ll explore the Mata da Margaraça, a rare remnant of Portugal’s ancient native forest, home to oak and chestnut trees and traces of the prehistoric Laurissilva forest. With its rich flora, scenic beauty, and cultural depth, this walk reveals the perfect harmony between nature and tradition. Some sections of the trail are uneven and moderately steep, requiring a basic level of physical endurance.