The best cycling routes around Cerdeira

The Ponte Real (or Ponte Velha) over the Ceira River is located in the village of Góis, being one of the historical ex-libris of the region. This medieval-style bridge, later reformed, is an important tourist attraction, crossing the Ceira River, a left-bank tributary of the Mondego River, which originates in the Serra do Açor. Location: Center of the village of Góis, facilitating pedestrian access. Characteristics: Imposing structure with stone arches, typical of crossing constructions from the monarchical period. Surroundings: The Ceira River, near this area, offers river beaches highly sought after during the summer, standing out for the quality of the water and tranquility. History: It is part of the built heritage from the Manueline/medieval period of the region.

Both Piódão and Foz d'Égua are accessible by car. But it's worth hiking the trail that connects them. It takes about 45 minutes, downhill from Piódão to Foz d'Égua (remember that the return is a slight climb). It's worth crossing the restored suspension bridge in Foz d'Égua before returning to Piódão. The Foz d'Égua pool is a popular spot for a dip in its very cold waters. Dipping your feet in the icy water of the stream is always very pleasant after a hike, immersing yourself in nature. I did it and recommend it. 👍🥾

Nestled along the banks of the Alva River, Côja is immersed in a green environment, surrounded by mountains and forests. The village is characterized by traditional architecture, a charming Roman bridge and a peaceful atmosphere.

Nestled in the Açor mountains, near Piódão, the river beach of Foz d’Égua is an enchanted corner that comes alive in the summer. Where the Piódão and Chãs d’Égua streams meet, a natural pool is formed, surrounded by rustic bridges, old mills and shale everywhere.

Piódão, the charming schist village with blue doors, is still home to around 170 inhabitants. It is said that the blue doors came about by chance (it was the only colour available) and ended up becoming a tradition. In the centre, next to the square, there is a small, lively café and a restaurant serving regional dishes. The car park is at the entrance to the village (there are around 50 spaces) and there are public toilets right in the centre, everything ready for a peaceful visit to this living postcard of the mountains.

In this elevated section, the trail follows the Alva Valley and reveals a breathtaking view. The landscape opens up in a big way and is simply stunning!

This section follows the Alva River Valley, between agricultural fields and forests, until reaching the stone bridge in Barril de Alva. The trail is dirt and requires some caution, but the serenity of the landscape and the murmur of the river make every pedal stroke worthwhile.

Hidden in the Açor mountains, near the historic village of Piódão, the river beach of Foz d’Égua is a small paradise, especially in summer. Where the Piódão and Chãs d’Égua streams meet, a body of water forms, surrounded by rustic bridges, old shale mills and rocks shaped by the current. The landscape is serene, but getting there is a bit of an adventure: a rough trail winds down to the water, crossing terraces and shale steps that make the arrival part of the experience.