The best walks and hikes around Milhazes
4.2
(75)
418
hikers
26
hikes
Hiking around Milhazes, a region within the municipality of Barcelos, Portugal, is characterized by its varied terrain, including rural paths, forest tracks, and rocky outcrops. The area is dominated by Monte de Nossa Senhora da Franqueira, a prominent hill offering panoramic views of the Cávado River and surrounding landscapes. Dense woodlands, featuring oaks, cork oaks, and pine trees, are common throughout the hiking trails. The landscape also includes historical and cultural landmarks such as the ruins of Faria Castle.
Best…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4.3
(3)
29
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
20
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
(5)
10
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
3.74km
00:57
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
7
hikers
8.26km
02:06
30m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The church is open for visitation and prayer most days, with specific times for Masses. Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00–12:00 and 15:00–19:30. Mass Times (subject to change, please check the official website): Tuesday: 7:00 PM. Thursday: 7:00 PM. Saturday: 5:30 PM. Sunday: 11:00 AM.
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The church was built in the 14th century in a transitional style between Romanesque and Gothic, on the foundations of an earlier 11th-century church. Main Features: Style: Transitional Gothic and Romanesque, with Renaissance and Baroque additions throughout the centuries. Interior: It has three naves, notably featuring 14 blue and white tile panels that cover much of the walls, dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. Notable Elements: The chancel vault is a Manueline work (early 16th century), and the main façade features a Neo-Gothic rose window, the result of a 20th-century restoration. Heritage: The church houses notable altarpieces and funerary monuments of important families, such as the Pinheiro family. The Parish Church of Santa Maria de Barcelos is a point of historical and architectural interest for tourists and pilgrims traveling the Camino de Santiago.
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The Parish Church of Santa Maria de Barcelos, also known as the Collegiate Church, is the main religious temple in the city of Barcelos and a National Monument of Portugal.
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Infrastructure and Accessibility Apúlia Beach has good support infrastructure, which earned it the Blue Flag and the Five Star Regions award, recognizing its quality and safety. Access: It has parking (accessible for wheelchairs), public restrooms (WC) and showers. Services: It offers tent rentals, surveillance with first aid during the bathing season and family restaurants nearby with fair prices.
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Atmosphere: The beach maintains a wild and tranquil atmosphere, even during the summer, making it a popular spot for walks, swimming (although the water is cold, typical of northern Portugal), and enjoying spectacular sunsets. Water Sports: Due to the constant winds, especially between May and September, it is an ideal location for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paragliding. Local Tradition: In the past, the beach was a traditional fishing area where seaweed (sargassum) was collected to fertilize agricultural fields. This heritage is still visible in the local community and gastronomy.
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Windmills: The most iconic feature of the beach is the approximately ten traditional windmills scattered along the coastline, once used to grind corn and now converted into private holiday homes. Natural Beauty: Integrated into the North Coast Natural Park, the beach has an extensive sandy area, well-preserved dunes and native vegetation, accessible by wooden walkways that protect the ecosystem.
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Apúlia Beach is one of the most picturesque and distinctive beaches in northern Portugal, located in the municipality of Esposende, district of Braga. It is a destination that combines natural beauty with a rustic touch, and is famous for its old windmills and preserved dunes.
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Old windmills on a dike. A beach on the ocean side. Nice area, even though today wasn't beach weather.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails around Milhazes?
The hiking trails around Milhazes primarily feature varied terrain, including rural paths, forest tracks, and some rocky outcrops. Many routes traverse dense woodlands with oaks, cork oaks, and pine trees, especially on the slopes of Monte de Nossa Senhora da Franqueira.
Are there any easy hiking routes suitable for beginners in Milhazes?
Yes, Milhazes offers several easy hiking routes. For instance, the Barcelos Medieval Bridge – Barcelos Rooster statue loop from Barcelos is an easy 4.3 km trail that takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes, leading through urban and historical areas. Another easy option is the Apúlia North Beach – Apúlia Windmills loop from Apúlia, a 3.7 km route.
What historical or cultural landmarks can I see while hiking in Milhazes?
Milhazes is rich in historical and cultural heritage. While hiking, you might encounter the ruins of Faria Castle, the Convent of Calvário do Bom Jesus da Franqueira, and the Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Franqueira. The area also features sections of the Medieval Path to Santiago, a Via Sacra, and an Escadório. In nearby Barcelos, you can visit the Barcelos Medieval Bridge and the iconic Barcelos Rooster statue.
Are there any circular hiking routes available in Milhazes?
Yes, many of the hiking routes in Milhazes are circular. A notable example is the PR6 BCL – No Trilho do Monte da Franqueira, which is a 12 km circular route. From the komoot selection, you can find options like the Fão Bridge – Apúlia Windmills loop from Apúlia, a 11.8 km moderate trail, or the Idyllic Small Waterfalls – Square After Steep Climb loop from Vilar do Monte.
Can I find trails with waterfalls in the Milhazes area?
Yes, there are trails that lead to waterfalls. The Idyllic Small Waterfalls – Square After Steep Climb loop from Vilar do Monte is a moderate 8.2 km path that includes significant elevation gain and leads to small waterfalls, offering a refreshing natural feature along the way.
What kind of views can I expect from the hiking trails in Milhazes?
Many trails, especially those on Monte de Nossa Senhora da Franqueira, offer breathtaking panoramic views. You can see from the maritime coast of Esposende to Póvoa de Varzim, the final course of the Cávado River, and a fantastic view of Barcelos and its surroundings. On clear days, you might even spot Monte do Sameiro, Bom Jesus in Braga, and the Gerês mountains to the east.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Milhazes?
The hiking routes in Milhazes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 70 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the dense woodlands, and the panoramic viewpoints, noting the options available for different ability levels.
Are there any coastal hiking options near Milhazes?
Yes, while Milhazes itself is inland, some routes in the broader region offer coastal experiences. For example, the Beach walk from Ofir to Apulia – Apúlia Windmills loop from Apúlia is a moderate 9.3 km hike that provides coastal views and passes by windmills.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
The dense woodlands, particularly around Monte da Franqueira, are home to various wildlife. Hikers may spot European rabbits, foxes, and different bird species, especially in the quieter, forested sections of the trails.
How many hiking trails are available in the Milhazes area?
There are over 25 hiking trails available around Milhazes, offering a range of options from easy walks to more moderate ascents. These routes allow you to explore the region's diverse landscapes and historical sites.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest near the start of the trails?
Depending on the trail, you might find attractions nearby. For instance, routes starting near Barcelos can lead you to the Barcelos city centre, the Barcelos Medieval Bridge, and the Barcelos Rooster statue. Trails closer to the coast might be near the Fão Bridge or the Apúlia Church.
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