The Percurso Pedestre das Papas is a circular trail that starts and ends in the village of Samão, in the northeasternmost part of the municipality. With a length of around 13.5 km and a medium difficulty level, it develops mostly across a borderland plateau, where Minho and Trás-os-Montes influences blend, noticeable both in the landscape and in the scents of the surrounding vegetation. Along the route, there are several sections highly exposed to sun and wind, so proper water management and sun protection are recommended, especially during warmer months. In return, the wide-open scenery provides extensive views and a constant sense of immersion in nature. The natural heritage is one of the highlights of this trail. Pine forests dominate the landscape, mainly composed of maritime pine, accompanied by extensive areas of broom and heather, as well as mountain pastures. In more specific areas, species such as birch, spruce, Chamaecyparis, and rowan can also be found. Wildlife diversity is high, with the possibility of spotting roe deer, wild boar, foxes and rabbits, as well as several diurnal and nocturnal birds of prey, including kites, common buzzards and owls. In more remote areas, this is also the territory of the Iberian wolf. From a geological perspective, the trail is particularly interesting due to the alternation between schist and granite, which is characteristic of this region. From the Hercynian granites, around 280 million years old, visible near Samão and Alto da Mossa, to the black schists and quartzites of Silurian age found between Viduais and the Antas, the route offers a true journey through the geological history of the area, also reflected in the traditional architecture of the villages. The cultural component is strongly linked to the villages crossed along the way. Samão and Gondães stand out for the Festa das Papas, celebrated on January 20th, a centuries-old tradition associated with Saint Sebastian, marked by food sharing and a strong community spirit. In Uz, formerly known as Casal da Urzeira, it is still possible to find remnants of stone houses with thatched roofs, a communal oven, and a landscape where traditional agriculture remains an integral part of village life. This trail is an excellent choice for those looking for a varied route combining nature, open landscapes, geological interest, and strong cultural identity, ideal for a demanding yet rewarding hike, far from heavily urbanised areas.
Start / End: Samão. Elevation: min. 735 m, max. 935 m
Type: Short Trail (PR) Loop
Distance: 13.5
Difficulty: Moderate (level 3)
GPS Coordinates: 41°34'14.2"N 7°51'43.6"W