The Coal Route, also known as the Ecopath of Minas da Bezerra, is a pedestrian trail located in Porto de Mós, in the district of Leiria. It is a small circular route with a distance of 11 km, offering a somewhat challenging hiking experience, classified as level III in terms of difficulty. The average duration of this hike is approximately 3 hours. This route got its name due to its historical connection with the coal mining in the old Minas da Bezerra. In the early 20th century, a railway line was built to transport the extracted ore from the mines. Nowadays, the path of this former railway line has been transformed into an ecopath, which can be traversed on foot or by bicycle. The Coal Route provides a fascinating hike, where you can appreciate a rich diversity of fauna and flora along the way. It is an excellent option for those who wish to enjoy the beauty of the mountainous landscape without having to tackle complicated and irregular trails. Along the route, several observation points have been created, allowing hikers to admire the local wildlife. At a certain point, the landscape undergoes a transformation, and the trail goes between rock walls that were excavated to allow the passage of the railway line into the tunnel. In this part of the route, hikers can experience a unique journey as they cross through this passage sculpted in the rock. In the lower part of the route, you will find the Cabana do Elias, a refuge located in the middle of an oak forest. It is the perfect place to recharge and enjoy the unmistakable sounds of the surrounding fauna and flora. Note: There is an additional variant, the PR6.1 trail, which extends for about 2 km and connects with the PR8 - Aljubarrota Battle Route. This variant is a suggestion for those who wish to extend the hike and explore more of the region.
Recommended season: All year round (during the summer, take precautions against high temperatures; during periods of heavy rainfall, take precautions against slippery floors) Elevation: min. 120 m, max. 386 m
Type: Short-Distance Path Loop
Distance: 11
Difficulty: Moderate (level 3)
GPS Coordinates: 39°35'54.5"N 8°50'14.0"W