PR7 GDM PRD - Trilho da Carqueja

The PR7 GDM PRD - Carqueja Trail crosses the Banjas mountain range, connecting the rural centre of Melres with the quartzite ridges marked by the ancient exploitation of gold-bearing veins.

Along the route, old paths once used for carqueja collection and gold transportation reveal the history of this territory, where traces of Roman occupation remain, including fojos, banjas, galleries and vents associated with mining activity.

Along the trail, different perspectives over the surrounding landscape and the meander of the Douro River emerge, in a route marked by the memory of mining activity and the geological uniqueness of the Banjas mountain range.

Start / End: Igreja Matriz de Melres. Recommended season: year-round. Altitude: 14 m – 369 m. Accumulated elevation gain: 468 m.