The Mountains of Arada set to the south of Arouca have a particular charm, there's definitely something very magical about them, one might even say. They are way very close to Porto but also an altogether different kind of reality. This time around we've decided to do something off-city, off-route and quite literally with our boots on the ground for one of the most spectacular scenarios in a reasonable distance. The Inca Trail is named after the steps made out of great slabs of shale is quite the scenery with view to Montemuro and Freita and, weather permitting, even Porto.
But this is not a mountaineering trip. We’re just doing the spectacular section of the trail—something within 4 hours—and then we want to move to some viewpoints in the mountain and visit Arouca proper to learn about its heritage, history, and even legends.
Date: 8th of February (Saturday)
Location: we're setting off from Porto to make our way to Coelheira, S. Pedro do Sul (85km from Porto / 1h30 drive)
Distance: 8km / 5 miles.
Technical level for the hike: Given the shale steps/flagstones that make a large section of the trail, we do not recommend this as your first hike ever or if you have only done footpaths, as a certain acquaintance with uneven ground is of the essence. There are no sheer drops or overhangs, but it is on a hillside, so if you’re seriously affected by vertigo, you might want to pass it.
Stamina level: We only have a minor challenge at the beginning, as we need to cover 100 meters of altitude (320ft) over 0.9 km (0.5 miles), and then that’s it.
Type of Track: Circular, we’ll be sure to end exactly where we began.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION (do not skim over this section):
Price €65/ person (includes door-to-door transportation, drive to the location and back to your home, breakfast, plus guide fees and entrances at any paid sites
“I do have a car, thus wouldn’t need a ride, can I join? Yes, absolutely, we have special conditions, do enquire!
How do I sign up for the tour? Because seats are extremely limited, RSVP-ing alone is not enough. We'll have to insist on advance payment, and only that will secure a place. To this effect, send us a message, and we will tell you how to proceed. You can do it here directly, by Whatsapp at +351910430259, or by email at architectoursporto@gmail.com. As our capabilities are not limitless (quite the opposite), the first ones to do it will have ensured their presence.
Do we always go no matter what? If the weather turns foul, (extreme heat or rain) for safety reasons, we will not set out and you will be fully reimbursed.
What if I need to cancel? If you need to cancel, let me know up to 36 hours prior and you will be fully reimbursed.
To make it affordable, insurance is not included in this activity.
What to bring, of course, you’ll know your needs the best, but being reasonable always does the trick: water, sturdy footwear (tennis shoes won’t work), adequate clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and, of course, a good snack.
