4.6
(17)
231
riders
9
rides
Mountain biking around Oucidres, a village on the Chaves-Valpaços plateau, offers access to the diverse landscapes of Northern Portugal. The region is characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and granite formations, providing varied terrain for mountain bike trails. While Oucidres itself is known for its agricultural background, the surrounding Alto Tâmega Portugal area features a network of routes that traverse natural parks and river valleys. These trails often include significant elevation changes, reflecting the mountainous nature of the broader region.
…Last updated: August 22, 2026
5.0
(3)
40
riders
56.4km
03:42
270m
270m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
18
riders
48.6km
04:20
730m
730m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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11
riders
45.1km
04:08
720m
720m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
8
riders
51.3km
04:35
900m
900m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
10
riders
73.9km
06:41
1,330m
1,320m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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The Bridge of Trajan (often simply called the Roman Bridge) is, without a doubt, the most important monument in Chaves. It is worth visiting because it is not just an "old stone bridge"; it is a masterpiece of engineering that defines the city's identity. Here are the 4 main reasons why: 1. Walking on 2,000 Years of History This is one of the best-preserved Roman bridges in the entire Iberian Peninsula. It was built between the late 1st and early 2nd century AD, during the reign of Emperor Trajan. The Feeling: Crossing it on foot (cars are forbidden) means you are literally walking on the same stones as Roman legions, medieval merchants, and Napoleonic troops. It is an instant trip back in time. 2. Engineering that Defies Time It is worth looking closely at the structure to understand why it is still standing. The Tâmega River is known for its violent floods, yet the bridge has withstood them for two millennia. The Secret: If you go down to the riverbank, notice the cutwaters (the triangular structures at the base of the pillars). They were designed to "cut" the force of the water and prevent the bridge from collapsing. It is a live lesson in ancient architecture. 3. The Stones that "Speak" (Milestones) In the middle of the bridge, you will find two cylindrical stone columns (milestones) with Latin inscriptions. One of them is particularly important: the "Padrão dos Povos" (Standard of the Peoples). The inscription lists the 10 local tribes of the region (the "Aquiflavienses") who contributed to the construction of the bridge. It is a historical document carved in stone that has survived to this day. 4. The Photogenic Scenery The bridge connects the historic center to the Madalena neighborhood and is set within a beautiful public garden (Jardim do Tabolado). It is the perfect spot to watch the sunset, seeing the reflection of the arches in the water with the Castle of Chaves dominating the landscape high above. Visitor Tip: After crossing the bridge coming from the historic center, turn left and walk along the landscaped riverbanks. There are stepping stones (pedras poldras) nearby in the water that allow you to see the grandeur of Trajan's Bridge from an impressive low angle.
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The medieval castle At the time of the Christian Reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula, Chaves was initially taken from the Moors by Alfonso III of León (866-910), who ordered the reconstruction of its defenses. This original construction of the castle is attributed to Count Odoarius in the 9th century. In the first quarter of the 10th century, however, Chaves fell back under Moorish rule.
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everything around is beautiful to appreciate
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Tâmega and Corgo International Ecovia "Poldrado de Curalha - 1889. Designed by Engineer Augusto Xavier Teixeira, this granite bridge (poldras or walkway) is very well preserved and is used for people and animals to cross the river.
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The 140 metre-long Ponte Trajano (Trajan Bridge) in Chaves in the Trás-os-Montes region of north eastern Portugal dates from the reign of the Emperor Trajan (53-117) in the early second century AD. The Emperor Trajan was known as a great promoter of public works including the Trajan Forum and Trajan Column in Rome.
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The Roman Bridge of Chaves, also known as Trajan's Bridge, is located over the River Tâmega and was built between the end of the 1st century and the beginning of the 2nd century. Along with the development of the thermal baths, it constitutes one of the best Roman legacies of the ancient Águas Flávias, which still stands today, withstanding historic floods and the strong currents of the river. Approximately one hundred and fifty metres long and with a dozen visible arches, the works carried out in the 1930s covered some of the arches and others were still buried in the construction of the houses built there and overlooking the river.[citation needed] In 2008 it became a pedestrian bridge.
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This stone arch bridge is also called Trajan's Bridge.
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Committed enduro-type portion for mountain bikes
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There are 7 mountain bike routes available around Oucidres, offering a variety of experiences across the region's diverse landscapes.
The mountain bike trails around Oucidres are primarily moderate to difficult. There are 6 moderate routes and 1 difficult route, so riders should be prepared for challenging terrain and significant elevation changes.
The routes around Oucidres are generally rated as moderate to difficult, making them more suitable for experienced riders. There are no easy trails specifically designated as family-friendly in the immediate vicinity.
Mountain biking around Oucidres offers diverse landscapes characteristic of Northern Portugal, including rolling hills, deep valleys, and granite formations. You'll traverse plateau landscapes and river valleys, providing varied terrain and scenic views.
The mountain bike routes around Oucidres are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 15 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain and the opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty.
Yes, several routes pass by significant historical sites. For example, the Poldrado de Curalha – Ponte de Trajano loop from Chaves explores the area around the historic Trajan Bridge. Another route, the Ponte de Trajano – Castle of Santo Estêvão loop from Chaves, connects the Trajan Bridge with the Castle of Santo Estêvão.
The longest mountain bike trail is the Poldrado de Curalha – Keep Tower of Chaves Castle loop from Santa Cruz (Trindade), which spans 75.1 km and features significant elevation changes.
Yes, all the mountain bike routes listed for the Oucidres area are circular loops. Examples include the Palácio de Vidago – Poldrado de Curalha loop from Chaves and the Poldrado de Curalha loop from Chaves.
Northern Portugal, where Oucidres is located, benefits from a mild climate year-round, making it suitable for outdoor adventures like mountain biking in most seasons. However, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for riding.
Beyond historical sites, you can explore natural and cultural points of interest in the broader Chaves area. These include the Chaves Thermal Spring and the charming Chaves Old Town, which can be visited before or after your ride.
Yes, the Palácio de Vidago – Poldrado de Curalha loop from Chaves guides riders through the scenic countryside, passing by the historic Palácio de Vidago.


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