The best cycling routes around Seara

Home and Access The Ecovia has multiple access points, with the connection between the city of Viana do Castelo and the town of Arcos de Valdevez being the main route.

Points of Interest Along the Ecovia Panoramic Views: The route offers breathtaking views of the Lima River, the agricultural fields ("veigas") and the rural landscape of Minho. Cultural Heritage: Along the way, you can find several points of interest, such as the Chapel of São João Baptista, the Monastery of Bravães (National Monument), the Fonte Santa (with sulphurous water) and the seven watermills of Gemieira, powered by a spectacular waterfall. Recreational Areas: There are several recreational areas, picnic parks and river beaches on the banks of the river.

Route Characteristics Length: Approximately 70 km in total, divided into several sub-routes (such as the Veigas Route, the Açudes Route, and the Laranja/Refóios Route). Usage: Ideal for hiking, running, and cycling (mountain bikes are suitable due to the terrain). Motorized vehicles are prohibited. Road: Mainly packed earth and consolidated gravel, with some wooden walkways in specific areas. Difficulty: Generally easy to medium difficulty, due to the gentle slope. Accessibility: Some parts of the route have wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking.

The Lima River Ecovia is an extensive pedestrian and cycling route that follows the banks of the Lima River in Alto Minho, Portugal. Stretching for approximately 70 kilometers, the ecovia crosses the municipalities of Viana do Castelo, Ponte de Lima, Ponte da Barca, and Arcos de Valdevez, offering scenic landscapes and a mostly flat route.

Viana do Castelo is a charming city in Northern Portugal, known for its rich maritime history, stunning architecture, and natural landscapes where the Lima River flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The city is considered a "Mecca of contemporary architecture" and an important cultural center.

Location Address: N13, Viana do Castelo, Portugal. Views: Offers great photo opportunities, both from Darque and Viana do Castelo.

Access and Current Use Mixed Use: The bridge remains fully operational, serving both road and rail transport. Hours: As an essential public thoroughfare for the city, the bridge is open 24 hours a day for traffic. Works: Attention: In November and December 2025, the bridge has been undergoing maintenance work, resulting in the closure of vehicular traffic during the night (generally from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM). It is recommended to check the exact times during your visit.

Main Features Design and Engineering: Inaugurated on June 30, 1878, it was the first road-rail bridge (with two superimposed decks) built in Portugal. Structure: It is 645 meters long, with the upper deck for car and pedestrian traffic, and the lower deck for the railway line (Minho Line). Heritage: The bridge is a beautiful example of 19th-century iron architecture and is considered a landmark of the city, being a candidate for classification as a National Monument.