The best walks and hikes around Barril De Alva

Bridge built over the Cavalos River, with a deck approximately 50 m long and 3 m wide. It probably forms part of the same road link as the Roman road of Pedra da Sé, serving as a connection between the Roman civitas of Bobadela and that of Viseu. It has only one arch with a perfect semicircular span, and the pavement that forms part of the deck is the result of intervention after the time of construction. It has been classified as a Property of Public Interest (IIP) since 1990, by Decree No. 163 of July 17, 1990.

Just after this it had grown over. I went back.

Small but very pleasant river beach (without sand) on the course of the Rio de Cavalos.

The Roman Bridge of Sumes, with its round arch, is a stone masonry structure measuring approximately 6.4 metres. It stands over the Cavalos River, in a natural setting, punctuated by enormous granite rocks and crisscrossed by dirt paths. This is where the fantastic Trilho dos Gaios begins (or ends), winding along the Cavalos River between several waterfalls and lush vegetation.

Due to the steep slope of this region, the route moves away from the river and follows old rural paths, where stone steps mark the ascent. The route requires caution, especially when crossing areas where the water has carved its own path in the rock. At the top of the ridge, the reward is a breathtaking view over the valley. In the distance, Benfeita stands out, one of the "white villages" of the network of schist villages, nestled on the edge of the protected landscape of the Serra do Açor.

The Roman Bridge of Sumes stands over the River des Chevaliers, shrouded in mystery. Although its foundations appear to be Roman, the exact date of its construction remains uncertain. An inscription reading "80 AD" found on a nearby wall suggests its origin, but some historians believe it refers to an ancient spring. In the surrounding area, traces of medieval paving can still be seen. Regardless of the bridge's uncertain age, it is classified as a Property of Public Interest, having witnessed centuries of history.

In summer, the river beach of Vale de Gaios becomes a little paradise for those looking to cool off. Its crystal-clear water, formed by the Cavalos River, a tributary of the Mondego, invites you to take a refreshing dip and spend long moments in the sun. On hot days, there is no better place to enjoy nature and recharge your batteries!

The colourful walkways of the Trilho dos Gaios start at the river beach of Vale de Gaios and lead you to the ancient Roman Bridge of Sumes. Along the way, you will pass by the winding banks of the Cavalos River, a wild tributary of the Mondego, which hides among the lush vegetation and moss-covered rocks, as if it were something out of a fairy tale. In some parts, it disappears completely under gigantic blocks of granite, with only the gentle murmur of the water revealing its presence.