Easy hikes and walks around Parada Do Monte

These are the ruins of a Romanesque castle with a walled enclosure around a central tower with a cistern, located on the top of an isolated hill at 1,033 meters (3,389 feet) above the Minho and Lima rivers. It has an oval plan oriented north-south. The main entrance is the Porta do Sol, which opens to the east, while the Gate of Traitors, the Porta do Sapo, is located at the other end. The exit is well-maintained and normal for its location.

The Cão de Castro Laboreiro (CCL) is a recognized rare dog breed. Its name comes from the Portuguese town of Castro Laboreiro. Like the Serra da Estrela Mountain Dog, the breed is said to be one of the oldest in Europe. This sculpture was erected above the town in its honor. The dogs are kept as guard dogs for livestock and on farms in the Castro Laboreiro region. They are also used to guard houses and farms. In its native region, it defends livestock, houses, and farms, among other things, against the wolf, which is still found in this area today. It is friendly towards its owner and family, but less obedient than many other working dogs. It is suspicious of strangers. The Cão de Castro Laboreiro needs an owner who treats it with respect and loving consistency. It is accustomed to making decisions and acting independently. https://www.vigoenfamilia.es/escultura-al-cao-de-castro-laboreiro/ In the region, you'll often encounter small, stray groups of this breed without any obvious supervision. There have never been any problems. Stop and approach them calmly!

Excellent restaurant with regional Portuguese dishes. Stunning views of the castle and the valley below.

To support their families, many men from Castro Laboreiro had to work far away as sailors or laborers. Their wives often waited longingly for their return. This is why they were said to have often dressed in mourning black and gazed down at the deep valley in the evenings. In the past, when the man emigrated, the Castro woman would wear a black cloak (“viúva do homem vivo”) to express her mourning.

Built on a granite hill over 1,000 metres above sea level, the castle dominates the Laboreiro River valley, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Its origins are ancient, probably dating back to Roman or pre-Roman times, but the current structure mainly reflects medieval modifications and extensions, particularly during the Reconquista and the formation of the Kingdom of Portugal. The castle, although now in ruins, still preserves its defensive walls, part of the watchtower and the main gate, elements that testify to its strategic importance in controlling the borders. It is a symbol of the history and resistance of the region, and its isolated and wild location adds to its charm.

Nice walk but certainly not easy and not flat. Lots of scrambling and climbing First part was a lot of climbing but doable. Descent after the castle was sometimes difficult

by bike very carefully!

Guaranteed fun, be prepared for the sometimes low temperatures