The PR1 MRT leads to the Quedas de Água das Paredes. The linear hiking trail is about 7.1 kilometres long, including the return journey, and ends at the waterfalls. There, the water cascades down and forms small natural pools that invite you to take a refreshing dip on sunny days, provided local water and safety conditions allow it. Before setting out, check local trail information, and check local water and safety conditions before swimming; trail features and water conditions may change.
On Foot: Waterfalls, Mills and History
Along the PR1 MRT are the ruins of seven watermills. They show how important the Ribeira de Moinhos once was to agriculture and the livelihoods of local residents. In this way, the trail connects its waterfall destination with traces of the rural work that shaped the area.
The Caminho Natural da Espiritualidade, about 67 kilometres long, connects Coimbra with Santa Comba Dão and passes through the municipalities of Coimbra, Penacova and Mortágua. The Mortágua–Bussaco section of the Grande Rota do Bussaco has a different historical connection: it follows paths and passes through villages associated with the passage of Napoleonic troops through the area. The streams along this section offer the chance to experience a diverse range of plant and animal life.
Cycling and the Albufeira da Aguieira
The Ecovia do Mondego, about 40 kilometres long, passes through Mortágua. It follows the valley of the River Mondego and offers cycling on varied surfaces through diverse landscapes. Its length, valley route, surface and scenery give the cycling trail its distinctive character.
Trails along the shores of the Albufeira da Aguieira are suitable for cycling and hiking. The reservoir lies on the boundary between the municipalities of Mortágua in the Viseu District and Penacova in the Coimbra District. A boat trip is another option for exploring the reservoir’s outline; check whether it is available before making plans.
Rural Heritage and Pilgrimage Traditions
The Lagar de Varas de Vale de Mouro is a traditional olive oil press. It is considered unique in the municipality of Mortágua and is of great historical, cultural, economic and social value. Watermills are also part of this heritage, though their condition varies: the Moinho de Nossa Senhora da Ribeira da Marmeleira has been restored, is powered by a waterwheel and is considered fully operational. Check its condition locally before visiting.
The annual pilgrimage to Sra. do Bom Sucesso takes place in Aldeia da Tojeira and is one of the most important pilgrimages in the municipality of Mortágua. The Ermida de Nossa Senhora do Chão dos Calvos is the site of the municipality’s largest annual pilgrimage. If you would like to plan your trip around one of these traditions, check the dates in advance.
Views Across the Valley
The Moinho de Sula offers an especially good view over the Mortágua valley. Along with the streams and diverse plant and animal life on the Mortágua–Bussaco section, it reveals another side of the landscape: from a single viewpoint to wildlife watching along a trail.
Discover more destinations: Armamar, Quinta Dos Pisões, Mangualde, Reriz, Vila Maior, Coval, Tabuaço, Quintela
Back to the main travel overview: Viseu.
