Vereda da Trompica

Length: 16 km Elevation: 550 m (1440 m down) Difficulty: 3/5 Technicality: 2/5 This trail is perfect for scenic views across the high mountains when the weather is good. Since it is not a PR trail, it is far less crowded than some of the more popular routes. I did this route without a car, so I took a taxi up to Fontes, ran the loop, and then made a long descent back down to Ribeira Brava, from where I took another taxi back home. If you are driving, you can simply do the loop from Fontes. The trail around Fontes is usually wide and in good condition. The descent to Ribeira Brava should not be underestimated, though. After a short stretch along the road, you reach Eira do Mourão, from where you have magnificent views over the Ribeira Brava valley. From there, a very long staircase leads down into the valley and past a beautiful waterfall.