Gravel
For gravel enthusiasts, Melgaço is a true paradise on wheels. This area offers a vast network of cycling routes, with mountain roads, dirt tracks and forest paths perfect for exploring on a gravel bike. The demanding climbs, the descents with views and the more technical sections guarantee challenges for both training and leisure rides. Melgaço is also a reference destination for national and international cycling events, with support infrastructure such as bike wash areas, adequate signaling, rest areas and technical assistance along the routes.
Gravel Route – Lamas de Mouro (23,6 km | 893 m D+ Rating: Blue)
A challenging circular route in the heart of the Peneda-Gerês National Park, starting and ending in Lamas de Mouro, next to the emblematic PNPG Reception Center. From the first few kilometers, the route climbs towards Branda de Travassos, crossing mountain paths where nature reveals itself in all its splendor.
Along the route, cyclists are treated to sweeping views over the Mouro Valley and cross areas of great scenic value, such as the Batateiro plateau, marked by mountain vegetation and the unique tranquility of the mountains. With a cumulative elevation gain of 893 meters, this route is ideal for those seeking a demanding physical experience combined with direct contact with the authenticity and beauty of the landscapes of the Peneda-Gerês National Park.
Along the way, you can observe the region’s rich diversity of flora and fauna, with emblematic species such as the garrano, the roe deer or the golden eagle, as well as forests of oak, heather, broom and other native plants that define the natural and wild character of this protected area.
Starting Point and Arrival: Lamas de Mouro 42°03’04.0″N 8°11’58.3″W
Distance: 23,6 Km – circular
Rating: Blue
Máx Height:1286m
Min Height: 791m
Accumulated positive unevenness: 893m
Gravel Route – Lamas de Mouro (36 km | 1171 m D+ | Rating: Red)
A circular and demanding route, starting and ending in Lamas de Mouro, located in the heart of the Peneda-Gerês National Park.
From the first few kilometers, the route challenges cyclists with a long climb to Fiães, where the landscape is crowned by the majestic presence of the Fiães Monastery — an important historical and spiritual landmark of the region.
The route continues through Cavaleiro Alvo, offering panoramic views of Cubalhão and the green valleys that shape this mountainous territory.
Following mountain trails, the route crosses the Fitoiro and Travassos mountains, small agricultural and pastoral centers that keep alive the tradition and ancestral way of life of the mountain communities.
With a length of 36 km and 1,171 meters of total positive unevenness, this route is especially recommended for experienced gravel riders, who are looking for a technical and engaging challenge, in communion with nature and the heritage of the PNPG.
Along the route, it is possible to observe a rich biodiversity. The fauna includes species such as the garrano, wild boar, roe deer and various birds of prey, such as the golden eagle and kite. The flora is notable for the presence of oak forests, broom and heather, which beautify the landscape and reflect the unique ecological identity of this protected territory.
Starting Point and Arrival: Lamas de Mouro 42°02’20.7″N 8°11’45.0″W
Distance: 36km – Circular
Rating: Red
Max Height: 1148m
Min Height: 709m
Accumulated positive unevenness: 1171m
Gravel Route – Lamas de Mouro (42 km | 954 m D+ | Rating: Red)
This demanding circular route of 42 km, with a positive unevenness of 954 meters, starts in Lamas de Mouro, in the heart of the Peneda-Gerês National Park. From the first few kilometers, cyclists are led towards Castro Laboreiro, crossing the Portos area — a territory of rugged beauty and great natural value — and climbing to the Castro Laboreiro plateau, where there are impressive views over the dry border on the Spanish border.
The route continues towards Portelinha, alternating between high-altitude roads, ideal for cycling, and more technical trails that require attention and technique, providing a rich and varied experience both physically and in terms of scenery. The combination of challenging climbs and fast descents makes this route particularly attractive to gravel riders who enjoy direct contact with the mountains.
O regresso a Lamas de Mouro encerra esta jornada intensa pelo alto Minho, revelando a riqueza natural e cultural de uma das zonas mais emblemáticas do PNPG.
Ao longo do trajeto, é possível observar uma notável diversidade de fauna e flora. Entre os animais que habitam esta zona destacam-se o garrano, o corço, o javali, a raposa e diversas aves de rapina como o milhafre e a águia-real. A vegetação típica inclui carvalhais, giestais, urzais e vastos campos de altitude onde predominam as espécies autóctones, conferindo à paisagem um carácter selvagem e autêntico.
Starting Point and Arrival: Lamas de Mouro 42°03’04.0″N 8°11’58.3″W
Distance: 42 Km – Circular
Max Height: 1278m
Min Height: 856m
Accumulated positive unevenness: 954m
Gravel Route – Lamas de Mouro (84,3 km | 2928 m D+ | Rating: Black)
This circular gravel route, 84.3 km long and with a positive unevenness of 2,928 metres, is a real challenge for experienced cyclists looking for an immersive experience in the heart of the Peneda-Gerês National Park. Starting and ending in Lamas de Mouro, the route passes through some of the most emblematic places in the municipality of Melgaço and the surrounding mountains.
Shortly after the start, the route crosses the Travassos and Aveleira hills, living testaments to the region’s traditional agricultural and pastoral activities. It continues towards Parada do Monte and Cubalhão, offering wide views over the cliffs and valleys of the mountains, in a setting of imposing beauty.
Passing through São Paio, the route leads to Paderne, known as the “Heart of Alvarinho”, where the winemaking tradition meets the rural landscape. The route then passes through the village of Melgaço, an ideal stopping point for a moment of rest or refueling, before beginning the long and demanding climb to Fiães. From there, the challenge continues towards Castro Laboreiro, with its terraces, medieval bridges and remains of the fort, before returning to the starting point in Lamas de Mouro.
Along the route, cyclists have the opportunity to observe a great diversity of fauna and flora characteristic of the PNPG. Among the animals that inhabit these mountains are the garrano, the wild boar, the roe deer, the golden eagle and the Iberian wolf. The vegetation is dominated by oak forests, broom and heather, interspersed with marshes and areas of mountain scrubland, which contribute to the wild and authentic character of this protected region.
Starting Point and Arrival: Lamas de Mouro 42°03’04.0″N 8°11’58.3″W
Max Height: 1187m
Min Height: 43m
Accumulated positive unevenness: 2928m
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