Roteiro dos Moinhos

A breathtaking panoramic view and a bit of early history on foot or by bike.

Take a short or long round trip on the back of the Serra de Louro. We’d recommend avoiding the midday heat — it’s most beautiful towards sunset anyway. Almost as lovely is that Pérola da Serra is just a few meters away. Check out All Trails for extensions and alternative routes as usual.

The path you’re about to embark on is easily 5000 years old. After the first few meters, it’s clear why: up here, you’re in the midst of the most fertile land with a 360° view of the entire region. And, of course, wind energy, as evidenced by the windmills. They are of Arab origin, and in the 12th century, the area was called Alcaria — a word for outlying farms. Unfortunately, there was a fire in 2021, but by now, the Julião bakery should be open again.

Soon, you’ll stumble upon the remains of the hill fortress Chibanes, a trading post from the third millennium BCE. The strong fortifications and corresponding finds suggest that Chibanes was a hub for trade, with processed copper being a significant commodity. For the Romans, it was at least a residential settlement. The information panels are somewhat helpful, but a little imagination will take you further.

Along the way, depending on the route, you’ll pass by wineries and farms. Some of them are rented out as training centers or are extremely expensive holiday resorts. If you’re interested, on the outskirts of Quinta do Anjo, visit the Casal do Pardo tombs (see link to Chibanes above): the four artificial caves were created with stone tools, and collective burials in caves were common throughout the country 4,000-5,000 years ago, serving as an alternative to the famous dolmen.