Electric or non-electric bike tours of up to 4 hours to discover the Lima and Vez rivers and their culture.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
EBIKE KTM MACINA or NON-ELECTRIC TREK BIKE
Discovering the dams of the Lima Valley SELF-GUIDED (35 km, 3h30)
POINTS OF INTEREST Lima River Dams, connecting the historic town centres, running along the right and left banks of the Lima River and part of the right bank of the Vez River, always on a greenway, Foz do Rio Vez, water mills of Ribeira, Medieval bridges of Ponte de Lima and Ponte da Barca
Start of activity: Bravães Kayak Park, 9:00 am or 2:00 pm (15 min drive from Peneda Ecofarm)
The greenway crosses an area of great natural beauty, with diverse landscapes ranging from agricultural fields to forests and mountainous areas. The route was designed to allow access to the main points of interest, such as the dams, riverside towns and the rich vegetation that characterises this region. This is a place of great natural beauty and ecological importance, where the waters of the Vez River flow into the Lima River.
The «water mills of Ribeira» are an important part of the rural heritage of the Arcos de Valdevez region, where the tradition of grain milling has a long history. Located on the banks of the Vez River, these water mills have been an essential part of local life for centuries, harnessing the force of the current to grind cereals and produce flour.
Ponte de Lima is one of the oldest towns in Portugal and its famous medieval bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the region. The Ponte de Lima Medieval Bridge was built between the 14th and 15th centuries and spans the Lima River. This historically important bridge has 24 arches and is an impressive example of medieval architecture. Over the years, the bridge has been restored and preserved, maintaining its original beauty.
The Ponte da Barca Medieval Bridge is another notable example of a medieval bridge in the region, located over the Lima River. This bridge also dates back to the Middle Ages and is made up of several stone arches. Its construction is of great historical importance, as it allowed people to cross the river, facilitating trade and the transport of people between regions.
After passing Ponte da Barca, the route follows the right bank of the Lima River, passing through green fields and small villages. Here, you begin to feel the transition to a more urban area as you approach Arcos de Valdevez, a historic town rich in heritage.
After exploring Arcos de Valdevez, you return along the left bank of the Lima River, which offers different views of the city and the surrounding nature. This route is ideal for those who want a mix of nature, history and culture in a single trip.
Circular route along the ecovia – Ponte de Lima SELF-GUIDED (2h30)
Start of activity: Adventure Centre (Quinta de Pentieiros), 9:00 am or 2:00 pm
Following the right bank of the River Lima, the route is marked by the proximity of the river and some small villages, which provide a true immersion in the rural life of the region. Passing through agricultural areas, the route allows you to observe the local vegetation and fauna, with fruit trees, vegetable gardens and pastures that are typical of Minho agriculture.
As you progress, you cross small bridges where the sound of the river is a constant presence, creating an atmosphere of tranquility. At certain points, it is possible to see old water mills, which are vestiges of the traditional rural activity of the region. These mills, often restored, become interesting points to stop and appreciate the history of the place.
In some sections further away from the urban area, the ecovia passes through dirt tracks, surrounded by vegetation, offering a moment of greater immersion in nature. This can be a good opportunity to observe water birds or even take a few breaks to relax by the river.
When returning to Quinta de Pentieiros along the left bank, the journey can be done at a more leisurely pace, taking advantage of the last moments to absorb the peace and beauty of the natural landscape.
Circular route along the ecovia – Ponte da Barca and Arcos de Valdevez SELF-GUIDED (2h30)
Activity starts: Bravães Kayak Park, 9:00 am or 2:00 pm (15 min from Peneda Ecofarm)
Following the right bank of the Vez River, the greenway follows the river banks, surrounded by a rural landscape, with farmland and small scattered villages, typical of the Minho hinterland.
The greenway takes us to Ponte da Barca, one of the most emblematic historic towns in the region, famous for its medieval bridge, which gives the town its name. The Ponte da Barca Stone Bridge was built in the 14th century and is one of the region’s main historical landmarks. It connects the two banks of the Lima River and is a key stop for those travelling along the Eco-path.
Here you can take the opportunity to explore the town’s historic centre, characterised by narrow streets, stone houses and the constant presence of the water of the Lima River, which runs through the town.
After passing Ponte da Barca, the route continues along the right bank of the Lima River, passing through green fields and small villages. Here, you start to feel the transition to a more urban area as you approach Arcos de Valdevez, a historic city rich in heritage.
After exploring Arcos de Valdevez, you return along the left bank of the Lima River, which offers different views of the city and the surrounding nature. This route is ideal for those who want a mix of nature, history and culture in a single journey.
Price
€30 NON-ELECTRIC bike/person up to 4 hours; €60 ELECTRIC bike/person up to 4 hours (does not include transfer to the starting/finishing point)