INTERNATIONAL DOURO NATURAL PARK
17 MAY 2026
CYCLE "DISCOVERING THE NORTHEAST OF TRÁS-OS-MONTES"- INTERNATIONAL DOURO NATURAL PARK
The International Douro Natural Park encompasses a diverse range of landscapes—among the most breathtaking in the country—and a rich variety of flora and fauna. On 17 May, we will be leading an interpretive walk through the park’s landscape, exploring an area characterised by imposing cliffs, wild nature, and an authentic cultural and heritage identity.
Come and discover the park’s nature with us in the splendour of spring!
Free activity, but registration is required.
Come and discover the park’s nature with us in the splendour of spring!
Free activity, but registration is required.
ITINERARY AND PROGRAMME
The trail, the lime kilns and the wild countryside
On this walk, we will follow the Forcaleiro Trail (PR9), whose name is inspired by the lime kilns (Forcaleiro) used to produce calcium oxide by calcining limestone. These structures, built using traditional craftsmanship and local knowledge, also served an ecological purpose, helping to reduce the acidity of the region’s soils.
Starting at the Parish Church of Sendim, a unique place of worship, we will explore both the rugged landscape of the cliffs and the buildings that mark the history and rural character of the region. We will traverse a landscape where the past (and the present), local tradition and centuries-old culture are rooted in the wild.
Start 9.00 am Sendim Parish Church 41.38685, -6.42622
End 16:00 (at the starting point)
Route difficulty moderate (11.8 km – circular)
Terrain dirt and rocks
Recommendations
Participants should bring suitable, comfortable and low-profile clothing and footwear; sun cream; water; and, if available, binoculars.
Bring a packed lunch and snacks.
On this walk, we will follow the Forcaleiro Trail (PR9), whose name is inspired by the lime kilns (Forcaleiro) used to produce calcium oxide by calcining limestone. These structures, built using traditional craftsmanship and local knowledge, also served an ecological purpose, helping to reduce the acidity of the region’s soils.
Starting at the Parish Church of Sendim, a unique place of worship, we will explore both the rugged landscape of the cliffs and the buildings that mark the history and rural character of the region. We will traverse a landscape where the past (and the present), local tradition and centuries-old culture are rooted in the wild.
Start 9.00 am Sendim Parish Church 41.38685, -6.42622
End 16:00 (at the starting point)
Route difficulty moderate (11.8 km – circular)
Terrain dirt and rocks
Recommendations
Participants should bring suitable, comfortable and low-profile clothing and footwear; sun cream; water; and, if available, binoculars.
Bring a packed lunch and snacks.
REQUIREMENTS
Participants
Minimum – 5
Maximum – 15
Insurance
This activity is subject to a €5 fee for personal accident insurance (optional).
If you choose not to take out insurance, you will be required to sign a liability waiver.
NOTE
Palombar reserves the right to cancel or alter the activity programme should weather conditions be unsuitable or should the minimum number of participants not be reached.
Minimum – 5
Maximum – 15
Insurance
This activity is subject to a €5 fee for personal accident insurance (optional).
If you choose not to take out insurance, you will be required to sign a liability waiver.
NOTE
Palombar reserves the right to cancel or alter the activity programme should weather conditions be unsuitable or should the minimum number of participants not be reached.
ABOUT THE CYCLE
The ‘Discovering the Northeast of Trás-os-Montes’ Cycle aims to showcase the natural wealth of this region and is divided into three routes, each taking place in a location of significant ecological importance and rich natural heritage. The activity consists of an interpretive walk, during which participants are encouraged to engage directly with the landscape and its biodiversity, and made aware of the importance of conserving it to ensure a sustainable future for the region, whilst also focusing on the well-being and revitalisation of local communities. The walks take place in areas of the Natura 2000 network, specifically in the International Douro Natural Park, the Sabor and Maçãs Rivers Special Area of Conservation, and the Montesinho Natural Park.