Walking trails
Route of the Millennial Waters
A 7 km loop in Alcafache (Mangualde) starting at the thermal baths, climbing to Casal Mendo through vineyards, chapels and shrines, and returning to the Dão river.
PR3 MGL · Mangualde
About the trail
A 7.04 km circular trail (about 2h15, +251 m elevation) starting and ending at the Nossa Senhora de Fátima Chapel, next to the Alcafache thermal baths on the left bank of the Dão.
It climbs the valley towards Casal Mendo, first through pine forest and higher up among oaks, olive groves and farmland. At a shrine-marked junction it crosses large vineyards up to the Nossa Senhora da Piedade Chapel, a 500 m detour leads to Casal Sandinho and the São Vicente Main Church.
In Carvalho the trail visits the Santa Cruz Chapel and returns to Casal Mendo via the São Frutuoso Chapel, before descending back to the Dão and the Alcafache thermal baths, known for sulphurous waters at around 50 °C, recommended for respiratory and rheumatic conditions.
A good way to combine walking, rural heritage and an afternoon at the thermal baths or the Alcafache river beach.
Interactive map
Practical details
- Start at the Nossa Senhora de Fátima Chapel, next to the Alcafache thermal baths (left bank of the Dão).
- Walkable year-round; take care with summer heat and with marshy sections after heavy rain.
- Walking shoes, water and sun protection; carry a map or GPS with the route track.
- Optional ~500 m detour to Casal Sandinho and the São Vicente Main Church.
More information
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