Monsanto | Percurso Vermelho

Places of passage: Relva, Eugénia, Penha Garcia, Termas de Monfortinho, Toulões, Alcafozes, Idanha-a-Velha, Adingeiro, Carroqueiro,

The routes from the Historical Village of Monsanto start at the main square in the neighbourhood of Relva in order to make the shorter routes easier without having to go up into the village. This route heads off eastwards and then turns right towards Eugénia, where it turns left to rejoin the N239, on the right, in the direction of Penha Garcia. After around 7 km it turns left to access Penha Garcia, yet another village that is well worth a visit to see its natural and cultural resources. The route passes through the village and descends again to the N239 in the direction of Termas de Monfortinho, running gently downhill for 11 km. It passes through Termas de Monfortinho and continues south along the N240 for a few kilometres before turning right towards Torre shortly after passing the Monfortinho swimming pools. It passes Torre and turns left towards Toulões, which it reaches after 12 km. After departing Toulões it turns right and follows the N332 to Alcafozes. At the Alcafozes roundabout it continues on to the N332, with Monsanto on the horizon and the Historical Village of Idanha-a-Velha appearing in the valley below, with the next few kilometres all being downhill. It turns right to enter the village, which is well worth a visit. The route departs the Historical Village of Idanha-a-Velha towards Monsanto, turning right onto the N332 and right again shortly afterwards, in the direction of Adingeiro. This road is almost all uphill. Upon arrival in Adingeiro the route takes a left turn towards Carroqueiro and then turns right onto the N239 towards Monsanto. Shortly afterwards it turns right towards Relva and right again onto Valado’s narrow cobblestone streets. Monsanto is accessed along fairly steep streets that lead into the village of Relva and continue upwards to the Historical Village of Monsanto, which is entered through the west gate next to the cemetery. The ascent from Valado to Monsanto is about 2.5 km with a difficult surface, but the landscapes that can be enjoyed along the route make it worthwhile. At the top of Monsanto, after passing through the village, there is a steep descent to Relva to finish the route.