The wind that shapes the granite

Past the grey granites of Pinhel, come the vineyards, here and there in the landscape until Valbom, the first stop of the day. Passing over the Porquinho stream at the old bridge, next to the parish church, you will feel as if you are walking through a village with medieval origins. If you can't stock up with water and food in the village, do so at the petrol station a little further ahead, as the following sections are more demanding and you won't find many support facilities. As far as Póvoa d'El Rei the way is comfortable, although with little shade. After crossing the Massueime stream at the medieval bridge, you begin the climb to Ameal, over lonely trails along that watercourse. The second part of the stage takes you past prominent granite massifs, solitary watchmen of a desert landscape, which human hand does not seem to have dared to touch. Before Falachos and after São Martinho you can climb these natural vaults of subterranean and invisible constructions and, in this last place, enjoy a superb view over Trancoso. To complete the journey, you have to go down the valley and enter the walled perimeter of Trancoso from the north side. Walk through the town inside its walls to the south and west, where the main points of interest are located.