From tree to tree

Walking above the trees. This could be the summary of this itinerary in Parada de Sil. We start at the Fábrica da Luz, a former hydroelectric energy production facility from the beginning of the 20th century, now converted into a hostel and reception centre for those who want to do mountain bike routes in the surrounding area.

From here, a wooden footbridge takes us through a tree-lined tunnel in the canyon of the Mao River, which we can barely see but can hear the sound of its waterfalls. Halfway along the path, this vegetation canopy disappears and we can enjoy the view of the valley and stop an enabled viewpoint. Children and adults alike can learn more about the richness of the fauna and flora thanks to educational panels and games located along the route. The final section is a stairway that descends to the banks of the Mao River at the point where it approaches and flows into the Sil River.

Fábrica da Luz (42°22'27.31''N / 7°29'49.40''W)

Mao River (42°22'54.55''N / 7°29'48.24''W)