The old railway route that connected the city of Amarante to Arco de Baúlhe, deactivated since 1990, was transformed into an eco-trail, lasting more than 50 km. Considered one of the most beautiful railway lines in the country, the Ecopista do Tâmega allows direct contact with the historical and natural heritage, passing through peaceful riverside villages, bridges, tunnels, vineyards and the Tâmega River, ex-libris of the region, which appears by surprise in several parts of the ecopista.

 

As soon as you leave Amarante, at kilometer 16, you will pass through the 153 m long Gatão Tunnel. The tunnel entrances are covered in vegetation that gives it a special charm. Photo break!

About a kilometer and a half after the tunnel, there is the pier and the old Gatão station, with tile panels and, 150 meters ahead, on the right side, is the Romanesque Church of Gatão. The 13th century church is part of the Romanesque Route of Tâmega and Sousa.

​

The green, white, red and rosé wines produced in the region are highly appreciated in Portugal. Therefore, do not be surprised by the many hectares of vineyards that, along the route, take over the ecovia.
But ecovia is not made up of just vineyards! It will also pass through several stations that are being restored and transformed into cultural spaces, such as the Celorico de Basto station, which houses the Interpretive Center of the old railway line.

 

Before arriving at Mondim de Basto station, you will pass through one of the largest granite bridges on the railways in Europe. At 47 m high, the Matamá bridge, built in 1934, is 194 meters long. Here… break for photos, once again! The view of the Tâmega River and Monte Farinha (where the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Graça is located) is simply surprisingly beautiful!

The ride ends at the Arco de Baúlhe station building, today the Railway Center. While you rest, before cycling in the opposite direction, take the opportunity to admire the tile panels from 1940.