About This Trail
The "Trail of the Dead" — Trilho dos Mortos — is an ancient funerary path in Melgaço where, for centuries, villagers carried their dead along this route to be buried at the Castro Laboreiro cemetery. The trail crosses rugged granite terrain through the Serra da Peneda, deep within Peneda-Gerês National Park.
What makes this trail extraordinary is not just the landscape — which is striking — but the weight of history underfoot. Every stone slab, every carved cross along the way marks the passage of generations who walked this same path in mourning. It's a deeply moving experience that connects you to the land in a way few hikes can.
And then, after hours of walking through ancient granite, you reward yourself with one of Portugal's great culinary treasures: a thick-cut Cachena beef steak grilled over charcoal.
Getting There
Start at Castro Laboreiro village, in the municipality of Melgaço, within Peneda-Gerês National Park. The village is approximately 30 minutes by car from Melgaço town centre. The road is well-paved but winding. Parking is available in the village.
Route
- Begin at Castro Laboreiro village and pick up the ancient stone path (calçada)
- Follow the funerary crosses and waymarkers carved into the granite
- Cross open granite landscapes with views stretching across the valleys
- Look out over the Lima and Minho valleys from the higher points
- Pass through traditional brandas and inverneiras — the seasonal settlements used by herders for centuries
- Keep an eye out for Garrano wild horses grazing on the hillsides
- Loop back toward Castro Laboreiro to complete the circuit
After the Hike
Posta de Cachena
Head to Tasquinha d'Avó in Castro Laboreiro or Adega do Sossego in Melgaço for a "posta de cachena" — a thick-cut steak from the indigenous Cachena cattle breed, the smallest native cattle in Europe. Grilled over charcoal, seasoned simply with coarse salt, and served on a hot stone slab. Rich, flavourful, and utterly deserved after the trail. Pair with local vinho verde.
Tips
- The trail is within Peneda-Gerês National Park — respect the environment and stay on marked paths
- Bring water and snacks; there are no facilities along the route
- The cultural and historical significance makes this far more than just a hike — read up on the funerary traditions beforehand
- Wear sturdy hiking boots; the granite slabs can be slippery when wet
- Check restaurant opening hours in advance, especially outside of summer season
