モンテアロイアのおすすめランニングルート

For those of us who are older, it reminds us of what it was like to cross from one country to another, when you might randomly have to open the trunk of your car so that both police forces could check what you were carrying, so that younger people could get their documents, and above all so that everyone can see how beautiful and enriching it is to be able to live in peace between neighboring countries.

Valença Fortress, also known as Praça-forte de Valença do Minho, is an imposing jewel of Portuguese military architecture with over eight centuries of history. Its origins date back to the 13th century, when King Sancho I and later Afonso III fortified it to protect the border with Galicia. During the Restoration War (17th–18th centuries), it was transformed into a Vauban-style fortress under the engineer Miguel de l’École and the architect Manuel Pinto de Vilalobos, being completed in 1713. The fortress withstood attacks during the Restoration, was captured and recaptured several times, and was also defended during the Napoleonic Wars and the Liberal Wars.

The Tui International Bridge is a landmark on the border between Portugal and Spain, connecting the Galician city of Tui to Valença, Portugal, across the Minho River. This historic metal truss bridge serves as a crossing for cars, trains, and pedestrians. It is also part of the Camino de Santiago route, offering views of the river and both cities.

The imposing Valença Fortress rises atop a hill, dominating the landscape and leaving an unforgettable impression on those who arrive. More than a symbol, it is the soul of the city, preserving centuries of history within its walls. Built in the 17th century on the ruins of an ancient 13th-century castle, the fortress is a masterful example of military architecture of the period, with its star-shaped walls stretching for an impressive 5.5 kilometers. Upon entering, one immediately senses the strength and grandeur of Valença, one of the oldest towns in Portugal.

Thick, heavy masonry

Superbly preserved and well-maintained star-shaped fortress

The well-preserved star fortress of Valença dominates the Minho valley from an elevated position and offers wide views in all directions.

Mount Aloia is a beautiful place full of nature, this natural park is located on the southern limit of the Serra do Galiñeiro. One of its main attractions are the panoramic views of the valleys of the Miño and Louro rivers. The highest point is Alto de San Xiao (631 m), which is the most visited place in this enclave. Mount Aloia was declared the first Natural Park of Galicia on October 4, 1978. Although it is the smallest of the natural parks in the community, it has an extensive network of paths, 6 viewpoints and picnic areas to enjoy nature alongside the “wet stripe” (border) with Portugal. Near Mount Aloia, there is a Via Crucis that culminates at the Cruz viewpoint, which dates back to 1910. This viewpoint offers impressive views and is a must-see place for cycle tourists and lovers of hiking and nature. If you have the opportunity to visit Mount Aloia, I recommend exploring these places and enjoying the natural beauty it offers. I hope you have a wonderful experience! 😊