Tramo : - (12 Km)

Final del tramo

Tramo 2: N2 - M522 (7.6 Km)

As soon as we leave the previous section behind, we continue along the N2, one of Portugal’s most emblematic roads, which at this point begins to show a much more mountainous character. The tarmac is in excellent condition, and the road links broad, well-sighted bends that let you enjoy the ride at a relaxed pace, always surrounded by a dense forest of eucalyptus and pine trees.

The light mist still covering the slopes during our verification adds a very special atmosphere to the route. At times the trees partially disappear into the haze, creating an almost magical scene that invites you to slow down and enjoy the landscape. A little further on, as we continue, the sun begins to break through and visibility improves, revealing the intense green of the mountains.

The layout alternates gentle climbs and descents with medium-radius bends that faithfully follow the shape of the mountain range. We hardly find any traffic, and the feeling of isolation grows as we move away from Coimbra. It is one of those stretches where the road seems to have been designed with the motorcyclist in mind.

In the last few kilometers, small scattered houses and the occasional forestry operation appear, a sign that we are approaching a new village. The road slightly loses its mountainous character and becomes smoother before reaching the end of the section.

The section ends at a STOP at kilometer 33.5 of the route, where we must turn left to join the M522..

Final del tramo

Tramo 3: M522 - M523 (9.4 Km)

We join the M522 to tackle one of those stretches that are especially enjoyable on a motorcycle. The road keeps a good width and an impeccable surface as it winds between eucalyptus and pine forests, linking a steady succession of bends that follow the contours of the mountains. Traffic remains practically nonexistent, allowing us to maintain a very pleasant pace.

Over the first kilometers we pass through small villages such as Urgueanheira and Salgueiral, where a few houses appear scattered among the vegetation before the forest wraps itself around us again. The scenery alternates clearings, gentle hills and shaded sections that make the ride even more entertaining.

The road continues to draw a very twisty line, with constant changes of direction and slight gradients that turn this stretch into one of the most fun parts of the day. As we keep going, the sun finally overcomes the early-morning fog, lighting up the deep green of the forest and improving visibility.

Shortly before reaching Pombeiro da Beira, several very tight bends appear, forcing us to slow down. If we look up from one curve to the next, we can take in the forest-covered slopes that surround the whole valley, one of the most characteristic landscapes in this part of central Portugal.

The last meters lead us to the outskirts of Pombeiro da Beira. Here it is worth stopping for a few minutes to admire the Igreja Matriz de Pombeiro da Beira, the town's main religious monument, and to stroll through its quiet streets, which preserve the peaceful atmosphere of the villages of inland Portugal.

Without even noticing it, we join the M523 to keep enjoying the roads of this Portuguese mountain range.

Final del tramo

Tramo 4: M523 - Arganil (10.1 Km)

We continue along the M523, a narrow and very enjoyable road that seems designed for riding pleasure. The pavement is in perfect condition and the bends follow one after another as we make our way through eucalyptus and pine forests, together with small patches of native vegetation that cover the slopes of this corner of central Portugal.

The route crosses tiny villages such as Aveia and Vale Diogo, where just a few stone houses and reddish roofs break the stillness of the landscape. These are places where time seems to pass at a different pace, surrounded by mountains and a distinctly rural setting.

The road keeps alternating gentle climbs and descents, linking medium-radius curves with others that are a little tighter, always with very little traffic. In some stretches the forest opens up and lets us enjoy beautiful panoramic views over the valleys around us, while the mountains make it clear that we are still delving deeper into one of the most appealing areas in Portugal for enjoying a motorcycle ride.

As we approach Arganil, the road becomes a little wider and the first scattered houses begin to appear before the descent into town.

Arganil is one of the most important towns in the Serra do Açor and an excellent place to stop. Its pleasant historic center invites you to wander along quiet streets where the Igreja Matriz, the Capela do Senhor da Agonia and several manor houses stand out. It is also highly recommended to head down to the banks of the Alva River or enjoy the atmosphere of its terraces before continuing the route.

The section ends on arrival in Arganil, where we will continue straight ahead to stay on the M523 toward the next section.

Final del tramo

Tramo 5: Arganil - Góis (12.3 Km)

We leave Arganil behind and take the N342 in the direction of Góis. The road begins with a gentle descent between the last houses in town before winding back into a landscape dominated by mountains covered in eucalyptus and pine trees. The surface is excellent and the layout, full of linked bends, turns every kilometer into a real pleasure for any motorcyclist.

Right after leaving Arganil, it is worth remembering that this town is the gateway to the Serra do Açor and a magnificent place to stop. Alongside its pleasant historic center, the highlights include the Igreja Matriz de Arganil, the Capela do Senhor da Agonia and the nearby River Beaches of the Alva River, one of the area’s great natural attractions during the warmer months.

The N342 continues to snake along the mountainside, alternating short straights with medium-radius bends and a few hairpins that demand precise cornering. The road carries hardly any traffic and lets you enjoy the scenery to the full, while the valley opens out at several points, offering lovely views over the Serra do Açor, one of the most spectacular mountain areas in central Portugal.

Along the way we pass through small settlements such as Vale do Corvo, Sequeiros and Ponte de Sótão, peaceful villages where rural life still sets the pace of everyday living. The traditional houses, small vegetable gardens and the forests that practically embrace the road convey the most authentic essence of this region.

The last kilometers run parallel to the Ceira River before reaching Góis, one of the most charming towns on the entire stage. It is well worth wandering through its well-kept historic center, crossing the Medieval Bridge of Góis, relaxing on the River Beach of Góis or visiting the Casa da Cultura de Góis, where part of the town’s history and traditions are on display. It is no coincidence that Góis is a true benchmark for nature tourism and one of the favorite destinations for motorcyclists exploring the mountain ranges of central Portugal.

Final del tramo

Tramo 6: Góis - M508 (28.1 Km)

We leave Góis on the M543 to head into one of the longest and most spectacular stretches of this stage. The road begins by following the valley with a very flowing layout, linking bends of every radius over asphalt in excellent condition that invites you to enjoy the ride. Traffic is practically nonexistent, and the only sound breaking the silence is the engine echoing between the forest-covered slopes.

Over the first kilometers we pass through small settlements such as Cortecega, Cabrieira, Soalhinha or Aigra, where a few scattered homes appear, perfectly blended into the mountain landscape. The road never loses its twisty character, alternating short straights with constant changes of direction as the valley gradually narrows around us.

Little by little the route begins to gain altitude, following the course of the Ceira River, which appears and disappears among the vegetation. At several points we will enjoy magnificent panoramas over the valley, with the mountains covered in pines and eucalyptus stretching all the way to the horizon. It is one of those roads capable of holding a motorcyclist's attention every meter of the way, combining technical bends with a landscape that invites you to stop again and again to take it in.

When passing through the small village of Fajão, it is worth taking a look at its well-kept traditional ensemble. Very close by is the Aldeia do Xisto de Fajão, one of the best-preserved historic schist villages in the region, where traditional architecture blends with the spectacular natural setting of the Serra do Açor.

From here the road continues climbing between vegetation-covered slopes. The bends come one after another without pause, perfectly linked and with excellent visibility, offering one of the most rewarding rides for any riding enthusiast. As we gain height, the natural viewpoints let us enjoy an increasingly wide perspective over the deep valleys we have just crossed.

In the last kilometers the landscape opens up for good and the mountain shows all its grandeur. The views reach dozens of kilometers across the mountain ranges of central Portugal, turning this final section into one of the most spectacular of the entire stage. At the final junction, we must turn left to join the M508.

Final del tramo

Tramo 7: M508 - N344 (10.6 Km)

The M508 continues to give us one of the most memorable stretches of the entire A Rota 18. Along this section, the road winds along the mountainside, linking broad, perfectly banked bends, with immaculate asphalt and virtually no traffic. Every turn reveals a new horizon, turning the ride into an experience as thrilling as it is contemplative.

We soon reach the area of Panorâmica do Cume, one of the great natural balconies of the Serra do Açor. It is well worth stopping for a few minutes to enjoy the breathtaking views over the endless sea of mountains that defines central Portugal. On clear days, visibility stretches for dozens of kilometres and makes it possible to grasp the scale of the territory we are crossing.

The road continues to climb and descend gently along the watershed, alternating open stretches with small pine woods and mountain scrub. The landscape changes constantly and, when the wind blows from the slopes, it carries the scent of rockrose, heather and mountain vegetation warmed by the sun.

To our left extends the Mata da Maragaça, one of the best-preserved native forest masses in Portugal and a true refuge of biodiversity. This centuries-old forest is one of the most valuable natural areas in the Serra do Açor and gives the route an even wilder character.

Over the last few kilometres, we keep enjoying an extraordinary panoramic layout, where the linked bends allow us to maintain a very smooth pace while the views over the valleys unfold one after another. The feeling of riding suspended above the mountains turns this stretch into one of those places that remain etched in the traveller’s memory for a long time.

The section ends at a T-junction, where we must turn right to join the N344.

Final del tramo

Tramo 8: N344 - M1401 (10 Km)

The N344 continues to offer one of the most spectacular roads in the whole Serra de Açor. The asphalt remains in perfect condition, and the linked bends trace a route that seems designed for any motorcyclist to enjoy. On one side, slopes covered with scrub and low mountain vegetation come and go; on the other, deep valleys open beneath our feet, offering panoramas of enormous beauty.

The route alternates gentle descents with long, wide-radius bends that let you enjoy the scenery without losing your riding rhythm. The views over the mountains of central Portugal are constant, with a landscape that becomes ever more rugged and wild, conveying a pleasant sense of isolation.

Soon after, we begin a steep descent towards Castanheira de Pera, a town well known for being home to the Praia Fluvial das Rocas, one of the most famous artificial river beaches in Portugal. Although our route does not enter the town centre, it is worth knowing that it lies just a few minutes from the road and is an excellent place to stop in the summer months.

The bends keep accompanying us as we lose altitude and the valley slowly closes in. The landscape alternates vegetated slopes with small terraces and scattered houses that announce the proximity of the town. The air remains clean and fresh, with that distinctive scent of the hills that accompanies this entire mountain area.

During the last kilometres, the road continues to drop decisively towards the valley, offering some of the prettiest views of the section over Castanheira de Pera and the mountains that surround it. The road surface remains excellent and traffic very light, allowing you to fully enjoy every bend.

At stage kilometre 114, we change roads without even noticing it, continuing on the M1401.

Final del tramo

Tramo 9: M1401 - Indeterminada (3 Km)

As soon as we leave the N344, we join the M1401 to keep descending through the narrow valley of the Ceira River. The road remains in excellent condition and is a very enjoyable ride, combining medium-radius bends with tighter corners that force us to link one after another while the mountain completely surrounds us.

The scenery continues to be dominated by slopes covered with scrub and Mediterranean vegetation, dotted with rocky outcrops and small natural terraces. As we lose altitude, the valley narrows and the Ceira River runs very close to the road, bringing a touch of freshness and a pleasant contrast of color with the green of the vegetation.

We reach Porto da Balsa, a small settlement beside the river that for centuries was one of the traditional crossing points between both banks. Although today the road makes the journey much easier, the surroundings still retain the quiet charm of the old river crossings in the mountains.

The road keeps winding between the mountains while we enjoy virtually no traffic at all. Every bend opens up new views over the valley, turning these few kilometers into a magnificent appetizer of everything that still lies ahead on this stage.

Once again we change roads almost without noticing it, beginning a new stretch that runs along an unnamed road.

Final del tramo

Tramo 10: Indeterminada - M1404 (9 Km)

We leave the small local road behind and continue along a route that is just as narrow but with excellent pavement, climbing steadily through the mountains of the Ceira valley. From the very first meters it is clear that we are entering one of the most sparsely populated and wildest areas of the entire stage, where the road seems to make its way forward only for those who enjoy exploring places far from mass tourism.

The route combines long bends with continuous changes in elevation, always accompanied by an open landscape of slopes covered in heather, broom and mountain scrub. The vegetation is now less dense and allows us to take in broad horizons over the mountain ranges that surround us. Every few kilometers, new natural viewpoints appear from which to enjoy spectacular views over the valley.

The road passes beside the small settlement of Cerouco, a tiny cluster of houses perfectly integrated into this mountainous landscape, where time seems to pass at another pace. The peace and quiet are absolute, and it is easy to ride for several kilometers without meeting another vehicle.

As we keep gaining altitude, the horizon becomes broader and broader. The photographs do not do justice to the feeling of immensity conveyed by this area, with successive mountain chains fading into the distance and a road that winds elegantly between them. It is one of those stretches where it is hard to resist stopping the bike to take in the scenery.

For the last few kilometers, the road continues along the mountainside with a very flowing layout and impeccable pavement, allowing for relaxed riding while the silence of the mountains is broken only by the sound of the engine and the wind.

At kilometer 126 of the route, this section ends, and we will turn left to continue on the M1404.

Final del tramo

Tramo 11: M1404 - Portela de Unhais (5 Km)

The M1404 continues to offer a magnificent ride through the Ceira valley. The asphalt is in excellent condition, and the road strings together curves of every radius as it winds along between slopes covered with pines, eucalyptus and mountain vegetation. Traffic remains practically nonexistent, allowing you to fully enjoy a relaxed and very smooth ride.

From several points along the route, you get beautiful panoramic views over the valley and the mountains that surround the Ceira River. The layout alternates small descents and gentle climbs that make the ride especially entertaining, always accompanied by a landscape that conveys a pleasant sense of isolation.

The road leads us to Portela de Unhais, a small mountain village belonging to the municipality of Pampilhosa da Serra. Before arriving, it is worth stopping at the Miradouro da Portela de Unhais, an excellent natural balcony from which you can take in the valley, the village and a good part of the mountains of the Serra de Açor. Very close by is also the Parque de Merendas de Portela de Unhais, a perfect place to take a break surrounded by nature.

We leave the village, once again enjoying the excellent condition of the pavement and the tranquility that characterizes this part of the route. The road continues to invite you to link bends with complete naturalness while the mountains dominate the horizon.

Final del tramo

Tramo 12: Portela de Unhais - Barroca (12 Km)

The M1408 continues to offer us one of the most spectacular stretches of the entire stage. The road winds along the mountainside, alternating sweeping bends with tighter corners, always on excellent pavement and surrounded by dense pine forests that cover the mountains of the Zêzere valley. Each descent opens up new panoramas over the mountain range, making this section a true pleasure for any motorcyclist.

After leaving the small settlement of Machialinho behind, the road begins to lose altitude more decisively as the first views of the Zêzere River appear. Shortly after, we reach one of the most beautiful spots of the day: Janeiro de Cima, one of Portugal's historic Aldeias do Xisto.

It is well worth spending a few minutes wandering through the narrow streets of Janeiro de Cima, where numerous traditional houses built in schist are still preserved. The village has kept its mountain character intact and is one of the finest examples of traditional architecture in this part of the Serra do Açor.

Right beside the urban area we find the pleasant Praia Fluvial de Janeiro de Cima, set on the banks of the Zêzere River. Its calm waters, the small bridge and the green areas make this a magnificent place to rest before continuing the route.

It is also highly recommended to stop for a moment to take in the views over the Zêzere valley, since from the road itself there are splendid perspectives of the village embracing the river, one of the most iconic scenes in this region.

We leave Janeiro de Cima following the M1408 once again, which continues linking bends between woods and hillsides until reaching the junction where we turn left towards Barroca.

Final del tramo

Tramo 13: Barroca - Silvares (9 Km)

The N238 leaves Barroca, climbing gently between mountains covered in vast pine forests. The road is in very good condition and has a smooth layout, with a succession of broad bends and changes in gradient that let you enjoy the ride while the Zêzere valley gradually falls behind us.

Over the first few kilometres, the route offers continuous views across the slopes of the Serra do Açor, alternating open stretches with others set between rocky embankments and pine woods. It is a very pleasant road to ride, with little traffic and a steady pace that invites you to take in the scenery.

As we approach Silvares, the road begins to ease its profile and the first houses of the municipality appear. We enter a town with a strong mining tradition, historically closely linked to wolfram extraction during the Second World War.

If you have time, it is worth making a detour to the Museu Mineiro de São Francisco de Assis, where the importance mining had in the region's development is explained. It is also worth strolling through the centre of Silvares and taking in the Igreja Matriz de Silvares, the town's main religious building.

The section ends in the centre of Silvares, where at the next junction we will continue the route towards Ourondo to head once again into the mountain roads of inland Portugal.

Final del tramo

Tramo 14: Silvares - M511 (4 Km)

We leave Silvares via the M1062, a quiet road that, for the first few kilometres, runs very close to the Zêzere River. The road surface is in good condition and the route is easy, allowing you to enjoy the scenery as we leave the built-up area behind and head once again into a landscape of forests and gentle hills.

One of the most enjoyable moments of the stretch comes when crossing the Bridge over the Zêzere River. From here, you get lovely views of the riverbed and the riverside vegetation that lines the banks, creating a very characteristic scene of this inland region of Portugal.

After the bridge, the road continues to climb gently until it reaches the small town of Lavacolhos. Although it is a small settlement, it retains the peaceful atmosphere of mountain villages and serves as the gateway to the municipality of Fundão.

If you have a few minutes, it is well worth stopping by the Igreja Matriz de Lavacolhos, the town's main religious building, as well as strolling through its streets to discover the traditional architecture of this area of the Beira Baixa.

As you leave Lavacolhos, continue straight on to join the M511.

Final del tramo

Tramo 15: M511 - N230 (20 Km)

The M511 gives us one of the great riding stretches of this stage. As soon as we leave Lavacolhos behind, the road begins a steady climb toward the foothills of the Serra da Estrela, linking bends of every radius on impeccable pavement with very little traffic. This is a road made for enjoying the ride, where every corner leads to a new panorama over the mountains of inland Portugal.

Over the first kilometers we pass through small rural settlements such as Chão do Galego and Sobral de São Miguel, surrounded by terraced fields, woods, and old cultivation terraces that preserve the traditional character of this region. The road alternates between sections tucked between slopes and others more open, from which magnificent views over the valley begin to appear.

It is worth stopping for a few minutes in Sobral de São Miguel, one of the historic Aldeias de Xisto. Its narrow streets, the houses built in schist, and the peaceful atmosphere make this small village one of the most charming spots on the route.

From here the climb keeps gaining height and the M511 turns into a true panoramic road. The photos speak for themselves: perfectly linked bends, wide horizons, and numerous natural viewpoints from which to admire the mountains of the Serra da Estrela and the deep valleys we have been leaving behind.

As we approach the end of the stretch we reach the town of Unhais da Serra, known for its thermal waters. If time allows, it is worth visiting the Termas de Unhais da Serra, a spa resort with a long tradition that makes use of the mineral-medicinal waters that have sprung in this area for centuries.

When we reach the T-junction, we turn right to join the N230 and continue our route.

Final del tramo

Tramo 16: N230 - Barirro do Cabé§o (32 Km)

The N230 takes us toward one of the great natural settings of all A Rota 18. From the very first kilometres, the road begins to climb through the forests of the Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela, linking an almost unbroken succession of wide, perfectly surfaced bends. The route is very enjoyable to ride, alternating faster sections with tighter, more winding ones, always surrounded by a mountain landscape that invites you to take it all in without haste.

After crossing the pass, we begin a long descent toward Unhais da Serra. Views over the valleys and pine-covered slopes appear constantly on both sides of the road, making this stretch one of the most scenic of the stage. It is common to find small natural viewpoints where it is well worth stopping for a few minutes to take in the scenery.

We pass through the town of Unhais da Serra, known throughout Portugal for its historic Termas de Unhais da Serra. Its mineral-medicinal waters, used for centuries, have made this town one of the most important spa destinations in the region. If the schedule allows, it is an excellent place to take a break before continuing the route.

Leaving Unhais da Serra behind, the N230 changes character completely. The mountain bends give way to a broader, smoother layout that crosses extensive pine forests and small agricultural areas, allowing us to keep a steady pace as we gradually approach the eastern slope of the Serra da Estrela.

The road passes by the small town of Tortosendo, the gateway to the municipality of Covilhã. Very close by is the Museu de Lanifícios da Universidade da Beira Interior, dedicated to the important textile tradition that brought prosperity to this region for centuries.

A few kilometres later we will reach Bairro do Cabeço, where at the next junction we will continue along the M513.

Final del tramo

Tramo 17: Barirro do Cabé§o - Peso (7 Km)

After leaving Bairro do Cabeço, we continue along the M513, a secondary road with a good surface that descends gently between small villages and a rural landscape dominated by pine and eucalyptus forests. Traffic is usually very light, which makes for relaxed riding as wide bends follow one another between hillsides and small valleys.

The route crosses the centre of Vales do Rio, where it is well worth stopping for a few minutes to visit the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, the town’s main historic building. It is also pleasant to wander through its small traditional centre, made up of quiet streets and houses in the popular Beirã architectural style, which preserve the serene atmosphere of the villages of the Serra da Estrela.

A few kilometres later we reach Peso, a locality that offers several points of interest. The most notable is the Santuário de Nossa Senhora de La Salette, set in an elevated position and surrounded by gardens, from where there is a magnificent panoramic view over the Zêzere river valley. In the centre of the town, you can also visit the Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria Madalena, the Capela do Divino Espírito Santo, the Capela do Senhor dos Passos and several traditional fountains, such as the Fonte do Mergulho and the Chafarizito, which form part of the town’s historic heritage.

The road keeps a broad, pleasant line until the outskirts of Peso, where the surroundings become somewhat more urban before reaching the roundabout that marks the end of the section. There, we take the first exit to the right to join the M515.

Final del tramo

Tramo 18: Peso - N343 (4 Km)

From Peso we continue along the M515 heading southeast, leaving the town centre behind to enter a much more open landscape. The road surface is in very good condition, it is wide and practically straight, allowing for relaxed riding among meadows, small farms and the first views of the mountains that surround the Zêzere River valley.

Soon after, we cross the bridge over the Zêzere River, one of the main natural highlights of this stage. From here there are beautiful views of the river, which flows slowly between abundant riverside vegetation made up of willows, alders and poplars. It is a very pleasant place to stop for a few minutes and take in the scenery.

The road continues almost flat and with a very smooth layout, crossing a rural setting of wide cultivated fields and pastures where traffic is almost nonexistent. This is one of those stretches where it is easy to enjoy the landscape without needing to pay too much attention to the ride.

The end of the route is marked by a T-junction where we turn left to join the N343.

Final del tramo

Tramo 19: N343 - Fundao (6 Km)

We continue along the N343 in the direction of Fundão. The road has a good surface and plenty of width, crossing an agricultural landscape where crop fields, olive groves and some orchards stand out. The route is very comfortable, with long straight stretches and gentle bends that let you enjoy a relaxed ride.

During the first few kilometers we pass small farms and the village of Alcaide de Joanes, while the silhouette of the Serra da Estrela remains constantly visible in the distance. The closeness of the mountain and the openness of the valley create a landscape completely different from the more winding sections ridden earlier.

Little by little, the first houses of Fundão begin to appear, one of the most important cities in Beira Interior. Known throughout Portugal for the quality of its cherries, the city has an interesting historic heritage. It is worth exploring its historic center, where the Igreja Matriz de São Martinho, the Praça do Município, the Palácio do Picadeiro and the Museu Arqueológico Municipal José Monteiro stand out, along with its pleasant shopping streets and terraces.

Entry into Fundão is made along broad avenues with moderate traffic until reaching a roundabout. There we take the second exit, following the signs toward Covilhã, and continue the route through the city center.

Final del tramo

Tramo 20: Fundao - Vale Palaio (6 Km)

We leave Fundão behind on the N238, a well-surfaced road that climbs gently between residential areas and small orchards. As we gain altitude, excellent views begin to open up over the Cova da Beira plain, with the imposing silhouette of the Serra da Estrela dominating the horizon.

The first kilometres are very enjoyable to ride. Traffic drops off quickly once we leave the town, and the road links broad bends with long straights, letting us enjoy both the scenery and the ride. From several points along the route, magnificent panoramic views of the valley appear, especially towards Fundão and the extensive cherry orchards that have made this region famous.

The route crosses the quiet village of Alcaide de Joanes before reaching Soalheira, a settlement set on the foothills of the mountain range. Here it is worth approaching the Capela de São Lourenço, one of the town’s most representative religious buildings, and taking a short stroll through its traditional streets, where the atmosphere of the farming villages of the Beira Interior is still preserved.

In the final metres, we reach the junction at the entrance to Vale de Prazeres. At this intersection we turn left to continue on the N352, gradually heading into one of the most mountainous and spectacular areas of the Serra da Gardunha.

Final del tramo

Tramo 21: Vale Palaio - Escalos de Cima (40 Km)

This stretch leaves Vale Palaio via the N352 to follow one of the most pleasant roads in this stage. The asphalt is in good condition, and the route combines long straight sections with gentle bends, crossing a landscape that gradually opens out, where pine forests, olive groves, and the farmland typical of the Beira Interior region predominate. It is a comfortable ride that lets you enjoy the journey without complications as you head east.

During the first few kilometers, small villages such as Peroviseu appear one after another, where examples of traditional granite architecture are still preserved. Not long after, the road approaches Sobral de São Miguel, a village included in the Aldeias do Xisto network, very well known for its cobbled streets, stone houses, and the magnificent natural setting that surrounds it. Although the route does not pass through the historic center, it lies only a short distance away and is a highly recommended visit for anyone with a little time to spare.

The route continues alternating between small wooded areas and wide views over the Ocreza River valley, until reaching Escalos de Cima. This peaceful village preserves the rural essence of the Beira Interior and stands out for the Igreja Matriz de Escalos de Cima, several traditional buildings, and its close link with olive growing and oil production.

Upon arriving at Escalos de Cima, the route ends at an intersection where you must turn left to join the next road and continue the journey.

Final del tramo

Tramo 22: Escalos de Cima - N239 (15 Km)

The route leaves Escalos de Cima on the N233 heading northeast to enter a fast, very enjoyable stretch of road. The surface is in excellent condition and the road combines long straights with broad, open-radius bends that let you keep a smooth pace while the landscape gradually leaves behind the last foothills of the Serra da Gardunha and opens out toward the plains of the Beira Baixa.

Along the way, cultivated fields, oak dehesas and small groves dominate the scenery alongside the road. On both sides are agricultural holdings devoted mainly to olive groves and vineyards, offering a much more open landscape than the previous stretches, which were dominated by mountains.

The route crosses the surroundings of Ribeira de Aprade and continues toward Escalos de Baixo, a small village that preserves the rural character of the region. Very close to the route stands the Igreja Matriz de Escalos de Baixo, built on top of an older temple and considered the town's main historic building.

The last kilometers run through gentle rolling hills until reaching Lousa. This town is known for its interesting religious heritage, especially the Igreja Matriz de São Pedro, as well as several chapels and old manor houses that reflect the historical importance this farming settlement once had. In addition, the surrounding area offers fine views toward the Castelo Branco plain and the mountain ranges we have left behind.

When we reach the end of the stretch, we will find a junction where we must turn right to join the N239 in the direction of the next section.

Final del tramo

Tramo 23: N239 - N240 (42 Km)

The route leaves Miguel de Acha on the N239 to take on one of the fastest and most relaxed stretches of the entire stage. The excellent condition of the road surface, the broad straights and the gentle bends make for a very smooth ride as the landscape definitely shifts from the mountains of the Beira Interior to an extensive agricultural plain dotted with holm oaks, olive groves and small Mediterranean woods.

As we head east, the road passes through small places such as Proença-a-Velha, a pleasant rural village where it is well worth stopping to admire the Igreja Matriz de Proença-a-Velha and wander through its traditional granite streets, a faithful reflection of the local popular architecture of this region.

The route continues through an increasingly open landscape until the outskirts of Medelim, another village with an interesting historical heritage. Notable sights include the Igreja Matriz de Medelim, several manor houses and the old traditional village core, which still retains much of its original character.

On this stretch the route runs very close to the border with Spain. For several kilometres we will be just a short distance from the province of Cáceres, separated only by the gentle hills and valleys of the Spanish-Portuguese borderland. It is easy to imagine the ancient ties between both territories and how these frontier lands have shared history, customs and roads for centuries.

Before reaching the end of the stretch, to the north, the unmistakable silhouette of Penha Garcia appears, considered one of the most beautiful historic villages in inland Portugal. Although it lies just a few kilometres off the route and requires a small detour, it is well worth the visit for its spectacular Castelo de Penha Garcia, the famous fossil Portas de Ródão of the geopark and its impressive viewpoints over the valley.

The final kilometres lead us to Monfortinho, known for its renowned Termas de Monfortinho, whose mineral-medicinal waters have been used since Roman times. When we reach the roundabout, we must take the first exit on the right to join the N240 and continue the route.

Final del tramo

Tramo 24: N240 - Ladoeiro (44 Km)

The route leaves Monfortinho via the N240 to follow one of the quietest sections of the entire stage. The road is in excellent condition, with a layout made up of long straights and gentle bends that make for relaxed riding. The landscape is dominated by holm oak dehesas, vast olive groves, and broad areas of scrubland, typical of the eastern Beira Baixa.

For much of the route we travel very close to the border with Spain. On our right lies the International Tagus Natural Park, a protected natural area shared by Portugal and Extremadura that contains one of the finest examples of Mediterranean woodland on the Iberian Peninsula. Although the route does not enter the park, it runs through its surrounding area and lets us take in the distinctive landscape of this singular border region.

Near the route is also Segura, one of the Historical Villages of Portugal. A short detour makes it possible to visit its well-preserved Castelo de Segura, the Porta da Vila, and several viewpoints over the valley of the Erges River, which marks the natural border between Portugal and Spain.

The road continues toward Idanha-a-Nova, one of the municipalities with the greatest heritage wealth in the region. Although the itinerary passes along its outskirts, very nearby are the Pelourinho de Idanha-a-Nova, the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres, and the town's historic center. Also worth mentioning is the nearby Barragem Marechal Carmona, a large reservoir built on the Pônsul River that is one of the municipality's main recreational areas.

The last kilometers run between farming estates and small villages until reaching Ladoeiro, known for its agricultural tradition and for being one of Portugal's main rice-producing centers thanks to the use of the waters of the Pônsul River. Very close to the route, you can visit the Igreja Matriz de Ladoeiro, the town's main historic building.

Upon arriving in Ladoeiro we reach the point that marks the end of the section.

Final del tramo

Tramo 25: Ladoeiro - N18-8 (25 Km)

The route leaves Ladoeiro via the M554 to head into one of the loneliest stretches of the entire stage. The road is in good condition and flows very smoothly, made up of long straights linked by gentle bends that invite a relaxed ride. Traffic is usually very light, making it possible to savor the silence and the vastness of the landscape that are so characteristic of this part of the Beira Baixa.

The surroundings are dominated by extensive holm oak dehesas, traditional olive groves, and farmland interspersed with small patches of Mediterranean woodland. The feeling of openness is constant, with wide horizons and gentle rolling terrain that contrast with the mountain ranges crossed during the first half of the stage.

Along the way we will stay very close to the border with Spain, although on this occasion the separation between the two countries is almost imperceptible in the landscape. For centuries, these borderlands have shared ways of life, trade, and traditions, giving rise to a common identity that can still be felt today in many of the villages on both sides of the frontier.

The road passes through the surroundings of Monforte da Beira, a small town of medieval origin whose main attraction is the Igreja Matriz de Monforte da Beira and its ensemble of traditional granite architecture. Very close to the town center, you can also see old mills and rural buildings linked to the area’s agricultural activity.

The rest of the route continues between farmland and practically uninhabited dehesas, offering calm and very pleasant riding until the end of the stretch is reached.

When we reach the T-junction, we must turn right to join the N18-8 and continue the route.

Final del tramo

Tramo 26: N18-8 - CASTELO BRANCO (12 Km)

The last kilometers of this first stage run along the N18-8 in the direction of Castelo Branco. The road is impeccably surfaced and has a very pleasant layout, alternating broad bends with well-flowing straights that let you enjoy a relaxed ride. Traffic is usually moderate, and the landscape gradually changes once again, leaving the wide plains behind and giving way to a greener, more wooded setting.

For much of the route we will travel alongside the Parque Natural do Tejo Internacional, one of the most important protected areas in Portugal. Shared with Spain, this park protects the spectacular valley of the Tagus River and is a refuge for numerous species of birds of prey such as the black vulture, the Spanish imperial eagle or the black stork, making it one of the best places on the peninsula for wildlife watching.

Shortly afterwards we will cross the Ponte sobre o Rio Pônsul, where the scenery becomes especially appealing thanks to the riverside vegetation and the natural surroundings that envelop this tributary of the Tagus.

As we approach Castelo Branco, the road widens and the first housing developments and residential areas of the city appear. We will enter one of the main urban centers in the interior of Portugal, known for its important historical and cultural heritage.

The end of this stage invites us to spend some time discovering some of the city’s great attractions, such as the Jardim do Paço Episcopal, considered one of the most beautiful Baroque gardens in Portugal; the Castelo de Castelo Branco, the city’s medieval origin; the Museu Francisco Tavares Proença Júnior, dedicated to the history and art of the region; or the lively historic center, where it is well worth strolling among cobbled streets, squares and traditional buildings before bringing this first day of A Rota 18 to a close.

The stage ends upon arrival in Castelo Branco, the final point of a journey of just over 400 kilometers that has allowed us to discover some of the most varied and surprising landscapes in central Portugal.

Final del tramo