W A T E R S P O R T S

The five reservoirs are ideal for water-sports. Probably the most beautiful is the Alto Rabagão (Pisões), the second biggest reservoir in the country. But the others, amongst which the Venda Nova, Salamonde and Alto Cávado, are equally suitable for those loving sun and water-sports. You can water-ski, swim, sail and canoe to your hearts content.. Zoom In  Photographs

T R A D I T I O N S

Bullfights – No, not the bloodthirsty pastime you know from Spain. Barroso’s favourite sport is an innocent fight between two bulls. After about 10 minutes usually one of the two runs off, exhausted, which leaves one winner and one loser. During the summer there is an annual championship in which the Barroso-bulls show their strength. Zoom In Stick-game - For as long as can be remembered, the Barroso-inhabitants have covered long distances by foot using a stick. These were not just the shepherds but also anyone visiting family or friends. Only the Morgados, owners of large agricultural businesses, travel on horseback.  A dog is also always brought along on these walks, a faithful companion in case of danger. Besides for leaning on, the stick is also used as a means of defence. People used an old form of fencing against robbers. From the 1930’s to the 1950’s disputes at market places and feasts were all to often fought out in big groups, armed with their inseparable sticks. Nowadays stick-fighting is only done as a sport.  Zoom In

E X - T R E E M

Paragling and hang-gliding – Larouco is the second highest mountain range in Portugal and is ideal for hang-gliding and paragling. The first efforts here were only four years ago. Now the club Papaventos organises several national and international championships together with other clubs. The national championships, the Spanish championships, the Portuguese-cup, the Luso-Galaico-cup and the World Championships. By air is not the only way to travel there! Horseback riding is also a way to discover the many shades of green in the peaceful valleys. The pure air holds the scents of this area: the heather, the broom, and lots of other nature varieties. It will be an experience that will touch your heart. You will return after the ride feeling fit and relaxed.    Zoom In  Photographs   Climbing - There is not much climbing done in the Larouco. Yet there are many excellent locations for true climbers. The enormous rock-formations are a challenge. But one can also abseil from the towers of the castles. Which is definitely a must for those seeking adventure.  Zoom In   Mountain biking - Montalegre’s mountain-like surroundings are perfect for an active bike-ride. It’s a good way to enjoy the beautiful nature and to see the culture and traditions of the inhabitants, as you will discover many mountain-villages with churches and delightful steeples. This all makes for an unforgettable bike-ride. Zoom In Photographs

M I S C E L L A N Y

Sport fishing - There are immense fishing-waters in this area. Apart from five reservoirs there is the Cávado-river and many mountain streams. Amongst fish found here are trout and carp. The fishing-season is from March 1st to July 31st for the rivers and mountain-streams, and from April 1st to September 30th for the reservoirs. Zoom In Photographs Hunting - Montalegre is a perfect region for fishing and hunting. Hunting is allowed in allocated areas. A hunting-permit is required. Local game is the partridge, duck, moorhen, hare, wild rabbit, fox and the all-time favourite wild boar. Game passing through is the turtledove, dove, quail and the snipe. The government’s hunting-calendar shows which other animals it is permitted to hunt. Zoom In Photographs HORSERIDING Zoom In Walking - Nothing is more relaxing than a walk through the unspoilt nature of Montalegre. This is the place to get in touch with nature and man’s lost roots. Those who have crossed the mountain ranges of Gerês, Larouco, Mourilhe or Alturas will agree: these tops are the highlights in every holiday. Zoom In Photographs