The best walks and hikes around Selho (São Lourenço)
4.4
(144)
786
hikers
25
hikes
Hiking trails around Selho (São Lourenço) are situated within the verdant municipality of Guimarães, Portugal. The region features pleasant riverside areas along the Selho River, offering tranquil paths through green countryside. Historical landmarks such as a Roman Bridge and old mills are integrated into the landscape, providing points of interest for hikers. The terrain primarily consists of gentle slopes and established paths, suitable for various activity levels.
Best hiking trails around Selho (São Lourenço)
- The most popular hiking route is…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4.6
(39)
225
hikers
5.73km
01:34
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(11)
22
hikers
9.74km
03:09
410m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(7)
35
hikers
12.1km
03:47
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(5)
47
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
10
hikers
12.8km
04:00
470m
470m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Santiago Square, also known as São Tiago Square (Portuguese: Praça de Santiago), is a medieval city square in Guimarães. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the historic center of Guimarães. According to tradition, the Apostle James (São Tiago in Portuguese) brought an image of the Virgin Mary to Guimarães and placed it in a pagan temple in a square that was later named St. Tiago Square. Santiago Square is mentioned in numerous documents over several centuries and has retained many of its medieval features to this day. The now romanticized and photogenic medieval houses were once considered squalid and unhygienic. The space they occupied was long regarded as an "undignified" place.
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A site well worth seeing. It looks more impressive from a distance than up close.
1
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The small chapel is carved entirely out of stone.
0
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The very modern church towers over the city. Along with the rest of the complex on the hill, it's worth seeing.
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Fascinating landscape. The entire complex is beautifully designed, and everything is connected by paths between the stones (which look like oversized pebbles). The entire area is easily accessible by cable car and offers excellent dining options. There are restaurants and cafés to suit every taste. But there are also plenty of benches and tables among the stones for enjoying your own picnic.
0
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From the plateau you have a very beautiful view of the valley and the city
0
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Beautiful view of the church.
1
1
A detailed plan of the complex with explanations can be found here: https://campanha.cmjornal.pt/portugal-monumental/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Selho (São Lourenço)?
There are over 25 hiking trails around Selho (São Lourenço) documented on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, with 12 easy and 13 moderate options, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Selho (São Lourenço)?
Hikes in Selho (São Lourenço) primarily feature pleasant riverside paths along the Selho River and trails through lush green countryside. The terrain generally consists of gentle slopes and established paths, making it suitable for leisurely walks and moderate excursions.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Selho (São Lourenço)?
Yes, many of the trails are suitable for families. The region's gentle slopes and scenic riverside areas provide a pleasant environment for walks with children. Routes like the Guimarães Castle – Oliveira Square, Guimarães loop from Guimarães are easy and explore historical sites, which can be engaging for all ages.
What historical landmarks can I see while hiking in the area?
Selho (São Lourenço) is rich in historical significance. You can incorporate sights like a Roman Bridge, the Parish Church, the Chapel of São João, traditional 'Cruzeiros' (stone crosses), 'Alminhas' (small shrines), and old mills into your walks. Nearby, you can also explore attractions such as the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza or Oliveira Square, Guimarães.
Are there any circular walks available?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks. For example, the easy Salado Monument – Guimarães Castle loop from Guimarães takes you through historical cityscapes, while the moderate View of Guimarães from Penha – Penha Sanctuary loop from Guimarães offers scenic views and leads to a sanctuary.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Selho (São Lourenço)?
The trails around Selho (São Lourenço) are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 120 reviews. Hikers often praise the pleasant riverside environments, the lush green countryside, and the opportunity to explore historical structures, making for an engaging outdoor experience.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the trails?
While Selho (São Lourenço) itself doesn't have dramatic mountain ranges, its location within the Guimarães municipality means that some routes, particularly those leading to higher ground, offer picturesque views. The View of Guimarães from Penha – Penha Sanctuary loop from Guimarães is a notable moderate trail that provides excellent vistas of Guimarães and the surrounding landscape.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Selho (São Lourenço)?
The region's generally verdant landscape makes it pleasant for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, but riverside walks provide cooler options. Winter hiking is possible, though paths might be damp.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in the area?
For those seeking a longer, moderate challenge, the Penha Sanctuary – Boulder Labyrinth loop from Guimarães is a great option. This 12.1 km route involves more elevation gain and explores the natural features around Penha Sanctuary, offering a more extensive excursion.
Can I find easy routes suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Selho (São Lourenço) offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed stroll. The Salado Monument – Palace of the Dukes of Braganza loop from Guimarães is a short, easy walk through historical cityscapes, ideal for a gentle introduction to hiking in the area.
Are there places to relax or have a picnic along the trails?
Yes, the presence of a dedicated 'Zona de Recreio e Lazer' (Recreation and Leisure Zone) in Selho (São Lourenço) indicates facilities and maintained areas suitable for starting or ending a hike, or for enjoying a break amidst nature. Riverside areas also provide tranquil spots for picnics.
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