“The pilgrimage routes to São Bento da Porta Aberta originate all over the Minho region, with a predominantly religious motivation, but sometimes also a recreational one. Given the various paths that exist in NUT III Cávado, the challenge was to define a main path that would unite the territory of Cávado, from Esposende to São Bento da Porta Aberta, with about 70km, and 3 variant paths, thus uniting the 6 councils of NUT III Cávado. The pilgrims and walkers who take them are invariably graced with a rich cultural and natural heritage, with a unique natural landscape that culminates in the Sanctuary of São Bento da Porta Aberta, located in the municipality of Terras de Bouro, in the heart of the Peneda Gerês National Park.”
One of the main routes passes by the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Abadia, visiting the various chapels that lead to the Sanctuary of São Bento da Porta Aberta.
(Source: CIM Cávado)
GUIA DO PEREGRINO: https://www.cimcavado.pt/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/GUIA_CSB_.pdf
The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Abadia, a privileged area where nature reigns supreme, offers visitors two paths that are widely used by pilgrims and hikers. Along the way there are several fountains where visitors can refresh themselves from the steep climb. This path is of moderate difficulty.
Another path that complements the general route is the Formigueiro Path. This path has a lesser degree of difficulty, but offers the same charm.