Trilhos do Paleozoico

Este ano o final do percurso estava mais bonito, a terminar em trilho quase até ao final.
Prova bem organizada.

Trilhos do Paleozóico 23km. A Trail that starts in Valongo, climbs to the top of Santa Justa Mountain (passing by Santa Justa Chapel), mostly earth tracks with some rocks/gravel, then passes through on the margins of a wet/dry waterstream with nice vegetation, goes around the Paleozoic Park where we can see several rocky formations on the edges of the river Rio Ferreira, with some single tracks, and again track with stones/littlerocks/gravel. Then descends into the pictoresque village Aldeia de Couce crossing a bridge over Ferreira river, then going on the margins of the river with nice views and vegetation. Some easy climbs, then passing by a Cannyon like view, one of the hardest (fortunately not too long) climbs with steep inclination at the Pias Mountain. Then descends passing by an impressive Slate Quarry (Pedreira de Ardósia), and passing again river Ferreira in a fun Indiana Jones like bridge. Then a few rock climbs and terrain with edgy rocks. Then another steep climb on Santa Justa Mountain with technical ground and some rocky landscapes. Then down again to Aldeia de Couce village, and then the most demanding climb, called Santa Justa Elevator, a near 300 meters elevation gain in 1,7km, very hard with high inclination and several segments with technical rocks ground. And finally an easy descent back to Valongo to the finish line. Great organization, very good intermediate and final refreshments. Overall many great views and landscapes, although some areas afected by abusive eucalyptus planting whose landscape not as good as the other more beautiful areas with pine trees and diverse native vegetation. Very nice t-shirt in the kit. Overall an excellent organization and Trailrunning event.

Percurso muito surpreendente de trilhos (mesmo para atletas que correm habitualmente na serra de Valongo), com single tracks junto ao rio, lagoas, corrida com os pés em cursos de água, trilhos técnicos por pedras imponentes, vistas panorâmicas e cenários fantásticos de natureza.
Parabéns à organização! Mostrou, mais uma vez, a sua excelência no palco do Trail.👌

Já é a quarta vez que participo nesta prova e gosto muito. Uma prova ao meu gosto: poucas partes técnicas, algumas subidas difíceis e com partes onde consigo realmente correr. Não é uma prova fácil. A prova está bem sinalizada. O único ponto negativo que saliento é na parte onde esta prova se junta com os 12km e a caminhada, pois, tem partes que nos obriga a abrandar. Os abastecimentos têm o necessário. A t-shirt é de boa qualidade. A organização esteve sempre disponível para ajudar.

Great landscape, medium dificulty

Last weekend, I participated in the Trilhos do Paleozóico, and the experience was fantastic! The organization was impeccable, from the collection of the kit to the marking of the course.

The route was challenging in the right way, with technical climbs, exciting descents. The diversity of the terrain made the race even more interesting, demanding strategy.

Another positive point was the support offered along the route. The hydration stations were well distributed and stocked, ensuring that everyone could stay well during the race.

When I crossed the finish line, I was greeted with a beautiful medal and a very well-organized post-race structure. The atmosphere among the runners was sensational, reinforcing the community spirit that only trail running provides.

Without a doubt, a race that I recommend and that has already been added to my calendar for next year!