Between two granite slabs in Barranha, the Percurso do Dão begins at the spot that has been regarded as the source of the Dão for centuries. From there, the route leads through a small pine forest to the Capela do Senhor do Castelinho and offers views of the mountain ranges to the east. In Eirado, these features bring together a specific spring, a described route and a building with distinctive granite details. They give visitors different points of focus: the river’s source, the landscape or the architecture.

The spring and the route

Barranha is a locality within the Freguesia of Eirado, and the source of the Rio Dão is located there. Between the granite slabs is the spot traditionally regarded as the source for centuries. The Percurso do Dão begins right here. Its starting point is therefore rooted in a specific local landmark, and the route continues from there through the small pine forest to the chapel. Views of the mountain ranges to the east add a landscape perspective to the route.

If you are mainly interested in identifying the river’s source, the spring is the notable landmark. If you would like to combine landscape and architecture, both feature along the Percurso: the pine forest, mountain views and the named destination, the Capela do Senhor do Castelinho. So there are not several described routes to choose from, but different interests to pursue along the same route.

Granite details and cultural heritage

The Capela do Senhor do Castelinho was built in 1734. Its granite porch has eight carved pillars; an image is also carved into a granite slab that stands there. These details show granite in two forms: as worked pillars on the porch and as a rock face bearing a carved motif. This means the chapel can be appreciated not only for its year of construction, but also for its connection with the stone. Along the Percurso do Dão, it is a specific architectural landmark alongside the forest and the views.

Eirado itself also has a range of notable local features. On the corner of Rua Torta is a sculpted face representing Eirado. A typical cobbled lane leads to a square with plenty to see. Other cultural heritage sites mentioned in the Freguesia of Eirado include the Igreja Matriz, Penedo da Sela and the Chafariz de Eirado. These features complement the chapel’s granite details with sculpture, streetscapes and other heritage sites.

Two seasonal events

An outdoor field mass is held every year on 15 August at the Capela de Santo Amaro in Eirado. If you are planning your stay around this date, it is advisable to confirm the exact date locally.

Another seasonal event is “Vamos aos Míscaros.” Participants can gather míscaros together with local foragers. The event is usually held on the first Sunday in November in Barranha, in the Freguesia of Eirado and the municipality of Aguiar da Beira. You should confirm the upcoming date locally.

Gathering is part of a community programme that includes a shared lunch featuring the traditional arroz de míscaros and other specialities, a traditional magusto, musical entertainment and a market selling local products. The November event has a different focus from the field mass in August: it features foraging, food and local products, while the August event is the annual outdoor service.

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