Moinhos da Ribeira Funda

Moinhos da Ribeira Funda is a 3.2-kilometre circuit descending from the village into a narrow north-coast valley. From the chapel, pasture and forest paths follow the stream and approach Moinho do Crim. Ruins, channels and walls show how water was directed to turn millstones, converting a damp valley into a place of production.

Farther down are more mills and a bridge near the connection with PR27SMI. Small waterfalls and the stream mouth add natural landmarks to this collection of rural archaeology. The most exposed section reaches Rocha do Padre do Norte on a stairway above the sea. Here the broken coast, cliffs and ocean contrast with the shade and running water encountered inside the valley.

The return climb crosses woodland and agricultural ground back to Ribeira Funda. Despite its short distance, the medium rating and estimated two hours reflect steps, elevation change, moisture and coastal exposure. The route reveals the mills as components of a wider system—stream, channels, access paths and fields—rather than isolated ruins. Understanding that landscape requires remaining on the trail without entering unstable structures or seeking informal approaches to the waterfalls.

Begin beside Ribeira Funda chapel and follow the circuit through pasture and woodland into the valley. Descend beside Moinho do Crim, water channels and the remaining mill groups. At the bridge, check the PRC35SMI waymarks and do not switch to PR27SMI. Continue towards the stream mouth and use the marked Rocha do Padre do Norte stairway. The return branch climbs on the indicated side, crosses agricultural ground again and finishes beside the chapel. Allow about two hours to complete the 3.2-kilometre circuit and keep a margin of daylight, including time for signed branches and stops.