Paredes de Coura to Ponte de Lima Road Through Corno do Bico Protected Landscape

The road runs in the northern part of Portugal, connecting the town of Paredes de Coura to Ponte de Lima. Both towns are situated in the district of Viana do Castelo, a region known for its green landscapes and historical sites. The route traverses the Paisagem Protegida do Corno do Bico, a protected landscape area that preserves the natural environment and offers several viewpoints. The road's elevation varies from approximately 15 meters (49 feet) near the lower sections to 573 meters (1,880 feet) at its highest points, providing riders with a diverse riding experience. An interactive map showing the exact road section discussed is available at the end of this article.

The road is approximately 20.5 kilometers (12.7 miles) long and is surfaced with asphalt of good quality, rated at about 4.1 out of 5. It is predominantly a two-lane road (about 98% of its length) with a width that is mostly wide (about 91%), allowing comfortable passage for motorcycles and other vehicles. The road is moderately curvy, with a curviness rating of 1.43 on a scale where 3 indicates extreme twistiness. Riders can expect a mix of gentle bends and some sharper turns, making it engaging without being overly technical.

About 10.8% of the road passes through inhabited areas, primarily small settlements such as Estrada da Coqueira, Estrada das Corredouras, Estrada de Peneirade, Estrada da Redonda, Estrada da Vista Alegre, Estrada das Felgueiras, and Estrada de Chousos. The road skirts and passes through the protected landscape of Corno do Bico, which adds to the natural appeal of the ride.

The route intersects with the Paisagem Protegida do Corno do Bico, a protected landscape area recognized for its ecological value and scenic viewpoints. This area is part of the Natura 2000 network, which aims to preserve habitats and species of European importance. Riders will find opportunities to stop and appreciate the natural surroundings, including viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the region's hills and valleys.

More information about the protected landscape can be found on the official website of the Paisagem Protegida do Corno do Bico and the Natura 2000 site at Natura 2000 Corno do Bico.

There are no known seasonal closures or event-related restrictions affecting this road for motorcycles. The route is accessible year-round, although weather conditions typical of northern Portugal should be considered when planning a ride. There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with this road or the protected landscape it passes through. However, toll policies may change, and riders are advised to consult official Portuguese road authorities for the latest information.

For general information on road tolls and fees in Portugal, the official website of Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes provides up-to-date details.

This road section between Paredes de Coura and Ponte de Lima offers a moderately twisty, well-maintained asphalt route through a protected natural landscape. It is suitable for riders looking for a combination of natural beauty and manageable road complexity. The route's proximity to viewpoints and the protected area enhances the riding experience without introducing significant technical challenges.

An interactive map illustrating the road section discussed in this article is provided below for reference.