LIFE MARONESA is a Governance, Information, and Climate Action project aimed at implementing climate change adaptation strategies through a sustainable extensive livestock farming model.The project addresses key challenges such as:The abandonment of mountain pastures, particularly in communal land areas.The increasing intensity of rural summer wildfires.The reduction of carbon stock stored in soil organic matter in mountain areas.The decline of the Maronesa cattle breed population.Main GoalTo enhance climate resilience in livestock farms and increase carbon retention in soil organic matter.
LIFE MARONESA is based on a demonstration model showcasing sustainable agricultural and livestock practices implemented by a pioneering farmer. These practices are being replicated in four intervention areas, where local farmers adopt and implement the model.Intervention AreasThe project operates in the four municipalities most representative of the Maronesa Cattle Breed region:Vila Pouca de Aguiar, Vila Real, Ribeira de Pena, and Mondim de Basto—the area with the highest concentration of Maronesa cattle farms.
Explore the LIFE MARONESA Experience Join a unique guided tour and discover the landscapes, traditions, and sustainable farming practices of the Maronesa cattle breed. Choose your preferred route and book your spot today!
Route 1 – Photographic Walk in Alvadia
“Exploring Landscapes and Pastoral Activities”Walking tour starting at Alvadia Church.Guided visit to a Maronesa cattle and wild goat farm.Duration: 3h30 + lunch.Best season: All year round.
Route 2 – Interpretative Walk in Souto and Outeiro
Extensive Grazing and Mountain Regeneration”Circular trail (Souto – Outeiro – Soutelinho – Carrica – Souto).Starting point: Soutelinho do Mezio.Guided visit to Casal da Bouça farm.Duration: Half-day + lunch with local products.Best season: All year round.
Route 3 – Interpretative Walk in Bilhó “In the Forest of Happy Cows”
Guided visit to Rafael Costa & Mário Queirós’ farm.Circular trail, starting at Santa Bárbara de Travassos Chapel.Duration: Half-day + lunch with local products.Best season: Spring/Summer.
Route 4 – Photographic Walk in Lamas de Ôlo “Cows, Butterflies, and People”
Guided visit to Heitor Fernandes’ farm.Circular interpretative walking tour, starting at the parking area at the entrance of Lamas de Ôlo village.Duration: Half-day + meal with local products.Best season: Spring/Summer.
All experiences are developed by Clima+, managed by the LIFE Maronesa / AguiarFloresta project.