Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Graça

Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Graça, above the town of Mondim de Basto, is a Marian shrine crowning Monte Farinha at roughly 990 metres in northern Portugal. From the summit you look out over the ranges north of the Douro. It is also one of the best-known cycling landmarks in the country.

What is this place?

The shrine sits on a granite summit above the town, in the Terras de Basto region of Vila Real district. The building is Baroque, with a square bell tower, an octagonal central nave, and a rectangular chancel and sacristy. Inside, the altarpieces are carved and gilded wood in polychrome rococo style.

No one knows exactly when the site was founded. Local tradition says a pre-Roman settlement once stood here and that its ruined stones went into the sanctuary. That is legend, not established history. Another story tells of a hermit devoted to Our Lady who was killed near the rock called Pedra Alta and is said to lie buried by the shrine's stairway.

When should you visit?

Three main festivals draw the crowds each year:

• Ascension – the feast of Our Lady of Grace, held in May.
• 25 July – the old pilgrimage of St James, already recorded around 1500.
• First Sunday of September – the main annual pilgrimage, with thousands of pilgrims.

On those days the road to the top is busy. At other times the summit is quiet, and views are best on clear days. Check the exact May date with the parish, since sources disagree.

Why do cyclists come here?

The climb up Monte Farinha is about 8 kilometres and a classic of the Volta a Portugal, which has used it regularly since 1978. In 2025 stage nine, from Paredes to Mondim de Basto over 142.3 km, climbed the mountain twice for the first time before finishing at the shrine. Amateur riders tackle the same road all year.

How do you get there?

A paved road runs from Mondim de Basto to the summit and is open to cars. You can also hike up from town on marked trails, including a loop of about 14 km. Paragliders launch from the summit too. Bring a warm layer, because at nearly a thousand metres it is windier and cooler than in the valley.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive to the top? Yes, a paved road leads right up to the shrine. On pilgrimage days, allow extra time.

How long does the bike climb take? It is about 8 km. Time depends on fitness, and recreational riders usually plan for an hour or more.

Is there an entrance fee? No. It is a place of worship and free to visit. Confirm the church's opening hours with the parish.

What else is nearby? Mondim de Basto lies at the foot of the Alvão range. Walking trails and viewpoints surround the town.