If you’re a fan of nature and sports tourism attractions, get ready to ‘discover’ the latest novelty in Greater Porto: the Cuca Macuca staircase, located in the municipality of Valongo.
Although it has been accessible to the public since February 2023, the project was only recently completed and was formally inaugurated at the end of March with the completion of the parking lot and signage.
What’s so special about Cuca Macuca?
First of all, the name catches the eye due to its peculiarity, but we’ll come to that in a moment. For now, it’s time to discover Greater Porto’s latest tourist attraction.
In all, the staircase consists of 775 steps over a length of 1.5 kilometers , connecting the urban center of Valongo, from Rua de Ivanta, and the top of the Serra de Santa Justa.
With free access, the route promises to literally take your breath away. Firstly, because of the effort involved in climbing so many steps. And then, because the route ends near the Santa Justa Chapel, with breathtaking views.
Points of interest
The Cuca Macuca staircase offers an experience in the middle of nature as it crosses the mountains, passing through native woods and community conservation habitats.
However, as well as delighting in the greenery, there are other points of interest. For example, the route passes through an archaeological area and mining cavities that date back to the auriferous exploitation of the Romans.
To finish on a high note, when you reach the top there’s a viewpoint overlooking the coastline. So, nature, history, sport and tranquillity, there’s almost nothing missing.
The origin of the name Cuca Macuca
The peculiar name – although not as much as Baloiço do Cu Grande, in the municipality of Gondomar – is related to the ancient toponymy attributed to the highest point in the mountains.
Other information
The project is part of “Valongo in Outdoor”, promoted by Valongo City Council, with the support of European funds and within the protected areas of the Natura 2000 Network and the Serra do Porto Park.
To achieve this result, the total investment was around 985,000 euros, of which around 796,000 went towards building the photogenic wooden staircase.
How to get there
If you live in Porto, then the distance is relatively short. It’s only 15 kilometers from the center of Porto to Cuca Macuca .
To get there by car, take the A4 in the direction of Valongo, following the signs for Rua da Ivanta, where you’ll find the parking lot to access the staircase.
With this staircase, the district of Porto has gained yet another natural tourist attraction, like the recently opened Lourido Wire Bridge. Have you decided on your next outdoor destination?