The paths along the Mondego River are the easiest and flattest run in Coimbra. The several km of paths are a combination of pedestrian walkways and cycle paths, with loop options involving a couple of the bridges — including the pedestrian Ponte Pedonal Pedro e Inês.   [Ponte=bridge]

Our 7 km loop is centrally located, following both sides of the river between the Ponte Pedonal and the Açude-ponte. The east bank path follows the river (historic centre side) between Mondego Green Park, just south of the Ponte Pedonal, north to the Açude-ponte. Run through Parque da Cidade Manuel Braga — a lovely park lined with poplar trees — and then along the Passeio Ribeirinho de Aeminium, which is a dedicated waterfront promenade featuring great views of the river. At 2.6 km, cross the Açude bridge, using the pedestrian walkway.

The west bank of the river has a paved cycle path (Ciclovia) alongside it, with nice river views. Run south, passing through a couple of small parks. [Option: Running track at Estádio Universitário de Coimbra, just north of Pte Santa Clara.] Continue to a park just past the Pte. Pedonal, where there’s a popular outdoor swimming pool. Cross back over the bridge to the start.

Add-Ons: You can extend the run north into Choupal National Forest, which is ~0.5 km north of the Pte. Açude. Can also combine with our ‘runseeing’ tour.