Between the sea and the mountains, the treasures of the
Center of Portugal are hidden. Treasures like Coimbra, known as the City of Students, thanks to the University. It is one of the oldest in the world operating. Visitors have the opportunity to observe secular rituals, such as the annual student Serenade, while discovering the treasures of Portugal's history: the imposing Old Cathedral and the majestic Monastery of Santa Clara. It is also an excellent starting point to discover the history and culture of Portugal. On the coast we come across white sand beaches and incredible natural landscapes as a background. On beaches like Figueira da Foz, Nazaré and Peniche – it is important to enjoy and relax for a couple of hours in the sun.
There, you can enjoy a good lunch, take a stroll to the sound of the sea song or have fun playing many of the watersports available. With the refreshing breeze of the Atlantic Ocean, these beaches are wonderful stops for an adventure along the
Portuguese coast. Dare to cross the gates of Óbidos Castle to discover this invaluable and picturesque medieval village. From Manuelinos (architectural style) porches to flowery windows, this village will win your heart for its simplicity, history and charm, qualities shown in its streets and many churches, examples of the golden ages.
Between forests and plains, it is a region in love with nature, a heyday of biodiversity and where a getaway to the mountains is always the perfect adventure. Examples are the
Estrela mountain range, where the glacial valleys are millennial and the green zones are the largest in the country. Here you will find the highest point of mainland Portugal, and the silence and the peace of the mountains, perfect for reflection. There is fun for the whole family whether you are enjoying the river beaches or
walking one of the many trails that allow you to explore this rustic but noble natural space.
Another example is the Tejo International Natural Park that offers a gradual transition between the mountains of the Center of Portugal and the plains of the Alentejo with the scenic beauty of the Tejo river. Finding in its deep valleys almost 400 varieties of species, most of them birds, like black storks (symbol of the Park). The Tejo International Natural Park is one of the most important Portuguese protected areas. Here, you can also find opportunities for active tourism with walking routes, climbing or canoeing and even
mountain biking and cycling trails that will lead you to the treasures of the Center of Portugal.
There are other treasures like the
Historical Villages of Portugal. Small points on the map, but important points in the History of Portugal, as part of the oldest European frontier. Small towns and villages such as Belmonte, a singular case in Peninsular territory with centuries of permanence of the Hebrew culture and tradition; or Castelo Rodrigo, stage of old disputes between Portugal and the Castilian neighbors in the defense of the Portuguese territory. All the villages of the Center of Portugal have a different history to discover, between castles and walls, snacks and gourmet gastronomy, centenary traditions and the latest trends.
Another example is the
Schist Villages, where you can get lost in shepherds' trails and restore yourself with the fresh air and the breathtaking views. Find villages such as Ferraria de São João, a great example where rurality and nature tourism coexist in a beautiful landscape and rich culture through activities, such as workshops of fresh goat cheese or bread in a wood-fired oven, and strolling along the tracks of the BTT Center; or the village of Gondramaz with a route accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, which allows them to get lost in the melody of the narrow and winding streets of this land of craftsmen. Guaranteed on any trip through these villages is the level of fun, whether you are experiencing great thrills on
mountain biking or a more relaxed stroll, while you get to know the villages and the surrounding nature.
The
Camino de Fátima, located in Center of Portugal, is a revered pilgrimage route that attracts devout Catholics and curious travelers alike. Stretching across picturesque landscapes, this pilgrimage follows in the footsteps of those who seek the spiritual solace of Fátima, a small town where, in 1917, three shepherd children claimed to have witnessed apparitions of the Virgin Mary. The journey typically begins in Lisbon or other major cities and winds through charming villages, lush forests, and rolling hills. Pilgrims are greeted with a profound sense of serenity as they traverse these paths, making it an opportunity for both spiritual reflection and a deep connection with the natural beauty of Portugal.
Along the Camino de Fátima, pilgrims encounter numerous chapels, statues, and shrines dedicated to Our Lady of Fátima, providing moments for prayer and contemplation. Whether motivated by religious devotion or a desire for personal exploration, this ancient route offers a unique blend of cultural, spiritual, and natural experiences. The Camino de Fátima stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the profound connection between humanity and the divine.
