Discover the history of the oldest European border. Dare yourself to wear the shoes of the great conquerors who claimed these lands for the Portuguese venture. Twelve villages spread across Central Portugal’s inland territory, each one more surprising than the one before. Mesmerizing landscapes, perfect desert roads and ancient trails and astonishing castles overlooking the Villages will be the “cherry on top” by the end of the day with A2Z.
Come and enjoy the privilege of hiking or walking along some of the most impressive Portuguese natural parks like Estrela Mountain, where the highest mountain of continental Portugal resides, or Faia Brava Private Protected Area, the first private conservation area in Portugal.
Great Route 22, aka GR22, will take you across these natural wonders and the iconic Historical Villages in a safe and pleasant journey thanks to its loop shape and the omnipresent marks.
The History of the Villages will certainly impress you. However, the pleasure of ending the day with the greetings of an ancient local inhabitant, still reflecting in is facing the hardness and the happiness of a life lived in harmony with the strengths of nature, is one of those moments that will make you smile of joy and gratitude.
The climax of tasting the local history will happen when you sit at the table and you discover flavors still in touch with is surroundings and odors that still remind you of the meadows. Even the clattering sounds coming from the kitchen may transport you back to the memories of slow cooking pans hoovering the fire.
Exploring the History, the traditions, the colors, the smells and the tastes of such a diverse territory and culture is an adventure one can only take on under the commitment of a slow journey and the award of achieving it through your effort. A2Z will be right behind you.
With its sunny weather year-round, Portugal is the ideal destination for an outdoors adventure holiday. And the options to explore it are endless! Whether you are looking to discover the country’s most popular sites or you want to take a detour and head off the beaten path, Portugal boasts a network of well-marked long-distance trails (called Grande Rotas) to take you exactly where you want to go. From the steep mountains to the deep river valleys and the breezy Atlantic Coast, our four favorite walks below will take you through some of Portugal’s most stunning landscapes and fascinating historical sites.
Where history is millenarian, culture enriches the soul and mind, and the landscapes are breathtaking, there is much not to miss in the Center of Portugal.
Come and discover very small points on the world map, which not only belong to the oldest European frontier, but they have also forever changed the destiny of a country.
