Walking tours in historic villages

HISTORIC VILLAGES

Historic Villages of Guarda and Castelo Branco

In Portugal's central and northern interior, there are still a number of towns and villages that are important reminders of ancient traditions. This guide describes the most emblematic historic villages in this region, to help you learn about their history and rich heritage.

HISTORICAL WALK

Trancoso Walk (long version)

Trancoso was an important border location in the Middle Ages due to its proximity to the Douro River. Find out about its rich cultural history and enjoy a walk through the beautiful countryside.

CULTURAL WALK

The Essentials of Almeida

Almeida is a notable example of modern fortification in Europe, built from the 16th century onwards. This walk will take you through the lanes of the old town and along the walkways of the fortified circuit.

CULTURAL WALK

The Essentials of Belmonte

The village of Belmonte was already inhabited in Prehistory and its former border condition led to the construction of the castle at the end of the 12th century. This walk will take you through the streets of Belmonte to discover its most interesting places and learn about its stories and legends.

HISTORICAL WALK

Monsanto Walk

The "most Portuguese village in Portugal" with its Templar-founded castle and granite houses built between enormous boulders never cease to amaze visitors. This energizing 4km walk will reveal all that, and more.

HISTORICAL WALK

Marialva Walk

Marialva is made up of three independent nuclei: the Citadel, the Arrabalde and the Devesa, which is based on the ancient Roman city. In this walk, you'll learn about Marialva's history and you'll get to enjoy its beautiful surroundings as you hike along ancient trails.

HISTORICAL WALK

Trancoso Walk (short version)

Trancoso was an important border location in the Middle Ages due to its proximity to the Douro River. Find out about its rich cultural history and enjoy a walk through the beautiful countryside.

HISTORICAL WALK

Castelo Mendo Walk

The typical village of Castelo Mendo remains well preserved with its houses of popular architecture and small old alleys. In this tour, you will learn about the stories and places of Castelo Mendo and enjoy a walk through the beautiful countryside.

HISTORICAL WALK

Sortelha Walk

Visiting Sortelha is like traveling back in time 500 years. Stroll through the car-free village and discover its various points of interest. After visiting the village, enjoy an invigorating 2km walk through the magnificent surrounding area.

HISTORICAL WALK

Penha Garcia Walk

Penha Garcia has been inhabited since Prehistory and the medieval fortress shows how strategic this place was. In this tour you will explore the village and discover the Pônsul valley, which offers spectacular panoramic views and exceptional marine fossils dating back nearly 500 million years.

HISTORICAL WALK

Moreira de Rei Walk

Moreira de Rei, once one of the most significant poles of the regio, is dominated by its castle. In this walk you will learn about the history and points of interest of Moreira do Rei and enjoy the beautiful countryside scenery.

CULTURAL WALK

The Essentials of Castelo Rodrigo

Few Portuguese villages have the privileged and picturesque situation of Castelo Rodrigo with its imposing walls and steep, narrow streets. This short walk will show you the most interesting parts of this medieval village.

HISTORICAL WALK

Linhares da Beira Walk

The village of Linhares da Beira still retains today the charm of an almost intact medieval village. In this tour, you will learn about the rich history of this old village and take a walk through the beautiful countryside of Beira Interior and along an old Roman road.

HISTORICAL WALK

Castelo Novo Walk

The Romanesque castle is its most important monument, but other testimonies of the past deserve attention. In this tour, you'll learn about the history and points of interest of this historic village and take a short walk to enjoy its beautiful natural surroundings.

CULTURAL WALK

The Essentials of Idanha-a-Velha

The tranquil village of Idanha-a-Velha hides a rich historical history with Roman origins. This short tour will take you through the lanes of Idanha-a-Velha, where you will learn about the city's historical, cultural, and archaeological sites as well as the Pônsul River.