Historical Villages, Portuguese Traditions and History in 2 days

Day 1: Idanha-a-Velha and Monsanto

1. Idanha-a-Velha
   2h
   he village’s history begins since
   the Roman period, when the famous Egitânia was erected
   and left a rich archaeological heritage for posterity.
   It is a story written in stone and preserved in the
   Epigraphic Archive, which houses one of the most
   complete collections of its kind in Portugal. A short
   walk allows you to enter a monumental universe where
   you can ind the Roman wall, Sé Cathedral, the Templar
   Tower, or an oil mill, from a more recent period.
   But no visit is complete without looking at the Pônsul
   river, which runs calmly under the Roman bridge
   on its way to Tejo.
2. Monsanto
   4h
   Monsanto is not a common place. Decades ago it was
   chosen “the most Portuguese village of Portugal.”
   A fair distinction for a village that is the expression
   of the ingenuity and resilience of its people.
   he Monsanto construction, on an inhospitable granite
   slope, lasted centuries and was built under the harshest
   conditions. he work was worth it because today
   the Portuguese people have an unparalleled village
   to admire. And to be proud of.
   here is much to see in Monsanto. he narrow, welcoming
   streets that slither among the rocks. he houses lodged
   in the rocks, testimony to the ingenuity of the people.
   he steep slopes that lead to the castle and provide
   unforgettable walks. All of this without mentioning the
   preserved heritage in the scenery, customs, and aromas.
   And, of course, the people. Because they are one
   of Monsanto’s enchantments.

Day 2: Sortelha and Belmonte

1. Sortelha
   3h
   Sortelha produces an ambiguous sense: the visitor knows
   they are immersed in the past but has the sensation
   that the village resisted the passage of the centuries
   unharmed. It’s necessary to retreat to the Neolithic in order
   to ind the irst signs of occupation, but the constructions
   are so well-conserved that it seems as though they were
   constructed yesterday. Sortelha requires a calmly planned
   itinerary. here is much to see. he houses, pillory, false door,
   church, or the Old Lady’s Head are some of the attractions.
   But it’s the castle, built in the 13th century, that dominates
   the scenery.
2. Belmonte
   3h
   he top of the castle, the windows and sculptures
   provide a wide view of the green landscape. Cova da
   Beira is framed by Serra da Estrela in the background.
   At the foot, the houses alternate with wide roads
   or narrow lanes that open up to visitors, ready to reveal
   their secrets. Churches, synagogues, and museums
   give the tone for an intense visit in experiences.
   A simple stroll through Belmonte brings memorable
   moments. Feel the hustle and bustle of everyday life
   in the village. Savor unexpected discoveries at every
   corner. Follow the pulse of a life that asks for
   a moment of contemplation. All this, of course,
   with the friendliness of the locals set in the background.
   After passing through Belmonte, the memories
   and a desire to return always remain.

Pickup details

We will pick-up from Lisbon Region, Cascais or Sintra.
We offer as optional the one-way version with pick-up in Lisbon and drop-off in Porto and with the pick-up in Porto and drop-off in Lisbon
Please inform the pick-up time you would like and the pick-up address.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• After booking contact us with your pick-up address if not listed
• Inform us if you are traveling with children, to organize the proper toddler seats.