Our lovely, personable and knowledgeable guide for the trip, Silvia Aires from Turismo Centro de Portugal, set our agenda to start at the University of Coimbra. This also happens to be the highest point in the city. This hilltop positioning is no accident. Not only is height an excellent vantage point to see all of Coimbra and the River Mondego, but it is also a symbolic reference to the importance knowledge and education is placed in the heritage and pride of the Portuguese people.
“Schist” is a type of crystalline metamorphic stone. It is easily split, creating a flat surface. For centuries, this “horizontal” stone became the ideal building material to create weatherproof, secure houses. Today, many original homes made of schist still stand and are remain occupied by the residents of the village.
The Côa Valley, in central Portugal, is considered one of the most important rock art locations in the world. More than 70 sites can be found here, still in their original positions, displaying breath-taking engravings from prehistoric, protohistoric and historic times. In the heart of this culturally significant area is the Côa Museum.
Sitting on top of one of Portugal’s highest peaks is a resort hotel unlike any other in the country. It...
This collection of historic villages located on the eastern side of Central Portugal provides a unique escape from hectic urban life. Each village has its own distinctive character and is worthy of a day trip, weekend get-away or extended holiday.
Some of the best life experiences happen in some of the unlikeliest of places. This is most certainly true of...
At the heart of Aveiro is a river complete with gondolas (moliceiros) that evoke river travel of eras past, but provide entertainment for tourists in modern times. In the center of all this action is a hip little hotel that takes its name from the traditional boats, yet offers a modern design hotel experience.
Casas do Côro is the project of area entrepreneurs Paulo and Carmen Romão. Imagine a medieval village transformed into a...









