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Christmas Villages
Itinerary: Piódão | Foz d'Égua | Cabeça
The Christmas Villages itinerary offers a unique experience where the beauty and traditions of Portugal’s historic villages come alive, blending the Christmas spirit with the authenticity of mountain life. Over the course of two days, we will visit Piódão, a village with a distinctive stone setting and enchanting charm, followed by Foz d'Égua, a magical place with breathtaking landscapes. In Cabeça, the “Sustainable Christmas Village,” we will experience a different kind of Christmas, decorated with natural materials, highlighting the ecological commitment and the welcoming simplicity of the region. A journey where nature, culture, and Christmas come together in perfect harmony.
PROGRAM:
Day 1: Piódão | Foz d'Égua
Morning: Arrival in Piódão, one of the most charming historic villages in Portugal, known as the "Nativity Village" for its unique slate and schist houses. The stacked houses on the mountain slopes, with blue doors and windows, create a fairy-tale scene, especially during Christmas time. Take a walk through the streets of Piódão to admire the typical architecture, visit the Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, and explore the local crafts. Lunch at a local restaurant to taste the region's traditional cuisine.
Afternoon: After lunch, head towards the village of Chãs d'Égua, a small locality near Piódão, offering stunning mountain scenery. Continue to Foz d'Égua, one of the most photogenic spots in the region. This charming village offers a unique view with its wooden bridges, crystal-clear streams, and a river beach that attracts visitors year-round. In winter, the landscape takes on an air of mystery and beauty, perfect for photography and moments of contemplation.
Evening: Dinner and accommodation in Piódão or nearby, where you can rest and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains.
Day 2: Cabeça - The Most Sustainable Christmas
Morning: Departure to the village of Cabeça, located in the heart of Serra da Estrela. Cabeça is known as the "Sustainable Christmas Village," as every year the local community organizes to create Christmas decorations made entirely from natural and recyclable materials. Walk through the decorated streets of Cabeça, where the ornaments are carefully crafted from natural elements like pine cones, moss, twigs, and sheep wool. The atmosphere is cozy and sustainable, in harmony with nature and the Christmas spirit. This initiative reflects the community's environmental commitment and offers a truly unique setting. Lunch at a local restaurant, offering another opportunity to taste the specialties of Serra da Estrela, accompanied by local cheeses, cured meats, and wines.
Afternoon: After lunch, say goodbye to the village and return to your starting point, taking with you the magic of the Christmas season in the mountains and the welcoming traditions of Portugal's Christmas Villages.
PRICE PER PERSON:
In a double room (2 people, double bed) | 245 € |
In a twin room (2 people, separate beds) | 245 € |
In a single room (1 person) | 285 € |
Deposit: 150 €
Bookings up to 30 days before departure
The prices quoted include:
Tour by coach.
7 meals with a full menu (starters or soup, main course, dessert, coffee, wine and water at mealtimes Some restaurants offer juices and soft drinks on the menu).
Accompanying guide representing the company.
Local guides for visits and activities.
All entrances and visits mentioned in the programme.
Accommodation in a 4* or 3* hotel with breakfast.
Civil liability and personal accident insurance.
SEATS ON THE BUS:
Seats on the bus are pre-allocated in order of where you get on the bus and date of deposit payment.
RYTHM: Medium
To take part in this route, you should:
Feel comfortable with several days of visits and an itinerary that alternates bus journeys and short walks in the places visited.
Be able to accompany a group at an average walking pace on sometimes uneven ground and with occasional stairs.
Being able to follow a medium-paced programme, which may involve getting up early on several days and only arriving at the hotel at the end of the day for dinner and a rest.
Feel comfortable accompanying a guide and respect all the instructions given.
Tolerate some temperature changes and unstable weather.
ACCOMMODATION:
Accommodation is planned at 4* and 3* hotels.
NOT TO BE MISSED
Stroll through the charming streets of Piódão and discover its typical schist architecture.
Visit the Piódão Matriz Church and marvel at its historical beauty.
Explore the wooden bridges and crystal-clear streams of Foz d'Égua, a place with a unique natural setting.
Admire the natural and sustainable Christmas decorations in the village of Cabeça.
Enjoy the traditional gastronomy, with typical dishes and authentic flavors from the region.
