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Caretos of Lazarim
Itinerary: Tarouca | Ucanha | Salzedas | Lazarim | Balsemão | Lamego
The Caretos de Lazarim tour takes us on a three-day journey through the Varosa Valley, where Cistercian monks shaped the landscape and culture with their monasteries and agricultural techniques. This itinerary blends the sacred and the profane: we visit the ancient monasteries of Tarouca and Salzedas and take part in the Entrudo de Lazarim, where the Caretos and wooden masks evoke ancestral rituals. This fusion of spirituality and popular celebration connects us to the deepest roots of Portuguese culture
PROGRAM:
Day 1: Tarouca | Ucanha
Morning: Departure from the points of origin. Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: The tour begins in Tarouca, a historic city in the heart of the Varosa Valley. Visit to the Monastery of São João de Tarouca, the first Cistercian monastery in Portugal, founded in the 12th century. This imposing monastic complex reflects the influence of the Cistercian monks in the region, featuring remarkable Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements. Next, visit the Church of São Pedro de Tarouca, a 13th-century temple showcasing the transition from Romanesque to Gothic styles, illustrating the architectural evolution of the period.
The journey continues in Ucanha, a village with a rich historical legacy. During the Roman occupation, the fertile lands of the Varosa Valley were extensively cultivated, and remnants of the Roman road connecting the region to Lamego can still be seen today. In the Middle Ages, Cistercian monks built a fortified bridge and tower over the Varosa River, where tolls were collected for the couto of Santa Maria de Salzedas. This fortified bridge is one of Ucanha’s most emblematic landmarks, being the only medieval bridge of its kind in Portugal. Additionally, the village preserves the Old Abbey, the Parish Church, and a 17th-century pillory, all reflecting its deep-rooted Cistercian heritage.
Evening: The day ends with a traditional dinner, followed by accommodation at Hotel Delfim Douro 4* or similar.
Day 2: Salzedas | Lazarim
Morning: The second day begins in Salzedas, with a visit to the Monastery of Santa Maria de Salzedas, built in the 12th century with the support of King Afonso Henriques. The monastery played a central role in the development of the village. The visit includes the monastic church, showcasing Gothic and Baroque architectural elements, as well as the cloister. Free time to explore the old Jewish quarter, where narrow streets and vernacular buildings reflect the historical diversity of the region. The morning concludes with lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Departure to Lazarim to take part in the Entrudo de Lazarim, one of the oldest and most unique Carnival celebrations in Portugal. This event is famous for its Caretos, masked figures who parade through the streets wearing handmade wooden masks and traditional costumes. The Caretos bring an aura of mysticism and folklore to the festivities, engaging visitors and locals alike with the sound of bells and vibrant traditional entertainment. The afternoon includes a self-guided visit to the Iberian Mask Interpretive Center, where visitors can learn about the craftsmanship behind the masks and the history of Entrudo celebrations in the region.
Evening: Dinner and accommodation at Hotel Delfim Douro 4* or similar.
Day 3: Balsemão | Lamego
Morning: The final day begins with a visit to the Chapel of São Pedro de Balsemão, one of the oldest chapels in Portugal, with origins dating back to the Visigothic period. This historical monument reveals layers of cultural and architectural influences, from Visigothic elements to Romanesque and Baroque details, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of sacred art in Portugal.
Next, the itinerary takes us to the medieval city of Lamego, where we explore its rich historical heritage. The visit includes Lamego Castle and its cistern, as well as the Archaeological Center of Porta dos Figos. A walking tour through Lamego’s historic districts unveils its charming streets and hidden gems, culminating at the Church of Santa Maria de Almacave, a landmark of Lamego’s history and identity. This church played a significant role in establishing Marian devotion in the region and is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture.
The tour continues with a visit to the Lamego Cathedral, an impressive building that integrates various architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, resulting from centuries of renovations. Established in 1175, the cathedral was one of the first places in Portugal to institute Marian worship, remaining a symbol of religious devotion in Lamego. The tour concludes with lunch at a local restaurant, offering a delightful farewell experience.
Afternoon: Return to the points of origin.
DATES: 3 - 5 Mars 25 | 2 nights
DEPARTURES:
Oeiras | AERLIS | 06h10 |
Sete Rios | Bus Station | 06h30 |
Coimbra | Fórum Coimbra | 10h |
Extra stops along the A1 route to Coimbra are possible, subject to availability.
PRICE PER PERSON:
In a double room (2 people, double bed) | 425 € |
In a twin room (2 people, separate beds) | 425 € |
In a single room (1 person) | 515 € |
Deposit: 100 €
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:
Planned accommodation at Delfim Douro Hotel 4* or a similar hotel with breakfast included.
If, for reasons beyond our control, accommodation at the indicated hotels is not possible, an alternative hotel of a similar category will be provided. However, the services offered may vary from one hotel to another.
NOT TO BE MISSED
A visit to the Monastery of São João de Tarouca, the first Cistercian monastery in Portugal, founded in the 12th century.
The fortified bridge of Ucanha, one of the few medieval bridges of its kind in Portugal, linked to the history of toll collection during the Middle Ages.
The Entrudo of Lazarim, famous for its Caretos, masked characters that embody the spirit of one of the most unique Carnival celebrations in the country.
The Chapel of São Pedro de Balsemão, a monument dating back to the Visigothic period, with a fascinating architectural history.
The Sé Cathedral of Lamego, an important Marian worship center with a rich blend of architectural styles, and the Lamego Castle, featuring its cistern and medieval history.
