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Lousã Mountain Range
Itinerary: Gondramaz | Talasnal | Lousã | Cerdeira | Candal | Casal e Fragas de São Simão
This 3-day itinerary through the Lousã Mountain Range offers a journey back in time to the enchanting Schist Villages, where tradition and nature blend in perfect harmony. Throughout the trip, visitors will have the opportunity to discover picturesque villages such as Gondramaz, Talasnal, and Casal de São Simão, enjoy panoramic views from viewpoints like the Fragas de São Simão, and explore historical monuments like the Castle of Lousã. Combining nature, history, and culture, this route unveils the best of this unique region of Portugal, providing an immersive and unforgettable experience.
PROGRAMME
Day 1: Gondramaz | Talasnal | Lousã
Morning: Depart from the origin locations towards Serra da Lousã. Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: The itinerary starts in the charming village of Gondramaz, one of the most picturesque Aldeias do Xisto in Serra da Lousã. Gondramaz stands out for its natural beauty and the preservation of its traditional schist constructions. Strolling through the narrow streets, visitors can admire typical houses, small flowered corners, and the surrounding lush greenery. Lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to the village of Talasnal, another Aldeia do Xisto with a magical atmosphere. Situated on an elevated point of the mountain range, Talasnal offers spectacular views over the Lousã valley. The walk through its narrow stone streets reveals a village where traditions are alive, with carefully restored schist houses and a natural setting that invites contemplation. This is an ideal place to take photos and enjoy the calm and rustic charm of this mountain village.
Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel Octant Lousã 4* or similar.
Day 2: Lousã | Cerdeira | Candal
Morning: The second day begins with a visit to the Castle of Lousã, a medieval fortress strategically situated atop a hill, surrounded by the dense vegetation of the mountain range. The castle, locally known as Castelo de Arouce, has a rich history connected to the defense of the region during the Middle Ages. Next, visit the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Piedade, composed of 3 chapels dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Piedade, São João, and Nossa Senhora da Agonia. The journey continues to the village of Cerdeira, a true artistic haven in Serra da Lousã. This Aldeia do Xisto has transformed into a center for artistic creation, where studios, artist residencies, and workshops bring people together around art and nature. The creative atmosphere and the care taken to preserve the schist houses make Cerdeira a unique place where tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously. Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Next, visit Candal, one of the most visited villages in Serra da Lousã, located on a steep slope offering magnificent views over the mountains. Walking through Candal is like entering a living painting, where the schist houses and surrounding vegetation merge into an authentic landscape. The small local craft shops are an additional attraction, offering traditional products and unique pieces, perfect for taking home a souvenir from the mountains.
Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel Octant Lousã 4* or similar.
Day 3: Casal de São Simão | Fragas de São Simão
Morning: The final day starts with a visit to the village of Casal de São Simão, another Aldeia do Xisto that seems to have stopped in time. The small village is a charming place, where schist and wood combine in simple but welcoming architecture. The tranquility is absolute, and the rural surroundings make Casal de São Simão ideal for a relaxing walk. Here, one can appreciate the harmony between rural life and the natural landscape of the mountain, in an environment that is a true invitation to rest and contemplation. Next, a walk through the Fragas de São Simão, an impressive rock formation that hides a stunning valley. Among the imposing schist cliffs, the river flows, creating a unique and serene landscape, perfect for those who appreciate nature and silence. This is one of the most photogenic locations in the region and offers an intimate connection with the wild beauty of Serra da Lousã. Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Return to the origin locations.
PRICE PER PERSON:
In a double room (2 people, double bed) | 395 € |
In a twin room (2 people, separate beds) | 395 € |
In a single room (1 person) | 485 € |
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 4* and 3* hotels.
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NOT TO BE MISSED
Gondramaz and Talasnal, two of the most picturesque Schist Villages in the Serra da Lousã, where the schist houses and lush vegetation create a unique and enchanting atmosphere.
A visit to the Castle of Lousã, a medieval fortification offering a privileged view of the mountain range and an immersion in the region's medieval history.
The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Piedade, with its three chapels and a serene, contemplative atmosphere.
Cerdeira, an artistic village that blends tradition and innovation, where art and nature intertwine.
Casal de São Simão and the Fragas de São Simão, a peaceful and beautiful natural setting, perfect for those seeking a direct connection with nature and the tranquility of the mountains.