Eastern Central Portugal

 

 About  Eastern Central Portugal

 

 The region of Eastern Central Portugal encompasses; the Beira Interior Norte, Beira Interior Sul and Cova de Beira.

The main focus of Eastern Central Portugal is the outdoor life - pure air, crystal streams and lovely views.  Nature lovers will enjoy the peace of the forest and valleys and the beautiful rural scenery remains delightfully unspoiled by tourism and development. This is a region of charming simplicity - reflected in the uncomplicated design of the traditional stone houses - and hospitable village communities.

Perched on a hillside is Monsanto which is considered to be the  "most Portuguese" of villages where small houses appear to be squeezed in amongst the large granite rocks. In common with all regions on the Spanish border, this area is scattered with castles and forts that historically played an important role in Portugal's defence.

To the west of the region is the stunning Serra da Estrela mountain range - the source of the mighty Mondego river. Also within the region is the Serra da Malcata nature reserve which is one of the few remaining habitats of the rare Iberian Lynx.  

To the south of the region, the mountainous landscape softens towards the Tejo river and is characterised by open views dotted with large boulders. 

 

 The Climate in Eastern Central Portugal

 

Generally the climate in Eastern Central Portugal is mild throughout the year. Summers are sunny and comfortably hot. It can be cloudy in winter but when the sun shines it is pleasantly warm. There is some snow fall in winter but this is generally limited to the mountain peaks.

 

                             Month                        
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average daytime temp °C
6
6
8
9
13
18
22
22
19
13
8
6

 

 Towns & Villages in  Eastern Central Portugal

 

 CASTELO BRANCO

 

Castelo Branco is a charming and prosperous city of large squares and broad avenues. It sits atop a low hill about 18 kms from the Spanish border. Much of the city was built by the Knights Templar in the 13th century; however the main attraction is the Jardim Episcopal (Episcopal Garden) designed in the 18th century the formal gardens are filled with baroque statues standing amongst box hedges and orange trees. 

Facilities include:

  • covered market
  • restaurants
  • bus services
  • railway station 

 Approximate Driving Times to Airports:

  • Lisbon - 2 hours
  • Porto - 3 hours, 15 minutes
  • Faro - 4 hours, 10 minutes

 

 CELORICO DA BEIRA

 

 Celorico da Beira is an ancient village, set on the hillside below an impressive castle where there are some stunning views. The village is known as the capital of the local soft cheese - Queijo da Serra – made from ewes milk. 

 Facilities include:

  • restaurants
  • market - held every Tuesday
  • cheese market - held every other Friday
  • railway station (6 kms north of the town)
  • bus services

 Approximate Driving Times to Airports:

  • Porto - 2 hours, 15 minutes
  • Lisbon - 3 hours, 10 minutes
  • Faro - 5 hours, 15 minutes  

 

 COVILHà

 

 Covilhã is a pleasant town with an attractive main square; steep, narrow streets; and stunning views. Formerly a popular location for shepherds, the town became a significant centre for Portugal’s wool and cloth industry. The prosperity of the town resulted in it being elevated to city status; and its clear air and pure waters saw it develop into a health resort. 

Covilhã features some impressive buildings and close by is the Palacete Jardim – a fine example of early Art Nouveau architecture with an excellent collection of azulejo tiles. 

 Facilities include:

  • restaurants 
  • café/bars 
  • supermarket 
  • railway station (4 kms outside the town) 
  • bus services

 Approximate Driving Times to Airports:

  • Lisbon - 2 hours, 40 minutes
  • Porto - 3 hours
  • Faro - 4 hours, 45 minutes 

 

 GUARDA

 

 At 3,465 ft (1,056 m), Guarda is the highest city in Portugal.  It is, therefore, no surprise that throughout Portugal’s history it has played an important role in the country’s defence. At one time it was believed to have been a military base for Julius Caesar, then the Visigoths, followed by the Moors. 

Its military history has influenced the architecture which has a mediaeval simplicity.   Guarda is dominated by a gothic cathedral that was built between the 14th and 16th centuries and set on the central square. 

This is a fascinating town and a great base for exploring the beautiful surrounding area.

 Facilities include:

  • Jazz Festival held every March
  • Restaurants
  • Jazz Club
  • Bus service
  • Railway station

 Approximate Driving Times to Airports:

  • Porto - 2 hours, 35 minutes
  • Lisbon - 3 hours
  • Faro - 5 hours  

 

 PINHEL

 

  Pinhel was one of the most advanced strongholds in this region, forming part of a defensive system that included the castles of Trancoso, Marialva and Castelo Mendo. The outer walls, towers and gates were built in 1385 by King Dinis and they enclose the narrow lanes of the old town centre.

 The town has a number of superb manor houses set around splendid gardens.

 There is a co-operative winery that produces an excellent red and a bakery that is famous for its cavaca sweetmeats. 

 

Approximate Driving Time to Airports:

  • Porto - 3 hours
  • Lisbon - 3 hours, 15 minutes
  • Faro - 5 hours, 25 minutes

 

 TRANCOSO 

 

 Trancoso is a peaceful hill top town sitting at 880 m (2,886 ft).   Within the town walls lies the old town centre with  cobbled streets; decorated covered walkways; wrought-iron balconies; and stone porches. 

 Facilities include:

  • restaurants
  • café/bars

 Approximate Driving Times to Airports:

  • Porto - 2 hours, 35 minutes
  • Lisbon - 3 hours, 25 minutes
  • Faro - 5 hours, 30 minutes

 

 

 

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