{"id":37675,"date":"2024-03-29T10:55:19","date_gmt":"2024-03-29T09:55:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/niet-gecategoriseerd\/historic-villages-of-portugal\/"},"modified":"2026-07-06T09:28:17","modified_gmt":"2026-07-06T07:28:17","slug":"historic-villages-of-portugal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/portugal\/central-portugal\/historic-villages-of-portugal\/","title":{"rendered":"Historic Villages of Portugal"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Historic Villages of Portugal, 12-Village Tour of Central Portugal<\/h1>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Travel through a unique region in central Portugal. On the eastern side of the country, between Lisbon and Porto, you\u2019ll find Portugal\u2019s Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas. Twelve villages have joined together to form \u201cthe 12 historic villages\u201d (Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas). They are inextricably linked in terms of historical significance, yet each village also has its own distinct character and unique location.     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read about Portugal\u2019s 12 historic villages, a fantastic <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/green-travel-tips\/what-is-slow-travel\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"549\">destination for slow travel <\/a>. You can explore this unique stretch of history and nature by car, on foot, or by bike.   <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Aldeias Historicas - Portugal - Nature Travel Lab #centerofportugal #aldeiashistoricas\" width=\"1080\" height=\"608\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/eA0zMHH29KA?feature=oembed\"  allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You are here in the border region with Spain, about 130 kilometers from Salamanca and 350 kilometers from Madrid (measured from Castelo Mendo). The villages are part of Portugal\u2019s unique cultural heritage and are also located in a beautiful nature reserve surrounded by several nature parks.   <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Mendo-Portugal-oude-vrouw-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Castelo Mendo - Portugal - elderly woman\" class=\"wp-image-7782\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Mendo-Portugal-oude-vrouw-1-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Mendo-Portugal-oude-vrouw-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Historic Villages: 12 Historic Villages, a Tour of Central Portugal<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read more here about the unique character of each of the villages. Further down, you\u2019ll see on the map how you can drive the routes in two loops. The restaurants listed are top-rated restaurants in the area serving traditional local Portuguese cuisine.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7751\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Almeida-portugal-straatje-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Almeida - Portugal - small street\" class=\"wp-image-7751\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7752\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Almeida-Portugal-historische-steen-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Almeida - Portugal: Historic Stone\" class=\"wp-image-7752\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"7780\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Almeida-Portugal-paarden-over-stadsmuur-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Almeida - Portugal - horses on the city wall\" class=\"wp-image-7780\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Almeida-Portugal-paarden-over-stadsmuur-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Almeida-Portugal-paarden-over-stadsmuur-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Almeida, on the border with Spain<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Situated on a plateau and very close to Spain, Almeida was essential to the defense of Portugal\u2019s borders for centuries. The town was built in the 17th century following French rule. You can still see the French fleur-de-lis on some of the castle walls. The fortress still stands today; shaped like a star, it has been the site of many battles over the centuries. A procession is still held there at Easter.      <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to the old fortress, the city now also offers fantastic restaurants and good places to stay.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Almeida&#8217;s Restaurant Recommendation<\/strong>: O Ca\u00e7ador, located just outside the historic center in Largo do Olmo, featuring family recipes from the region.  <\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7754\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Mendo-Portugal-Mendo-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Castelo Mendo - Portugal - Mendo\" class=\"wp-image-7754\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"7782\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Mendo-Portugal-oude-vrouw-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Castelo Mendo - Portugal - elderly woman\" class=\"wp-image-7782\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Mendo-Portugal-oude-vrouw-1-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Mendo-Portugal-oude-vrouw-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Castelo Mendo: A Trip Back in Time<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just south of Almeida, 24 kilometers away and less than a half-hour drive, you\u2019ll find Castelo Mendo. At the entrance to the village, stone animals have been welcoming visitors for centuries. Life moves at a leisurely pace in Castelo Mendo, where the residents still make their living primarily from raising goats. The local favorite dish is, unsurprisingly, braised goat with potatoes&#8230;     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Restaurant Recommendation in Castelo Mendo: Restaurante <\/strong>Wellington<\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Romeo and Juliet in Castelo Mendo<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No one knows the exact story behind the stone figures, but on a stone gargoyle on the wall of the Antiga Domus Municipalis (the old courthouse), you can see Mendo, a male figure embedded in the wall. On the other side, on a stone in a house, stands the figure of a woman, Menda. The locals believe this is a love story like Romeo and Juliet, in which the two are destined to gaze at each other from a distance forever on the cliffs of Castelo Mendo.    <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"602\" height=\"900\" data-id=\"8215\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Castelo-Rodrigo-Ruines-kasteel.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8215\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Castelo-Rodrigo-Ruines-kasteel.jpg 602w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Castelo-Rodrigo-Ruines-kasteel-480x718.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 602px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"687\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7463\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Rodrigo-16-687x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Castelo Rodrigo - Flowers\" class=\"wp-image-7463\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7757\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Rodrigo-kerktoren-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Castelo Rodrigo - church tower\" class=\"wp-image-7757\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Castelo Rodrigo, the most beautiful village in the world  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.unwto.org\/tourism-villages\/en\/villages\/castelo-rodrigo\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.unwto.org\/tourism-villages\/en\/villages\/castelo-rodrigo\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">In 2021, the UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) named Castelo Rodrigo the best village for tourism<\/a>. The village is located north of Almeida and is very active in the area of environmental sustainability.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This medieval village, with about a hundred residents, is situated on a hill with a magnificent view of the C\u00f4a Valley. The entire village is a veritable open-air museum, featuring the ruins of the castle and the palace of Crist\u00f3v\u00e3o de Moura.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a great place to stay overnight, enjoy delicious food, and visit the surrounding villages from Castelo Rodrigo.  <\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Accommodation Tip in Castelo Rodrigo: <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/accommodaties-portugal\/casa-da-cisterna\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"7475\">Casa da Cisterna<\/a><\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Restaurant recommendations in Castelo Rodrigo: Taverna <\/strong>da Matilde and Cocina da Rita. At Cocina da Rita, you\u2019ll eat in Rita\u2019s living room. She\u2019s turned her home into a restaurant and prepares the most delicious local dishes.    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"726\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7764\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Marialva-by-night-Portugal-726x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Marialva by Night - Portugal\" class=\"wp-image-7764\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"577\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22053\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_3278-577x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Castelo Rodrigo - Casa da Rita - Rita Explains\" class=\"wp-image-22053\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_3278-577x1024.jpg 577w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_3278-480x853.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 577px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7765\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Marialva-olijfboom-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Marialva olive tree\" class=\"wp-image-7765\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Marialva, a long and rich history  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Marialva, a granite village, was already inhabited in the 6th century B.C. and served an important military defensive role throughout the centuries. This also led to the village\u2019s downfall. Today, it is still home to a massive fortress with stunning views, as well as the legend of Maria Alva with her goat\u2019s hooves; Maria Alva, \u201cp\u00e9s de cabra,\u201d is still celebrated annually in July with a three-day festival.    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Marialva&#8217;s Restaurant Recommendation:<\/strong> P\u00e9 da Cabra at Mercearia Moderna<\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"577\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"22031\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_3136-577x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Historic Villages - Ancient Inscriptions on the Castle Wall\" class=\"wp-image-22031\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_3136-577x1024.jpg 577w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_3136-480x853.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 577px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7762\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Linhares-da-Beira-boven-de-wolken-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Linhares da Beira - Above the Clouds\" class=\"wp-image-7762\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7774\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Trancoso-Portugal-beeld-Bandarra-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Trancoso - Portugal - photo by Bandarra\" class=\"wp-image-7774\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Trancoso, famous for its sweet sardines<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the border between the Serra da Estrela and the Douro Valley, you\u2019ll find Trancoso\u2014naturally, also perched on a hill. Many historic battles took place here. The castle, narrow streets, and architecture still bear witness to this long military history. It was here that King Dom Dinis married Isabel of Aragon in 1282.     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The village is best known for its sweet sardines and the statue of Gon\u00e7alo Anes Bandara, a local shoemaker and poet.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Restaurant Recommendation in Trancoso:<\/strong> Restaurante Dom Gabriel<\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Linhares da Beira: With Your Head in the Clouds  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because of the altitude, you\u2019re sometimes literally among the clouds here. The village gained worldwide fame as the \u201ccathedral of paragliding.\u201d In addition to paragliding, there\u2019s also a legend here about a woman with goat legs, mysterious inscriptions throughout the village, and decorative Manueline-style architecture.    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Restaurant Recommendation in Linhares da Beira: Cova <\/strong>da Loba  <\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"8234\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Belmonte-Portugal-vrouw-in-straat-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8234\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"602\" height=\"900\" data-id=\"8225\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Belmonte-Portugal-kasteel.jpg\" alt=\"Belmonte - Portugal - castle\" class=\"wp-image-8225\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Belmonte-Portugal-kasteel.jpg 602w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Belmonte-Portugal-kasteel-480x718.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 602px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7753\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Belmonte-Portugal-kasteel-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Belmonte - Portugal - castle\" class=\"wp-image-7753\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Belmonte and the Connection to Brazil<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Churches, synagogues, the ruins of an ancient Roman villa, and museums offer a glimpse into the town\u2019s rich history. From the top of the castle, you can see the entire village and the surrounding countryside. Pedro Alvares Cabral, from Belmonte, was the discoverer of Brazil in 1500. The castle belonged to his family. In August, a three-day medieval festival\u2014Belmonte Medieval\u2014attracts visitors from all over Portugal.      <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Belmonte Restaurant Recommendation:<\/strong> Casa do Castelo and Fio de Azeite  <\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"602\" height=\"900\" data-id=\"8231\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Sortelha-Portugal-Igreja-Matriz_.jpg\" alt=\"Sortelha - Portugal - Mother Church\" class=\"wp-image-8231\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Sortelha-Portugal-Igreja-Matriz_.jpg 602w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Sortelha-Portugal-Igreja-Matriz_-480x718.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 602px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"8233\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Sortelha-portugal-doorkijkje-kasteeljpg-1-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Sortelha - Portugal - View of the Castle\" class=\"wp-image-8233\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"602\" height=\"900\" data-id=\"8229\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Sortelha-Portugal-daken.jpg\" alt=\"Sortelha - Portugal - roofs\" class=\"wp-image-8229\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Sortelha-Portugal-daken.jpg 602w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Sortelha-Portugal-daken-480x718.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 602px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Sortelha, where time stands still  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In 2023, Sortelha was certified as<a href=\"https:\/\/www.unwto.org\/tourism-villages\/en\/villages\/sortelha\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.unwto.org\/tourism-villages\/en\/villages\/sortelha\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the \u201cbest tourist village\u201d<\/a> by the UNWTO. The village has no fewer than 3 residents, 2 restaurants, and a bar. The 13th-century castle, nestled amid lush greenery, dominates a setting that seems to have remained untouched over the centuries. The village boasts prehistoric origins and a very well-preserved structure. On a clear night, the sky here is filled with stars. Bracejo is a traditional reed-weaving craft still practiced in this village. You\u2019ll also find a medieval festival here in September\u2014highly recommended. You can stay overnight in Sortelha in the beautifully renovated apartments of Story Studio Sortelha.       <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The \u201crochas do Beijo Eterno\u201d are two \u201ckissing\u201d stones, which, according to legend, are a prince who has been turned into stone and his girlfriend.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Sortelha Restaurant Recommendation:<\/strong> Restaurante Casa da Esquila<\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"7787\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Piodao-uitmonding-rivier-in-dorp-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Piodao - river mouth in the village\" class=\"wp-image-7787\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Piodao-uitmonding-rivier-in-dorp-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Piodao-uitmonding-rivier-in-dorp-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7769\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Piodao-portugal-blauwe-kozijnen-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Piodao - Portugal - blue window frames\" class=\"wp-image-7769\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pi\u00f3d\u00e3o, spectacularly situated against a mountain  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you make your way through the rugged mountain landscape of the Serra do A\u00e7or, Pi\u00f3d\u00e3o lies on the other side of the mountain\u2014a complete surprise. It is one of Portugal\u2019s most spectacular villages in terms of its location, nestled against the mountain. It was once the ideal hideout for people on the run from the law&#8230;    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The blue doors and window frames provide a beautiful contrast to the village\u2019s natural setting. The village is surrounded by the most beautiful trails right in the heart of nature. It has a small beach at the river\u2019s mouth, which offers a delightful way to cool off in the summer.    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Restaurant Tip in Piod\u00e3o:<\/strong> Restaurante O Fontinha and Restaurante Solar dos Pachecos<\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7756\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Novo-oude-dame-op-straat-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Castelo Novo - an elderly woman on the street\" class=\"wp-image-7756\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"7783\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Novo-Portugal-riviermonding-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Castelo Novo - Portugal - estuary\" class=\"wp-image-7783\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Novo-Portugal-riviermonding-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Novo-Portugal-riviermonding-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Castelo Novo  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Castelo Novo was named the best tourist village by the <a href=\"https:\/\/tourism-villages.unwto.org\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.unwto.org\/tourism-villages\/en\/villages\/castelo-novo\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">UNWTO<\/a> in 2022. The Serra da Gardunha forms a natural amphitheater for this rich architectural heritage. The beautiful natural surroundings in and around the village are evident everywhere. At the entrance to the historic village, you can swim in the clear waters of the Ribeira de Alpreada. A Roman path runs through the village. Only one tower of the castle remains standing.       <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What sets this village apart are its brightly colored window frames in a variety of hues. On the menu here are meatballs made from venison&#8230;   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Castelo Novo is about a 50-minute drive from Idanha-a-Velha (via the N roads).  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Restaurant Recommendation in Castelo Novo: Restaurante <\/strong>O Lagarto<\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-10 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"7784\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Monsanto-Portugal-kasteel-van-boven-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Monsanto - Portugal - view of the castle from above\" class=\"wp-image-7784\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Monsanto-Portugal-kasteel-van-boven-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Monsanto-Portugal-kasteel-van-boven-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7767\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Monsanto-Portugal-marafona-aan-deur-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Monsanto - Portugal - marathon at the door\" class=\"wp-image-7767\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7768\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Monsanto-rotsen-op-berg-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Monsanto rocks on a mountain\" class=\"wp-image-7768\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Monsanto, the most Portuguese village in Portugal  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Monsanto is one of Portugal\u2019s most distinctive villages. A few years ago, it was named the most beautiful village in Portugal. Perched on an impossibly steep granite slope, the village was built here over the centuries under grueling conditions.    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Narrow streets winding around the rocks, houses built into the rocks, and steep slopes perfect for beautiful hikes.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Marafona&#8221; dolls hang on the doors of houses; these are dolls made from a wooden cross covered with fabric, with no eyes, mouth, nose, or ears. According to the residents, they serve as amulets against the evil eye. From the village, you can hike along the Barrocais Route for about 5 kilometers to the castle, which offers stunning views.    <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Monsanto Restaurant Recommendation: Restaurante <\/strong>Petiscos &amp; Granitos<\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-11 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7761\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Idanha-a-velha-man-op-straat-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Idanha-a-Velha man on the street\" class=\"wp-image-7761\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7760\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Idanha-a-velha-kerk-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Idanha-a-Velha Church\" class=\"wp-image-7760\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7759\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Idanha-a-velha-Portugal-romeinse-brug-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Idanha-a-Velha - Portugal - Roman bridge\" class=\"wp-image-7759\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Idanha-a-Velha: an important historical site  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A 15-minute drive from Monsanto. Surrounded by imposing walls, this charming little village is one of Portugal\u2019s largest archaeological sites. You can still find traces of the Romans, the Suebi, and the Knights Templar here. In Roman times, it was the capital of a region; during the Suebi-Visigothic period, it served as the seat of a diocese; and it played a major role during the era of the Knights Templar.     <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"has-background wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\"><strong>Restaurant recommendation in Idanha-a-Velha:<\/strong> Restaurante Old School in the nearby village of Medelim  <\/p>\n\n<div style=\"height:28px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-12 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"8240\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/GR22-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Historic Cities - Hiking - GR22\" class=\"wp-image-8240\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7750\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/12-historische-dorpen-wandelen-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Hiking Through 12 Historic Villages\" class=\"wp-image-7750\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Historic Villages of Portugal: Hiking or Biking  <\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The GR22 in Portugal and its connection to Spain<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a true Slow travel experience, take a walk through the historic villages. The Grande Rota 22 passes through 12 historic villages and offers a fantastic long-distance hike along the route. In total, this trail is about 600 kilometers long. The GR22 is the longest trail in Portugal. It can also be done by bike, for true enthusiasts. This trail was nominated for its high quality, the many nature parks it passes through\u2014the Douro International Nature Park, the Vale do C\u00f4a, the Tejo International Nature Park, and the Serra da Estrela Nature Park\u2014and, of course, the historic villages.       <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An agreement was recently reached with Spain, and the GR22 has been extended into <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/category\/spain\/\">Spanish territory<\/a>. This adds another 200 kilometers to the route, passing through the following villages in the C\u00e1ceres region: <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>San Mart\u00edn de Trevejo<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hoyos<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gata<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Robledillo de Gata<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ovejuela<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Torre de Don Miguel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Riomalo de Arriba<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aceitunilla<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Asegur<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>El Gasco<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Martilandr\u00e1n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trevejo<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Santiba\u00f1ez El Alto<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here you&#8217;ll find more information about the <a href=\"https:\/\/aldeiashistoricasdeportugal.com\/en\/oferta-turistica\/percursos\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/aldeiashistoricasdeportugal.com\/en\/oferta-turistica\/percursos\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GR22 trails<\/a>.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Shorter Hiking Trails Among Portugal&#8217;s Historic Villages  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to the GR22, there are about 15 shorter, beautiful hiking trails that take you through nature reserves and historic villages (the PR routes), ranging from 6 to 20 kilometers. Belmonte, for example, is a good starting point for your <a href=\"https:\/\/aldeiashistoricasdeportugal.com\/en\/percurso\/sortelha-belmonte\/?routetype=grande_rota_walking&amp;position=0\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/aldeiashistoricasdeportugal.com\/en\/percurso\/sortelha-belmonte\/?routetype=grande_rota_walking&amp;position=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">hike to Sortelha<\/a>. This village offers good accommodations, and there are several restaurants. Although most of the routes are well marked, it\u2019s still a good idea to use a GPX file while hiking. Click here for information about the <a href=\"https:\/\/aldeiashistoricasdeportugal.com\/en\/oferta-turistica\/percursos\/circuitos-seguros\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/aldeiashistoricasdeportugal.com\/en\/oferta-turistica\/percursos\/circuitos-seguros\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">hiking routes in and between the historic villages<\/a>.      <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are also several shorter routes available for cyclists in addition to the GR22.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-13 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"8236\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Walkyng-PR1-Belmonte-1-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Historic Cities of Portugal - PR1 Hiking Trail in Belmonte\" class=\"wp-image-8236\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"685\" data-id=\"7795\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Historische-dorpen-portugal-fietsen-1024x685.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7795\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Historische-dorpen-portugal-fietsen-980x656.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Historische-dorpen-portugal-fietsen-480x321.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Birdwatching at the Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas in Faia Brava<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Faia Brava protected private area is located within the territory of the 12 villages. Faia Brava is also part of the GR22 and offers a much-needed break along the route. Faia Brava is situated between the villages of Marialva and Castelo Rodrigo. The distance between the two villages along the GR22 is 36 kilometers. It takes about 8 hours on foot and 3 hours by bike.      <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thanks to the high granite cliffs of the C\u00f4a River Gorge, this area provides a safe haven for large vultures (the griffon vulture, Egyptian vulture, Bonelli\u2019s eagle, etc.) to nest. These birds make Faia Brava an area of great biological importance.   <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas de Portugal-Certified Sustainable Destination  <\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Portugal\u2019s Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas are the first destination in the world to receive certification as a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.biospheresustainable.com\/en\/destinations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Biosphere Destination<\/a>. This means that the villages are actively working in a variety of areas to ensure the destination\u2019s sustainability. The villages are actively engaged in nature conservation, the use of endogenous resources, local production, and sustainable tourism. Traditions are upheld to preserve their unique character. The 12 villages are striving to become Portugal\u2019s first carbon-neutral destination.      <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Free electric car during your stay in Castelo Novo<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.plataformaaldeiashistoricas.com\/mobility\/renault-mobilidade\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.plataformaaldeiashistoricas.com\/mobility\/renault-mobilidade\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Together with Renault Portugal<\/a>, the historic villages have come up with the following sustainable initiative. If you arrive by public transportation (from Lisbon or Porto), you\u2019ll be taken from Fund\u00e3o Station to Castelo Novo for free (provided you\u2019re staying overnight there), and you\u2019ll have a Renault electric car at your disposal to get around the village and the surrounding area. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Renault_Portugal_historische-steden_duurzaamheidsproject-1024x684.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7927\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Renault_Portugal_historische-steden_duurzaamheidsproject-980x654.jpeg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Renault_Portugal_historische-steden_duurzaamheidsproject-480x320.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In recent years, several villages have been named the most beautiful villages in Portugal and even the world\u2019s most beautiful tourist villages by the UNWTO. The twelve villages are spread across three regions: Coimbra, Castelo Branco, and Guarda. They are surrounded by several nature parks:    <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Serra da Estrela National Park  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Douro International National Park  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tejo International National Park  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#eeeee8\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tips for Your Road Trip Through Portugal&#8217;s 12 Historic Villages<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All 12 villages are well worth the trip. For example, you can choose to stay overnight in 3 or 4 of them if you want to see all 12. Another good option for hikers is to visit a few of the villages on foot. Read more about this later in the hiking tips section. Each village has a small tourist office where you can get the information you need.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From Lisbon, you can easily visit these five historic villages:  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Castelo Novo  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Idanha-a-Velha  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monsanto  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Belmonte  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sortelha  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The total distance between these five villages is about 150 kilometers.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-14 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"7785\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Picknick-12-historische-dorpen-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Picnic in 12 Historic Villages\" class=\"wp-image-7785\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Picknick-12-historische-dorpen-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Picknick-12-historische-dorpen-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"7783\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Novo-Portugal-riviermonding-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Castelo Novo - Portugal - estuary\" class=\"wp-image-7783\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Novo-Portugal-riviermonding-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Castelo-Novo-Portugal-riviermonding-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The easiest way to get there is from Porto via the A1 and A25 to Celorico da Beira:  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Linhares da Beira  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trancoso  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Marialva  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Castelo Mendo  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Almeida  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Castelo Rodrigo  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Piod\u00e3o  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The distance between the first six villages is about 200 kilometers. The route to Piod\u00e3o is a bit longer but definitely worth the trip, especially because of its location near the Parco da Serra da Estrela Nature Park. You can choose to stay overnight in two or three villages and visit the other villages and the surrounding nature from there.    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do you get to the Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas de Portugal?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fly to Lisbon. From Lisbon, it is about 250 kilometers to Castelo Novo. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flying to Porto. The distance from Porto to Linhares da Beira is about 188 kilometers. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fly to Madrid. From Madrid, drive via Salamanca to Almeida. The distance is 347 kilometers.  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, you can start in the northernmost part and fly to Lisbon with Transavia or KLM. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sunnycars.nl\/huureenauto\/?tt=21138_997284_464202_&amp;r=\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.sunnycars.nl\/huureenauto\/?tt=21138_997284_464202_&amp;r=\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Car rental in Portugal<\/a>: it\u2019s best to rent your all-inclusive car through Sunnycars. Then continue on to the southern historic villages and fly back from Porto. Please note that if you plan to cross the border with your rental car, you must indicate this when making your reservation.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Organized trip to the Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas of Portugal<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;d like to let someone else handle the planning of your trip to the Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas, check out <a href=\"https:\/\/priolotravel.nl\/portugal-vakantie\/centro-de-portugal\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/priolotravel.nl\/portugal-vakantie\/centro-de-portugal\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Priolo Travel<\/a>. They organize custom trips to the Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Stay in the Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas of Portugal<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Assuming a round trip from south to north (though you can, of course, do it the other way around), we recommend the following unique places to stay. Just as the twelve villages place a high priority on sustainability, these unique accommodations are all based on sustainability, appreciation for heritage, and, above all, hospitality. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1. Belmonte, <strong>TheVagar<\/strong>. A unique place to completely relax and enjoy yourself surrounded by nature. <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/accommodaties-portugal\/thevagar-countryhouse\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/accommodaties-portugal\/thevagar-countryhouse\/\">Read more about TheVagar<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-4 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-15 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"8375\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-country-house21-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"thevagar-country-house-bedroom-bath-esperanca-suite\" class=\"wp-image-8375\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-country-house21-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-country-house21-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"8382\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-countryhouse16-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"thevagar-countryhouse - nature - feet in the earth\" class=\"wp-image-8382\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-countryhouse16-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-countryhouse16-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"8374\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-country-house18-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"thevagar-country-house-balcony-bedroom\" class=\"wp-image-8374\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-country-house18-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-country-house18-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"8381\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-countryhouse-belmonte4-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"thevagar-country-house-belmonte-pool\" class=\"wp-image-8381\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-countryhouse-belmonte4-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-countryhouse-belmonte4-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"8368\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-country-house-belmonte-portugal2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"thevagar-country-house-belmonte-portugal-evening-sun-pool\" class=\"wp-image-8368\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-country-house-belmonte-portugal2-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/thevagar-country-house-belmonte-portugal2-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">2. Castelo Rodrigo \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/accommodaties-portugal\/casa-da-cisterna\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/accommodaties-portugal\/casa-da-cisterna\/\"><strong>Casa da Cisterna<\/strong><\/a>. The northernmost stopover. A unique spot in a historic town with a very welcoming owner who\u2019s happy to tell you more about and show you the beautiful natural surroundings.  <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-5 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-16 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"7473\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Varanda-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Casa da Cisterna - porch\" class=\"wp-image-7473\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Varanda-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Varanda-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"686\" data-id=\"7447\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/DSC_0604-1024x686.jpg\" alt=\"Casa da Cisterna - outdoor table\" class=\"wp-image-7447\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/DSC_0604-980x656.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/DSC_0604-480x321.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"809\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7450\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2010-05-22-15.48.50-1-809x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Casa da Cisterna - Old Village\" class=\"wp-image-7450\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"682\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"7457\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/2014-07-12-09.32.29-682x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Casa da Cisterna - bed with loft\" class=\"wp-image-7457\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"660\" data-id=\"7449\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/DSG_Cisterna-New_08-1024x660.jpg\" alt=\"Casa da Cisterna - infinity pool\" class=\"wp-image-7449\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/DSG_Cisterna-New_08-980x631.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/DSG_Cisterna-New_08-480x309.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">3. Castelo Novo, <strong>Pedra Nova<\/strong>. A unique 4-bedroom home with a pool. <a href=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/accommodaties-portugal\/pedra-nova-portugal\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/accommodaties-portugal\/pedra-nova-portugal\/\">Read more here<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-4 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-17 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"8451\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Piscina_2-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Pedra Nova Pool Loungers\" class=\"wp-image-8451\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Piscina_2-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Piscina_2-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" data-id=\"8457\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Suite_Dupla_Twin-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Pedra Nova - Castelo Novo - Portugal - Double\/Twin Suite\" class=\"wp-image-8457\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Suite_Dupla_Twin-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Suite_Dupla_Twin-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"8443\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Esplanada_Superior_1-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Pedra Nova - Castelo Novo - Portugal - terrace\" class=\"wp-image-8443\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Esplanada_Superior_1-980x735.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Esplanada_Superior_1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" data-id=\"8462\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/WC_Suite_Dupla-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Pedra Nova - Castelo Novo - Portugal - Double Suite with Bathroom\" class=\"wp-image-8462\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/WC_Suite_Dupla-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/WC_Suite_Dupla-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas Portugal Tour on a Map  <\/h2>\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/0\/embed?mid=1vv29RQQZSUWhDv3KlkTScut1sgK3gZI&#038;ehbc=2E312F&#038;noprof=1\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-18 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"256\" data-id=\"7797\" src=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Aldeias-historicas-de-Portugal-logo-1024x256.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7797\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Aldeias-historicas-de-Portugal-logo-980x245.jpg 980w, https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Aldeias-historicas-de-Portugal-logo-480x120.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>This article was produced in collaboration with Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas de Portugal  <\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Historic Villages of Portugal, 12-Village Tour of Central Portugal Travel through a unique region in central Portugal. On the eastern side of the country, between Lisbon and Porto, you\u2019ll find Portugal\u2019s Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas. Twelve villages have joined together to form \u201cthe 12 historic villages\u201d (Aldeias Hist\u00f3ricas). They are inextricably linked in terms of historical significance, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":35489,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[224,216,212,213,215,189,191],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-37675","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-central-portugal","category-sustainable-city-break","category-road-trips","category-green-travel-tips","category-cycling-tours","category-portugal","category-hiking-tours"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37675","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37675"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37675\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/35489"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37675"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=37675"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naturetravellab.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=37675"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}