Walking

The Quinta da Moenda lies between the lofty Estrela and Açor mountains. This unspoiled environment with remains of Roman presence is great for all who enjoy walking.

Alvoco das Várzeas: authentic village with roman bridge

Already a short walk to 'our' village Alvoco das Várzeas is an adventure in itself. Follow the river Alvoco through the meadows and along the vegetable gardens into the village. Cross the roman bridge and turn left. After a few hundred metres go left and follow a track through the meadows. You smell nature at its best! You see hard working people who live from what the earth gives them. You will be greeted by friendly farmers who will ask where you are from. Along the 'levada's' (irrigation canals) you walk back into the village where you enjoy a cup of good Portuguese coffee. Then return to your apartment through the fields or alongside the road.
Recently, five new walking trails were inaugurated. We are happy to supply you with information about other walking possibilities.

 

Açor mountains

In Açor, a domain of schist, the cracks and bends make for a characteristical relief, vigorous, but with softened edges, carved by valleys and cliffs, water lines fitted in and where one can sometimes find curious geological formations, such as the Fraga da Pena waterfalls. The website of Aldeias do Xisto (Villages of schist) offers several beautiful trails, unfortunately not (yet) in English.

Serra da Estrela

The Serra da Estrela boasts a network of marked routes, which cover the whole of the Natural Park. Some of these trails take some hours; others take between three to four days to complete; they are considered overall to be moderately difficult to difficult walking, as there are some steep climbs involved and long distances. We have maps available.

 

We have some guides, like Walking in Portugal, by the Pili Pala Press which offers more detailed information.