Cycle to Ancient Dolmens in Azenha. History, Theory & Folklore Guided Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Together we will be peeling back the layers of history on this Dolmens Mystery Tour.
Discover seven rarely visited neolithic sites, some dating back over 6000 years.
Feel close to the ancient ancestor spirits at the impressive Orca Dolmen complex located in the beautiful expansive territory of Central Portugal.
Once a densely populated region known as Lusitania, we will explore the history of the land and its people amongst then Viriato, a historical hero. He fought and won many battles against the Roman conquest.
Hear the official history of the dolmens along with the various theories surrounding the purpose of these neolithic sites.
Participate in simple rituals to connect with the land, our ancestors and yourself.
Enter into the tenth largest dolmen structure in Portugal.
Cycle through spectacular vistas of breath-taking nature.
Mountain bike and safety equipment provided
Available options
Cycling Tour
Lunch and Refreshments: Vegetarian lunch option available.
Complimentary non alcoholic refreshments at Cara Creek.
Complimentary drink at local café.
What's included
Use of bicycle
Coffee and/or Tea
Use of Cara Creek Eco Lodge facilities are available to tour guests. These include Natural Pool, Riverside Beach & Sauna
Detailed itinerary
1
Our welcoming guide will complete your registration in the main lodge and provide you with complimentary refreshments.
They will provide you with an orientation of the facilities including natural pool, river beach and swimming creek which tour guests are free to use.
2
Your guide will cycle with you to the first stop 'The River of Poets'
Regular water stops are included on your 3.7km route to the Archaeological complex.
3
A short stop at a local cafe with delicious artesanal meats, cheese and knitwear on offer. Your guide will buy you a refreshment included in your tour admission.
4
Your guide will take you to 7 sites for you to enjoy spectacular views, learn of Portuguese history and folklore surrounding the ancient dolmen sites, and come together to perform 7 simple chakra based rituals to connect with the impressive land, your own good self and acknowledge the ancestors that have come before us.
5
Enter into one of the larger remaining passage mound dolmens in the world dating back to 3500bc. Your guide will provide some light snacks for some mindful eating and then lead you through a short breathwork meditation.
6
Return to the Café for a quick stop before heading downhill with the wind in your hair returning to Cara Creek Eco Lodge where you are welcome to take a shower or enjoy a quick dip in the pool to cool down.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Come to Cara Creek Ecolodge. Park at the top car park and walk down past the pool and sauna to meet at the main lodge for registration. Try to arrive 15 mins early, Tea and Coffee are complimentary for tour guests.
About Coimbra
Coimbra, known as the City of Students, is a historic city in central Portugal with a rich academic tradition. It's home to one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra, and is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and cultural heritage.
Top Attractions
University of Coimbra
One of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and a rich history.
Historical
2-3 hours
€12 (general admission)
Coimbra Cathedral (Sé Velha)
This Romanesque cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in Portugal, featuring beautiful architecture and historical artifacts.
Religious
1-2 hours
€3 (general admission)
Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha
A ruined monastery that was once the home of Queen Saint Isabel, offering a glimpse into the city's medieval past.
Historical
1-2 hours
€4 (general admission)
Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra
A beautiful and serene garden with a diverse collection of plants, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Nature
1 hour
Free (with University of Coimbra ticket)
Portugal dos Pequenitos
A miniature park featuring scaled-down replicas of famous Portuguese monuments and buildings, ideal for families and children.
Cultural
1-2 hours
€7 (general admission)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cozido à Portuguesa
A hearty stew made with various meats, vegetables, and beans, cooked slowly in a clay pot.
Dinner
Contains meat and beans
Bacalhau à Brás
A popular dish made with shredded salted cod, onions, potatoes, and eggs.
Dinner
Contains fish and eggs
Leitão à Bairrada
Roast suckling pig, a specialty of the Bairrada region, served with a crispy skin and tender meat.
Dinner
Contains pork
Pastel de Tentúgal
A traditional pastry from the Tentúgal region, filled with sweet cream and topped with cinnamon.
Dessert
Contains dairy and sugar
Popular Activities
Hiking in Bussaco Forest
Kayaking on the Mondego River
Visiting thermal spas in Luso
Strolling along the Mondego River
Exploring the University of Coimbra
Visiting the Coimbra Cathedral (Sé Velha)
Swimming at nearby beaches
Visiting the Festa das Latas (Bottle Caps Festival)
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Coimbra for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with students and tourists.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Coimbra is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Francisco de Sa Carneiro Airport • 110 km from Coimbra
By train
Coimbra-B Station, Coimbra A Station
By bus
Coimbra Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and covers most parts of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Alta
Baixa
Sé Nova
Day trips
Conímbriga
15 km from Coimbra • Half day
Conímbriga is a well-preserved Roman settlement with impressive mosaics, ruins, and a museum.
Luso and Bussaco Forest
20 km from Coimbra • Full day
Luso is a charming spa town known for its thermal waters, while Bussaco Forest offers beautiful hiking trails and a historic palace.
Aveiro
60 km from Coimbra • Full day
Aveiro is a charming coastal city known as the 'Venice of Portugal' for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats.
Festivals
Queima das Fitas (Ribbon Burning Festival) • Late May
Festa das Latas (Bottle Caps Festival) • December
Pro tips
- Visit the University of Coimbra early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
- Try local specialties, such as Cozido à Portuguesa, Bacalhau à Brás, and Pastel de Tentúgal, at iconic eateries like O Sucesso, Zé Manel dos Frangos, and Café Santa Cruz
- Explore the city's neighborhoods, such as Alta, Baixa, and Sé Nova, to discover hidden gems, local shops, and cultural sites
- Take a day trip to Conímbriga, Luso and Bussaco Forest, or Aveiro to experience the region's history, nature, and unique culture
- Attend a Fado performance at the University of Coimbra for a traditional Portuguese music experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
