Schist Villages of Lousã Mountain, half-day from Coimbra

Coimbra , Portugal

Schist Villages of Lousã Mountain, half-day from Coimbra

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(42 reviews)

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Travel to the Schist Villages of Serra da Lousã, a group of small villages of shepherds spread across the mountains.

The visit begins at the Village of Cerdeira, right in the heart of the mountains. It is a place of artistic inspiration based on the School of Arts and Crafts that promote art and creativity in line with the silence and the surrounding natural wealth.

We continue through the Village of Candal. Nestled in the mountains on a hill facing south, the visitor walks through the narrow, steep streets and from the top of the viewpoint contemplates the beautiful views over the valley.

The Village of Talasnal, the largest and best preserved. Discovering the village through the narrow, steep streets of the hillside is timeless.

We return to Coimbra after this journey "in time" to our rural ancestor.

Available options

Schist Villages of Lousã Mountain, half-day from Coimbra

What's included

Bottled water

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Driver/guide

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

The Schist Village of Cerdeira, right in the heart of the mountains, distinguished by its natural beauty. It is a place of artistic inspiration based on the School of Arts and Crafts that promote art and creativity in line with the silence and the surrounding natural wealth. Perfectly rebuilt with houses integrated into the landscape, thanks to the reuse of shale stones, clay and brown wood.

The Schist Village of Candal, the best located, developed and most visited, thanks to its easy access. Nestled in the mountains on a hill facing south, the visitor walks through the narrow, steep streets and from the top of the viewpoint contemplates the beautiful views over the valley.

The Schist Village of Talasnal, the largest and best preserved. The village with the most charisma, endowed with a natural setting that makes us immerse ourselves in a magical world. Discovering the village through the narrow, steep streets of the hillside is timeless. There are alleys to discover, stairs to go up or down and balconies to admire. Here Nature and Human hand are brought together.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

18 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

24 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

In front of Astória Hotel

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