Castles & Historic Towns

LINHARES DA BEIRA 

Charming medieval city partially enclosed in castle walls and retaining its historic feel. Visit the castle, walk the ramparts or the ancient streets, and explore other historic landmarks. The city also has a large weekly market where you can find many traditional products

Trancoso

Charming medieval city partially enclosed in castle walls and retaining its historic feel. Visit the castle, walk the ramparts or the ancient streets, and explore other historic landmarks. The city also has a large weekly market where you can find many traditional products

Marialva

One of the twelve villages in the Registry of Historic Villages of Portugal, Marialva features the ruins of a 12th century castle and an enclosed town overlooking stunning views of the rugged Rio Côa valley. Restored houses around the castle make up "casas do Côro" which includes lodging and a superb restaurant. 

Penedono

Penedono is a small but striking and well-preserved medieval castle set in the quaint village of Penedono. You can climb the ramparts for impressive views of the surrounding countryside. The castle also features a pillory and medieval catapult weapons.

Sortelha

Considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved historic villages (also on the Historic Village Registry), Sortelha features an impressive medieval castle (12th century) with a castle wall that encloses the entire village. Perched on a rocky prominence near the border with Spain, Sortelha is one of the oldest in a string of frontier settlements. The village is wonderfully photogenic with cobblestone streets, preserved granite houses, and imposing walls.

Sabugal 

Imposing medieval castle near Sortelha along the border with Spain. Known for its 5 cornered tower ("Tower of 5 Quinas). Walk the castle walls and climb the towers for amazing views of the village, the river Côa, and the surrounding mountains.