In winter there are fewer people, more mist on the hills and the food tastes better. These are Carlos's suggestions for the cold months, starting from Pousaflores.
Last updated · Refúgios do Centro
In winter, Terras de Sicó is for unhurried walks and evenings by the fire: waymarked trails in the Serra de Alvaiázere, the legends of Marzugueira and Covões (with a festival on 1 November), Penela castle and Santiago da Guarda, the Ansião market on Saturdays and Coimbra about 40 minutes away by car.
The wooden windmill and the Bread Cycle centre, 3 km from Casa Pregueira — a short outing for a cold morning. Check the Bread Cycle opening hours with the Pousaflores parish council (236 655 464).
About 150 km of waymarked trails. For winter days, the gentlest ones: Ribeira do Tordo, with ruined watermills, and Ramalhal, the flattest in the network. In the rain the limestone gets slippery — wear proper shoes and check with the council that the trail is open.
Two chapels, two saints who refused to leave their place — stories passed down from grandparents to grandchildren. The Marzugueira festival is on 1 November, All Saints' Day.
Penela castle and, in Santiago da Guarda, the Manueline tower and Roman villa, a national monument since 1978 — good for a grey afternoon.
The university city is about 40 minutes away by car. Tomar, the Templar city, and the Sanctuary of Fátima are also within a day trip.
The weekly Ansião market, on Saturday mornings — to take home what the land gives in season.
After a walk, a generous table is welcome: Carlos has left 14 suggestions in Ansião, Alvaiázere and around. To take home, goat and sheep cheese from Paladares da Aveleira — open until 19:00 on Saturdays.
A 19th-century stone house with a traditional fireplace, wood stove and air conditioning, for up to 6 people, in Pousaflores.
Approximate distances and times from Casa Pregueira, in Pousaflores. Winter opening hours may change — check before you go.
A 19th-century stone house with a fireplace in Pousaflores, Ansião — 3 bedrooms, up to 6 guests.
Winter by the fireplace →