The best walks and hikes around National Park Serra São Mamede

A place to visit every month. It's wonderful.

Imposing building in which the Centro de Dia senior center is located

The current pillory dates from the years immediately following the granting of the New Charter by King Manuel in 1512 and reflects his Manueline, albeit very rustic, style. The monument stands in front of the 16th-century district jail building and next to the clock tower, also from the 16th century, in the square that bears his name. It stands on a base with four octagonal steps and consists of an octagonal shaft set directly into the upper step, formed by five drums with mortar joints.

The fortified town of Marvão, 12 kilometers from Quinta do Pomarinho, is also known as the "Eagle's Nest." It boasts a spectacular location on a granite cliff, atop one of the peaks of the Serra de São de Mamede mountain range. Completely walled, Marvão is situated in the Alto Alentejo region, near the Spanish border, which was once controlled from the village. The town of Marvão owes its name to Ibn Maruane, an Arab military leader who sought refuge here in the 11th century. He hid on Mount Ammaia and built a castle there, in the most remote and inaccessible spot he could find. Years later, the castle was transformed into a medieval fortress. Its location made it a strategic defensive position, nestled among hills with slopes to the north, south, and west, accessible only on foot from the village. For many years, Marvão was a municipality heavily and significantly involved in numerous military conflicts in the region. Today, Marvão is a rather sleepy town, but one where you can enjoy wonderful walks. More information can be found here: https://www.feriasemportugal.com/marvao

Marvão is dominated by its imposing and well-preserved medieval castle. The fortified walls embrace the entire village, enclosing a maze of narrow cobbled streets, white houses with red roofs and small flower-filled squares. The views from the walls are breathtaking, taking in a vast panorama of hills, valleys and, on a clear day, all the way to the Serra da Estrela mountain range. Marvão is a true open-air museum, preserving the atmosphere and architecture of centuries past. It is on the UNESCO tentative list of potential World Heritage Sites, and is an ideal destination for those seeking history, tranquility and spectacular scenery.

Fabulous view over the village of Castelo de Vide. Several trails, paths and roads for access.

Built before 1570, at the height of the Portuguese Renaissance, the chapel of Nossa Senhora da Penha stands tall at the top of the Serra de São Paulo, at an altitude of 710 metres. To get there, you have to climb a steep staircase, an effort rewarded by the serenity of the place and the breathtaking views. Although the original image of Senhora da Penha was stolen, a replica now occupies its place on the altar. From the top, the view is breathtaking: the town stretches out below, with its watchful castle, white houses and rolling fields; to the east, the imposing quartzite ridge of Marvão stands out; in the background, the River Sever marks the border, and to the north the horizon is bordered by the Açor, Gardunha and Estrela mountains.

Roman footpath. Much uneven. Wear good walking shoes.