Castelo Branco: Itinerary to visit inland region of portugal

Castelo Branco is a charming city in a municipality full of history and natural beauty. Located in the central inland region of Portugal, this destination is perfect for those who want to explore some of the lesser-known areas of our country.

Castelo Branco has a rich history dating back to the 12th century when it was founded by the Templars. The city played a crucial role during the reconquest and boasts an impressive architectural heritage. It may not really be the most well-known destination among Portuguese tourists and those visiting Portugal, but that is exactly what makes this city and region.

When travelling through the region and the municipality of Castelo Branco, which is located close to Serra da Estrela, you will find the village of Monsanto. In the surrounding area, there are also other places of tourist interest, such as Idanha-a-Velha or even the Termas de Monfortinho, next to the border with Spain.

The city of Castelo Branco

Castelo Branco has its roots in the Middle Ages, and its history is closely linked to the Order of Christ, which was founded in 1213. In the past, the city prospered during the medieval era and retains traces of that time to this day. As we walk through the streets, you will find historic buildings, centuries-old churches and gardens that tell a little of the city’s history. In these streets, you will still find many traditional stores, aimed essentially at their inhabitants and not so much at mass tourism.

What to visit in Castelo Branco

The best way to visit Castelo Branco and its historic area is to walk along its cobblestone streets. Be sure to visit the following attractions:

Episcopal Palace Gardens

This is one of the highlights of Castelo and it was where we stayed the longest during our short stay in Castelo Branco. The baroque garden, built in the 18th century, is a true oasis in the heart of the city featuring ornate fountains, tile panels, statues and a maze of bushes. It has several levels, including the water games, which were very characteristic in the past, and the Staircase of the Kings and the Staircase of the Apostles. These staircases are decorated with statues.

What to visit in the surrounding area

When visiting Castelo Branco, complete your tour in this municipality and region by visiting the historic villages that surround it.

Historic villages:

Monsanto

It is by far the best known. Village where houses coexist with huge rocks, m enormes rochedos, using them as a roof or walls and also as a protective element of its old castle. Monsanto is a village that we consider unmissable.

Idanha-a-Velha

It is a small, almost uninhabited historic village, with a museum centre and an imposing wall that is certainly worth a visit.

This village dates back to Roman times, and its a living testimony to the various civilizations that passed through there and left their mark.

Sortelha

It is another small historic village protected by an imposing wall. Its historic center is in excellent condition, providing an authentic journey through time.

You can and should still visit the adjacent municipalities and climb to the Torre in Serra da Estrela, the highest point in mainland Portugal.

Nature and Adventure

The municipality of Castelo Branco is blessed with a diverse natural landscape, ideal for outdoor activities. The mountains and valleys offer excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling and nature observation. We suggest:

• Serra da Gardunha: It is a perfect place for hiking, offering trails and trails that vary in varying degrees of difficulty and provide stunning views of the region.
• Santa Águeda Dam: Ideal for fishing, picnics by the lake and long walks in the majesty of nature.
• Geopark Naturtejo: A UNESCO-recognized geopark that covers several areas of geological and historical interest, perfect for geology and history enthusiasts. Discover the places identified in the Naturtejo Geopark and try to go to some.

Castelo Branco Map

Castelo Branco is located in the interior region of the country next to Serra da Estrela.

Accommodation suggestions

In Castelo Branco, there are several central accommodation options, as well as the Mélia Castelo Branco. If you opt for historic villages like Monsanto, you’ll find suggestions like On The Rocks that let you experience life in these villages.

See even more available accommodations.

What to do and visit near Castelo Branco

Many places in the surrounding area are worth a visit, in addition to the historic villages already mentioned. From more historic villages to spas, there is plenty to choose from. The places we highlight the most are:

• Piódão: some distance away is the most Portuguese village in Portugal and one of the most beautiful in this area. Its schist houses with blue doors are a constant and its postcard.
• Monfortinho Hot Springs: Next to the border with Spain we find the Monfortinho thermal area, one of the oldest and most prestigious hot springs in the country. It is a calm, serene place where you can meet nature.
• Serra da Estrela: Serra da Estrela can be visited during all seasons. Your beauty is a constant. In winter it is cold and snow. In summer it’s the heat, the green of nature and its waterways.

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