For a challenging 9 mile hike to explore the Schist Villages, I recommend Trilho das Aldeias Lousã. It runs along the Lousã mountain range following a path that connects numerous of the Schist Villages including Candal, Catarredor, and Talasnal.

For a more mellow but still challenging hike, I encourage you to venture along this trail to Talasnal. The village itself is absolutely gorgeous, and so is the walk to get there. There are a few bars and restaurants in the village to reward yourself at the halfway point.

If you are not in the mood for a hike, I strongly encourage you to venture up the road to Castelo da Lousã. The surrounding area is absolutely gorgeous, you can venture around the trails, or you can head down to the river beach and take a dip. There is an amazing restaurant just beyond the river beach called "O Burgo" that serves up some incredible, traditional Portuguese fare.

For delicious, traditional Portuguese food you need to go to O Burgo. Come hungry because they do not hold back on the quantity of food! I strongly encourage you to try the wild boar.

Here you can see bears, mouflons, lynxes and many other animals. In the park you can also get lost in a labyrinth of unique fruit trees. There is also an equestrian center, an eco-museum and cooperage museum. This is a wonderful place to visit if you are bringing your kids.

Just beyond Castelo da Lousã you will find this magical river beach nestled in the mountains. We recommend coming here for a quick dip on a hot day.

Right next to the hotel is our favorite, Q.B. Restobar. Go have the prawns!!!!