BEIRAS
The region of Beiras is located in the central part of Portugal and is basically a country within another country. It goes all the all from the west coast to the border with Spain, which means there are very diverse landscapes and big contrasts: beaches, caves, mountains, medieval villages, big cities... For these reasons it’s divided into two sub-regions: Beira Interior is located inland and Beira Litoral is the section near the coast.
In the countryside of Beiras there is a network of 12 incredible historical villages. It’s a very peaceful area of the country, with very old traditions and customs, where many locals rely on agriculture and farming. In some villages crossing the medieval walls and wandering in the centre almost feels like travelling back in time. Serra da Estrela Natural Park, where the highest peak in Portugal mainland can be found, is located in this region.
Towards the seaside the population increases and the scenery is completely different. There are bigger towns, more young people and beautiful beaches. The historical heritage is still very rich, with many beautiful monuments, old buildings and interesting churches. Apart from these there are also fishermen towns with a laid back vibe, where surfing is the main activity thanks to the great swell. In the surrounding area there is an interesting mix of things to do and visit: Serra d’Aire e Candeeiros is a Natural Park that hides the biggest limestone plains in the country, Fátima's sanctuary is a very important religious site and Batalha and Alcobaça monasteries are both UNESCO World Heritage.
In the countryside of Beiras there is a network of 12 incredible historical villages. It’s a very peaceful area of the country, with very old traditions and customs, where many locals rely on agriculture and farming. In some villages crossing the medieval walls and wandering in the centre almost feels like travelling back in time. Serra da Estrela Natural Park, where the highest peak in Portugal mainland can be found, is located in this region.
Towards the seaside the population increases and the scenery is completely different. There are bigger towns, more young people and beautiful beaches. The historical heritage is still very rich, with many beautiful monuments, old buildings and interesting churches. Apart from these there are also fishermen towns with a laid back vibe, where surfing is the main activity thanks to the great swell. In the surrounding area there is an interesting mix of things to do and visit: Serra d’Aire e Candeeiros is a Natural Park that hides the biggest limestone plains in the country, Fátima's sanctuary is a very important religious site and Batalha and Alcobaça monasteries are both UNESCO World Heritage.
- Main towns: Coimbra, Viseu, Castelo Branco and Leiria.
- Highlights: Natural Landscapes; Gastronomy; Wine; Historical and Cultural Heritage; Beach; Water Sports.
- Weather: Near the sea the temperatures are milder, whereas to the east the temperature span is wider, with hot Summers and cold Winters.
- Getting in and out: Porto's airport is the one closer to the northern part of the region and Lisboa's airport is closer to the southern part. There is a good railway connection to the main towns in Beira Litoral.
- Getting around: Having a car to drive around is highly recommended.
- Nearby regions: Porto, Douro and Trás-os-Montes are near the northern portion. Lisboa, Estremadura & Ribatejo and Alentejo are the closer regions to the southern part.
- Journal Posts: Aldeias de Xisto; Winter Destinations; Natural Parks; Serra de Aire e Candeeiros.
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