We are 2 reasonably fit couples in our 70s who enjoy walking, food, culture, and meeting people. From approx November 7-19, we will fly to Porto, pick up our rental car, drive east to the area of the Paiva walkways, then down to one or two of the schist villages, (maybe Monsanto?) , and then spending some time in Coimbra and Tomar, ending in Lisbon, with a visit to Sintra. 10 full days in Portugal.
We won’t stay in Porto, because we’ve spent time there in the past, but want to drive out on our first day to a good first stop. I would appreciate suggestions for this trip itinerary. Are there other spots besides Tomar and Coimbra that would be good central spots? Are the Paiva walk and bridge worth it? We all really love walking and being outside. Is travel during November going to present problems in terms of availability? Ideally, we’d like to limit ourselves to 2-3 places besides Lisbon to stay. It would be great to hear your recommendations. And we are adventurous and flexible. Many thanks!
Posted by
251 posts
Since you mentioned walking and being outside, I'll suggest that if you're considering Monsanto, you might also look into Guarda in the same part of the country. I found the town itself to be very pleasant and aesthetic, as are many others in Portugal, but what may interest you in particular is the near-by Serra de Estrela Nature Park. The rainy weather I encountered on my December visit prevented me from visiting the park, but a map I obtained at the friendly Guarda tourist office shows a hiking trail (the Mondego River walkway), along with several old sorts of buildings scattered around (among others, a convent, a few churches, an oil-press museum, and a "Manueline style" house).
Posted by
OP
Pleasant Valley
14 posts
Thank you!