Discovering Sertã: The Heart of Central Portugal
Sertã is where Central Portugal slows down. Between forested hills and ancient bridges, life moves gently — shaped by history, nature, and everyday warmth.
Sertã is where Central Portugal slows down. Between forested hills and ancient bridges, life moves gently — shaped by history, nature, and everyday warmth.
Chase winter sun on Madeira, Portugal, where dramatic cliffs, lush levada trails, coastal adventures, and local cuisine make every moment unforgettable. Explore the island’s wild beauty and vibrant culture, from wicker toboggan rides to serene forest yoga.
Lugar da Rua, nestled within Portugal’s Amarante region, is a captivating village where timeless history, rustic charm, and natural beauty converge. Visitors can wander cobbled lanes, explore ancient landmarks like the Pelourinho and Roman Bridge, and savor traditional meals such as cabidela rice and oven-roasted goat. With serene river beaches, nearby hiking trails through Serra do Marão, and authentic encounters at the Maro Interpretative and Cultural Centre, Lugar da Rua offers a true escape—inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the rhythms and stories of a bygone era.
Nestled deep in the rugged Montemuro mountains, the village of Mezio stands as a living testament to alpine resilience and Portuguese tradition. Wander its narrow, winding lanes flanked by granite cottages, and you’ll find Ervanária Ervital at the village’s crest—an organic farm where wild herbs are grown and harvested by locals for aromatic teas steeped in local heritage. Walking segments of the Camino de Santiago here leads you past traditional mills and lush, hilly stretches unique to the region.
Mezio’s rich religious legacy reveals itself in its Igreja Matriz and historic chapels, while the everyday heart of the village beats strongest around a table: savor local rice and beans with salpico, oven-roasted kid, and homemade cornbread at Restaurante do Mezio. Before leaving, explore the Cooperative of Craftsmen and its modest museum—a trove of woven linens, basketry, and handcrafted wooden dolls echoing Mezio’s enduring craftsmanship.
For an especially vibrant visit, come for the second Sunday in May, when Saint Michael’s festival fills the streets with song, dance, and artistry, inviting you to experience the living pulse of one of Portugal’s best-kept mountain secrets.