Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of central Portugal, the picturesque village of Monsanto has long been celebrated as the ‘most Portuguese village in Portugal.’ Visitors to this charming destination can embark on an immersive exploration, uncovering the iconic rock formations, boulder-strewn houses, and well-preserved 12th-century castle ruins that have captivated travelers for generations. Beyond the village’s striking visual appeal, the tour also delves into the rich local traditions, showcasing the use of granite in architecture and the thriving artisanal handicraft scene. But Monsanto is just the beginning – the journey continues as guests discover the natural wonders of the Beira region, from a refreshing natural swimming pool to a captivating waterfall.
Key Points
- The tour offers a guided exploration of Monsanto, a picturesque village known as the ‘most Portuguese village in Portugal’, featuring iconic rock formations and boulder-strewn houses.
- Visitors can discover the 12th-century castle ruins, the 16th-century Igreja Matriz church, and learn about the local traditions, including the use of granite in architecture and artisanal handicrafts.
- The tour includes a visit to Penha Garcia, where guests can admire the natural landscapes, geological formations, and a natural swimming pool with a cascading waterfall.
- The tour provides an opportunity to savor the flavors of the Beira region’s local cuisine during a delightful lunch with panoramic views of the rugged landscapes and picturesque villages.
- The tour covers filming locations used in popular productions like Game of Thrones, The Lusiads, and Capitão Falcão, offering a chance to explore the cinematic landscapes of the Beira region.
Tour Details
The tour starts at $717.32 per group up to 3 people, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
The duration of the tour is 1 day, and it’s led by live tour guides in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Pickup is included from Lisbon Portela Airport or Lisbon.
The itinerary includes a van transfer from Lisbon to Monsanto, a guided tour of Monsanto, a break for local lunch and food tasting, a transfer to Penha Garcia, a guided tour of Penha Garcia, and a return van transfer to Lisbon.
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended, as moderate walking is involved during the tour.
Itinerary Overview
Departing from Lisbon, a van transfer takes guests on a 3.25-hour journey to the captivating village of Monsanto, where they’ll embark on a 1.5-hour guided tour to uncover its rich history and charming architecture. After exploring Monsanto, the group will enjoy a 1.5-hour break for a local lunch and food tasting, taking in the panoramic views. Next, it’s a 15-minute van transfer to Penha Garcia, where a 1-hour guided tour awaits, including a visit to the natural swimming pool and waterfall. Finally, the group will begin the 3.42-hour van transfer back to Lisbon, concluding an immersive day exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Beira region.
| Itinerary Breakdown | Duration |
|---|---|
| Van transfer from Lisbon to Monsanto | 3.25 hours |
| Guided tour of Monsanto | 1.5 hours |
| Local lunch and food tasting | 1.5 hours |
| Van transfer to Penha Garcia | 15 minutes |
| Guided tour of Penha Garcia | 1 hour |
| Van transfer back to Lisbon | 3.42 hours |
Discovering Monsanto
After the van transfer from Lisbon, guests step into the captivating village of Monsanto, where the guided tour begins to unveil the settlement’s rich history and charming architectural features.
Monsanto, known as the ‘most Portuguese village in Portugal,’ offers a unique and immersive experience. Visitors can:
- Admire the iconic rock formations and boulder-strewn houses that seem to defy gravity, creating a surreal and picturesque landscape.
- Explore the narrow, winding streets and discover the 12th-century castle ruins, which provide panoramic views of the surrounding Beira Interior plains.
- Visit the Igreja Matriz, a 16th-century church featuring impressive Baroque elements and stunning azulejo tiles.
- Explore the local traditions, including the use of granite in architecture and the production of artisanal handicrafts.
Filming Locations in Monsanto
Monsanto’s distinct architectural features and picturesque landscapes have caught the eye of filmmakers, making it a popular filming location for various productions, including the acclaimed HBO series ‘Game of Thrones.’ The village’s medieval stone houses, winding cobblestone streets, and dramatic hilltop setting have provided the perfect backdrop for scenes set in fantastical realms. From the towering boulders that adorn the village to the expansive vistas of the surrounding countryside, Monsanto’s cinematic appeal is undeniable. Film crews have capitalized on the village’s unique charm, using it to transport viewers to enchanting, otherworldly settings.
| Production | Year | Scenes Filmed |
|---|---|---|
| Game of Thrones | 2015 | Various scenes, including Daenerys Targaryen’s throne room |
| The Lusiads | 2015 | Scenes depicting 15th century Portugal |
| Capitão Falcão | 2015 | Action sequences and period scenes |
Landscapes of Beira Region
The Beira region of central Portugal boasts a diverse array of breathtaking landscapes, from the rugged hills and valleys of the interior to the lush, verdant plains that stretch out towards the horizon. Visitors are captivated by the region’s natural beauty, which ranges from the dramatic, boulder-strewn hills of Monsanto to the serene, cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear swimming pools found in destinations like Penha Garcia.
This stunning natural environment offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and discovery, including:
- Hiking through the picturesque Beira countryside
- Admiring the panoramic views from the hilltops
- Cooling off in the refreshing waters of the natural swimming pools
- Immersing oneself in the tranquility of the region’s lush, unspoiled landscapes.
Lunch With Panoramic Views
During the tour, participants enjoy a delightful local lunch with panoramic views, savoring the flavors of the Beira region and taking in the breathtaking vistas that surround them.
The lunch break provides the perfect opportunity to refuel and take in the local culinary traditions. Diners are treated to a selection of regional specialties, carefully curated to showcase the best of what the Beira Interior has to offer.
As they dine, they’re treated to sweeping views of the rugged landscapes and picturesque villages that dot the horizon. This pause in the itinerary allows travelers to truly soak in the essence of the Beira region, creating lasting memories of its natural beauty and cultural richness.
Exploring Penha Garcia
After exploring the captivating village of Monsanto, the tour continues to the charming town of Penha Garcia, where visitors can discover its natural wonders.
Nestled in the heart of the Beira Interior region, Penha Garcia boasts a stunning natural swimming pool and a serene waterfall that beckon visitors to enjoy the refreshing waters and bask in the tranquility of the surroundings.
During the guided tour, guests will have the opportunity to:
- Admire the picturesque natural landscapes and geological formations.
- Explore the natural swimming pool, a popular spot for local and visitors alike.
- Witness the captivating waterfall cascading over the rugged terrain.
- Learn about the unique history and cultural heritage of Penha Garcia.
Important Travel Information
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential for this tour, as it involves a moderate amount of walking.
Visitors should also remember to bring a camera, water, and sunscreen to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Beira Interior region.
The tour includes comfortable car journeys in a Mercedes V-Class, providing a pleasant and efficient mode of transportation between the various destinations.
Guests can look forward to discovering the picturesque landscapes and exploring the historic villages of Monsanto and Penha Garcia, including a visit to the natural swimming pool and waterfall.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers a convenient and flexible experience for travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Participate in This Tour?
Children can participate in this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, with a moderate amount of walking involved. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the tour.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English, Portuguese, and Spanish?
The tour is offered in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, according to the details provided. It does not mention availability in any other languages. The tour guide provides live commentary in these three languages during the guided portions of the itinerary.
Is There a Discount for Larger Group Sizes?
The tour price is fixed at $717.32 for up to 3 people in the group. There are no discounts for larger group sizes. The price remains the same regardless of the number of participants, up to a maximum of 3 people.
Can the Pickup Location Be Changed From the Default Options?
Yes, the pickup location can be changed from the default options. Customers can arrange for pickup from any location in Lisbon, though additional fees may apply for pickups outside the designated areas.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Amount of Luggage Allowed?
There are no specific restrictions on the amount of luggage allowed. However, participants are advised to pack light and bring only essential items, as the tour involves moderate walking and transportation in a Mercedes V-Class with limited storage space.
Recap
This immersive tour offers a unique glimpse into the charming village of Monsanto, showcasing its iconic rock formations, historic castle ruins, and traditional granite architecture.
Visitors will also discover the picturesque Penha Garcia, enjoying a local lunch with panoramic views and exploring the natural landscapes, including a refreshing swimming pool and a captivating waterfall.
The tour provides a well-rounded experience, immersing travelers in the rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery of Portugal’s Beira region.
