The charming village of Cinfães occupies the left bank of the stunning River Douro, with the majestic Serra de Montemuro hills as a breathtaking backdrop. Cinfães is a concealed treasure rich in history and natural beauty, offering a delightful escape in the heart of Northern Portugal.
This picturesque village holds a special place in Portuguese history as the childhood home of the nation’s first king, Dom Afonso Henriques. Raised by his tutor, Dom Egas Moniz, the lord of Cinfães in the 12th century, this region is steeped in historical significance.
The fertile lands of Cinfães are a testament to its agricultural heritage, with sheep, goats, and cattle farming being the lifeblood of the local economy. The area's natural beauty extends to the tranquil beaches near the Carrapatelo dam, where the calm waters invite visitors to enjoy water sports, swimming, and sunbathing.
For amateur Indiana Jones's, Cinfães is a treasure trove of archaeological sites dating back to the megalithic era, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient times. Whether you're here for the scenic landscapes, historical richness, or outdoor activities, Cinfães promises a memorable and enriching experience.
| Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Natividade de Escamarão
Strategically placed on the confluence of the rivers Douro and Paiva it was integrated into the Monastery of Alpendorada's influence. The village of Escamarão had always been an attractive walk-through zone within the sight of the monastery itself and an important point of pilgrimage. Thought to have been built in the 12th century although inscriptions found inside the main portal ascribe it to being from the 14th century. The church, Romanesque in nature, consists of a single nave and rectangular chancel, both defined by massive walls. The interior is lit mainly by narrow crevices opened on both elevations of the nave and chancel with a small rose window that tops the triumphal arch and a Gothic window that cuts the chancel's back wall.
Rua de S. Miguel, Souselo, Cinfães, Viseu, Portugal.
41° 03' 57.6" N | 08° 15' 25.4" W | +351 255 810 706 / 918 116 488
rotadoromanico@valsousa.pt | Website
Birthplace of the famed explorer Alexandre Alberto da Rocha de Serpa Pinto (aka Serpa Pinto; April 20, 1846 – December 28, 1900). The museum exhibits artefacts and memorabilia from his life and from his expeditions to Africa. The museum also has collections of artefacts found from local archaeological digs, notably from the Castro and Roman periods. The gift shop has a good selection of local arts and crafts. The museum first opened in April 2000 and is located in one of the oldest parts of town.
34 Rua Dr. Flávio Resende, Cinfães, Viseu, Portugal.
41° 04' 18.6" N | 08° 05' 25.3" W | +351 255 560 571
turismo@cm-cinfaes.pt | Website
| Serpa Pinto Museum
| Parque megalítico de São Pedro
Parque Megalítico de São Pedro archaeological site is straddled at 1,125 metres on Mountemuro Mountain in the district of Tendais. This fascinating location invites you to step back in time and explore ancient history. The park features a collection of dolmens, dating from the Neolithic period (around the mid-5th millennium BC) to the Chalcolithic era (3rd millennium BC). These prehistoric structures are believed to have served a funerary purpose.
At the heart of the park, you'll find the mamoa, an artificial mound composed of earth and stones, and the dolmen, a stone structure topped with a large cover slab. Although only three original granitic columns remain, they offer a glimpse into the past, with two adorned with intriguing engravings and one still exhibiting remnants of ancient painting. Visitors can marvel at these ancient monuments while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Parque Megalítico de São Pedro is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by prehistoric cultures. Discover this hidden wonder and connect with the timeless allure of Portugal’s ancient heritage.
São Pedro do Campo, Cinfães, Viseu, Portugal. | 41° 00′ 28.4″ N | 08° 05′ 00.4″ W
Situated on the bank of the River Douro this new Spa Resort has all the known thermal waters sought by its therapeutic value (musculoskeletal problems, skin and respiratory tract). The waters of the area have been sought after since the 12th Century. Now its possible to make use of the waters in modern facilities found here in a complex that promotes well-being and good health. Recommended treatments: Diseases of the respiratory system, Rheumatism, Musculoskeletal diseases and skin diseases. Water type - Sulphurous, Bicarbonate, Sodium Bathing Season - All-year pH level: 9.2 Water temperature: 62.
Disabled access.
Monday - Saturday: 08h00 – 14h00/15h00 - 21h00, Sunday: 08h00 - 12h00
Caldas de Aregos, 4660-013 Resende, Portugal.
41° 06' 08.4" N | 08° 00' 39.5" W | +351 254 875 259
geral@termas-caldasdearegos.com | Website
| Termas Caldas de Aregos
In the vicinity of Cinfães, between the green of the riparian hillsides and the waves of the Douro's water, in the bay of Porto Antigo, we can find the Porto Antigo Hotel. A restored manor house that once belonged to the African explorer Alexandre Alberto da Rocha Serpa Pinto.
Everything here was created for the comfort of clients during their stay. At your disposal, there are 23 rooms and a magnificent view of the river's lagoon, restaurant, bar, terrace, swimming pool, conference and banqueting rooms and a modern river marina.
Porto Antigo-Oliveira do Douro, 4690-423 Cinfães, Portugal.
41º 05' 24.5" N | 08º 04' 44.7" W | +351 255 571 566 | geral@hotelportoantigo.com
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A converted and renovated 17th-century farmhouse with commanding views over the river Douro. The rooms are modern yet remain traditional, comfortable and welcoming. The air-conditioned rooms and apartments at Quinta da Ventozela come with a satellite TV. Each accommodation type has a private bathroom and wooden furniture. A continental breakfast is served in the living room of Quinta da Ventozela, which is decorated with antique furniture and charming lamps. There is also a winter garden and a TV lounge.
Outdoor activities such as canoeing and hiking are possible from the Quinta. Alternatively, guests can drive up to the Mosteirô Train Station, 15 minutes away, for a trip on a 19th-century steam train.
Lugar Do Casal, 4690-019 Cinfães, Portugal.
41º 05' 44.2" N | 08º 05' 43.9" W | +351 255 562 342 | info@quintadaventozela.com
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With a commanding view over the river Douro, this French-style 19th-century house is associated with the original company which built the famous Douro railway. Totally renovated and richly decorated the rooms are comfortable with modern amenities.
Rooms at Altamira Casa have parquet floors and large windows offering views of the surrounding scenery. They come with free Wi-Fi and cable flat-screen TVs. The bathrooms include toiletries. Guests can use free bikes to explore the local vineyards and restaurants of Cinfães. On-site, Altamira has a games room and barbeque facilities for outdoor dining in the garden.
Espadanedo 4690-119 Cinfães, Portugal.
41º 02' 54.7" N | 08º 03' 00.6" W | +351 255 620 020/1/2/3
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Located in the small village of Gralheira 1,152 metres up the Montemuro mountain the restaurant Encosta do Moinho is somewhat of a local hero. Renown and loved for its local cuisine of top quality utilising regional products. Its specialities include Gralheira roasted kid and regional sausages. The restaurant's wood stove cooks great grilled chicken as well as a range of pizzas.
Daily: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 - 22h00
42 Largo Eira do Adro, Gralheira, Cinfães (Viseu), 4690-300, Portugal.
41° 00' 09.4" N | 07° 58' 08.1" W
+351 255 571 159 |
encostadomoinho@sapo.pt | Website
Located 5km from the centre on Cinfães on the slope of the Serra do Montemuro, this great traditional Portuguese restaurant serving reasonably priced local fare with cordial smiles. Meat is the mainstay of the menu and is double-carbed with rice and chips, a typical thing in Portugal. One can always order a side plate of vegetables or salad to counterbalance the double carb situation. The food here is constantly of good quality and if you're lucky enough to be given a window seat in the right room you'll also be treated to the amazing vistas overlooking the valley below.
Tuesday - Saturday; 12h00 - 14h30/19h00 - 21h30, Sunday: 12h00 - 14h30, Monday: CLOSED
Azevedo, Tendais, 4690-760 Cinfães, Portugal
41° 00' 44.7" N | 08° 03' 04.1" W
+351 255 571 715
Great traditional locally sourced and rustic Portuguese food excellently prepared by talented chefs and served by friendly staff. The atmosphere is very homely with no pretension. Good honest food for a fair price.
Monday - Saturday: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 - 22h00, Sunday Evening: 12h00 - 15h00
Largo dos Carvalhos, Cinfaes 4690-300, Portugal
41º 00" 12.5' N | 07º 58" 10.9' W
+351 255 571 566 | recantodoscarvalhos2020@gmail.com
Cinfaes is 50.9 miles (81.9km) North Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport PORTO. GET A GREAT DEAL ON YOUR FLIGHT HERE:
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70 minutes from Porto along the A4 and N222. 57.3 miles (92.3km) south of Braga along the A11. GET A GREAT DEAL ON YOUR CAR HIRE HERE:
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The closest train station is 5.5 miles (9km) away across the river in Mosteirô. Use the Regional (Comboios Regionais) Linha do Douro service: Train Timetable | Comboios de Portugal Website |
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• Rede Expressos: Website Buses from various destinations including Coimbra, Lisbon and Viseu.
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