MADABOUTPORTO.COM welcomes you to Cinfães, a charming village lodged on the left bank of the River Douro, with the majestic Serra de Montemuro hills providing a stunning backdrop. This hidden treasure offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit destination in Portugal.
Cinfães boasts a rich historical heritage. It’s here that Portugal’s first king, Dom Afonso Henriques, was raised by his tutor, Dom Egas Moniz, the region’s lord during the 12th century. The village’s fertile lands have long supported farming, with sheep, goats, and cattle herding being the main livelihoods.
For those who love the water, the calm waters near the Carrapatelo dam offer ideal conditions for swimming and water sports, with several inviting beaches nearby. History buffs will also find plenty to explore, with numerous archaeological sites dating back to the megalithic era scattered throughout the region.
Whether you're here for the history, the scenic landscapes, or simply to relax by the river, Cinfães offers something for everyone. So come and immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this delightful village!
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 ascribes it 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 his artefacts and memorabilia from his life and 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
The Parque Megalítico de São Pedro is a fascinating historical site perched at an altitude of 1125 metres on Mountemuro Mountain in the district of Tendais, Portugal. This extraordinary site, dating back to between the Neolithic (5th millennium BC) and the Chalcolithic (3rd millennium BC), entices visitors to explore ancient dolmens with rich historical significance.
The park features a series of dolmens believed to have been used for funerary purposes. These ancient structures include the mamoa, an artificial mound of earth and stones, and the dolmen, a stone construction topped with a large cover slab. While only three of the original granitic columns remain, they still captivate with their historical charm. Two of these columns are adorned with intricate engravings, while one displays traces of ancient paintings.
Visiting Parque Megalítico de São Pedro offers a unique glimpse into prehistoric Portugal, where you can marvel at these ancient architectural feats and imagine the rituals of the past. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about ancient cultures, this site provides a serene and thought-provoking experience amidst stunning mountain views.
São Pedro do Campo, Cinfães, Viseu, Portugal. | 41° 00′ 28.4″ N | 08° 05′ 00.4″ W
The new Spa Resort appreciates all the known thermal waters sought by its therapeutic value (musculoskeletal problems, skin and respiratory tract). Situated on the bank of the River Douro. The waters of the spa have been sought after since the 12th Century. Make use of the waters and modern facilities found here in a complex that promotes wellbeing and good health. Recommended treatments: Diseases of the respiratory system, Rheumatism and 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
This property is a two minutes walk from the beach. Located in Cinfães in the Norte region, Casa da Barragem Douro has a balcony and river views. This holiday home features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking. The holiday home is equipped with three bedrooms, a bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with pool views.
There is an outdoor swimming pool and a terrace at this property and guests can go hiking and canoeing nearby.
Lugar de Torneiros,Cinfães 46, 4690-488 Cinfães, Portugal.
41° 04' 59.6" N | 08° 08' 29.6" W
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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 Ventuzela 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 Ventuzela, 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
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Nestled along the Douro River, Douro Hotel Porto Antigo. is housed in a historic building. It features an outdoor swimming pool, in-house massage palour and a restaurant serving European cuisine. The air-conditioned rooms at Douro Hotel Porto Antigo. have modern amenities, including a minibar and satellite TV. Most rooms have panoramic views of the Douro River. Some rooms have a private balcony. Guests with boats can dock right in front of the Porto Antigo and enjoy a free glass of port on the terrace. The hotel also offers various trips and activities such as boat cruises, kayaking, and canyoning. Restaurant Serpa Pinto serves traditional Portuguese dishes. Mosteirô Railway Station is 1.5km from Hotel Porto Antigo and Porto Airport is just a 60-minute drive away. Free parking is available on site.
675 Rua do Cais, 4690 - 423 Cinfães, Portugal.
41° 05' 23.4" N | 08° 04' 46.8" W
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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
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 81.9km (50.9 miles) North Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport PORTO. Website GET A GREAT DEAL ON FLIGHTS: |
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70 minutes from Porto along the A4 and N222. 92.3km (57.3 miles) south of Braga along the A11. GET A GREAT DEAL ON CAR HIRE: |
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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: |
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• Rede Expressos: Website Buses from various destinations including Coimbra, Lisbon and Viseu.
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