Piodão and Foz D'Égua: Lost pearls in Serra do Açor
Piodão, with its traditional shale houses, seems to have stepped out of a fairy tale. Narrow, winding streets unveil the rustic beauty of this village, providing a charming journey through time. As you stroll through its alleys, it's as if each stone is whispering ancient tales.
On the other hand, Foz D'Égua, a nearby locale, offers a breathtaking view where two rivers converge in a natural spectacle. The picturesque stone bridge and lush vegetation create a postcard-worthy scene, inviting visitors to get lost in the tranquility of this serene haven.
Who to get there?
As these villages are situated in the heart of the mountains without any available train lines, the best and most efficient way to reach them is by car. I guarantee that the journey through the Açor Mountains, leading up to the village, is awe-inspiring, boasting beautiful landscapes worthy of a painting.
You can rent a car from one of the available rental agencies in the country—I rented mine from the RecordGo agency. Another option is to join an organized tour. However, be mindful of the schedules and the limited time you may have in the village with this option.
The best route is to start from Coimbra, and the journey typically takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Given that Foz D'Égua is just a short 5 km drive from Piodão, taking approximately 10 minutes by car, I strongly encourage you to explore this charming village. You won't be disappointed.
Where to eat?
As options for restaurants are limited, which is typical for a small historic village, the available ones are of high quality and offer dishes that reflect the region's culinary traditions.
What defines the typical dishes of this region is its natural isolation. People had to live with what the mountains provided and sustain themselves from the modest yields of the terraced cultivation. The signature dishes of this area include goat 'chanfana' and pork 'bucho'.
I must note that the available options may not be budget-friendly, but indulging in one of these traditional dishes is an experience you won't regret.
If you decide to have lunch in the villages, it's better to opt for Piodão, as in Foz D’Égua, there's only one restaurant/bar that operates during the peak months of visitor influx, particularly in the summer and spring.
Where to sleep?
If you're looking to experience sleeping in a traditional shale house, nestled in a historic village surrounded by nature, where the night is filled only with the sounds of nature, and where you can lose yourself in the vastness of the village at night, Piodão offers a unique opportunity. Accommodation options in Piodão are limited, so if you're considering staying in the village, I recommend making your reservation well in advance. This advice is particularly crucial during the summer months. I recommend securing your booking at least one month in advance to ensure availability.
Accommodations in the neighboring villages of Piodão and Foz D’Égua:
If you choose to stay in the city of Coimbra, a vibrant and historic destination, it's important to note that Piodão is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away by car. Here are some examples of places to stay:
What to see and explore?
During your exploration, you'll be tempted to capture numerous photos and selfies to cherish later. Here are some pictures I took during my adventure in the village.
During your stroll, you'll encounter the most emblematic and historic places in the village.
Foz D'Égua
After exploring the charming narrow streets of Piodão, enjoying a warm drink or indulging in an ice cream, it's time to make your way to Foz D’Égua. Upon arriving in Foz D’Égua, park your car by the Foz Bar. If there's no space here, consider looking for parking within the village or along the road.
Nature Hike
If you enjoy nature trails and seek more adventure on your journey, consider hiking the PR2 ARG trail, 'Os Povos das Ribeiras de Piodão,' which connects the villages of Piodão, Foz D’Égua, and Chãs D’Égua. This circular trail spans approximately 10 km.
For a shorter option that covers the two villages featured in this guide, there's the PR2-1 trail, covering around 6 km. This trail showcases the most beautiful and scenic section of the main trail.
Final Thoughts
If you decide to book any of the hotels or accommodations suggested in this guide, it's highly encouraged to do so directly through this guide by clicking on the 'check prices' button. By doing this, you're supporting my work and providing the motivation for me to create more travel guides. Thank you for your support!
"Adventure is worthwhile in itself." - Amelia Earhart
"Nature always wears the colors of the spirit." - Ralph Waldo Emerson
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