Templar Land
This was one of the last strongholds for the Knights Templar in Europe and their history colours the area. But the sights go back even further, through the Visgoths, Romans, and Stone Age man, even as far as over 450 million year old fossils.
The Monsanto and Penha Garcia walks can be combined into a day package. Please contact us for further information.
Penha Garcia
The Fossil Walk
go back in time….
Duration: 2hrs
Grade: Steep Sections
Penha Garcia is on the border of Spain and was an important defensive position for Neolithic man, the Lusitaneans, and the Romans. It is a much more peaceful place now, and the natural wonders take pride of place.
This walk winds through the village, and up to the remains of the castle where you get panoramic views of the Geopark and the dam. The path twists down to the river and on the way you start seeing the rocks with strange patterns in – the fossils of mud worm and trilobite trails. The river is cool and welcoming, and timed right, the old mill houses will be open for you to explore. Then further on, the welcoming sight of a natural swimming hole in the rock where you can cool off and have a picnic or snack break.
Everyone who comes to this region should stop in and explore the ‘most Portuguese village in Portugal’. One of the most scenic and picturesque villages, Monsanto is built into, under and on the Holy Mountain, with the iconic boulders creating a spectacular landscape.
Monsanto
The Boulder Walk
Incredible stones
Duration: 2hrs
Grade: Very Steep
This walk takes in the village of course, but also allows you to explore the boulder studded landscape and cork groves surrounding the village. Walk under the twin leaning boulders, and climb over and under many more on your way to the castle and ancient Roman chapel. Take in the view all the way to Spain, and across the Beira Beixa, before descending into the cool of the Cork groves and the chapel at the bottom.
Enjoy the natural beauty around you as you wind your way back up to the village, and then spend time exploring it – after a much needed refreshment!