Pet Friendly Villas In Serra Da Lousa

A Little Bit About Serra Da Lousa

If you are tired of crowded tourist destinations and seeking more authenticity, this 'forgotten' Eden will delight you. Few places in Europe can offer such lush, green and diverse countryside, warm (in summer) lakes and rivers of clear waters, beaches and cafe/restaurants, some days you might have all to yourself - way warmer and safer to swim than the ocean; but if you like the sea, the vast golden beaches of the Silver Coast are only an hour by car.

Although the area is completely unspoiled by mass tourism, the infrastructure is excellent and English widely spoken. Locals are genuinely welcoming to foreigners and very friendly. Restaurants are amazingly good value.

Apart from wild swimming, there is much to keep the visitor occupied. For example, the capital of the region, Coimbra (Portugal's third city) is home to one of Europe's oldest universities and the ancient streets and squares around it are a pleasure to explore. Not far away are the ruins of Conimbriga, former provincial Roman capital, with some of the best preserved mosaics in Europe. World Heritage Tomar is also an easy drive, as is the agreeable city of Aveiro, with its gondolas and the celebrated candy-stripe houses of nearby Costa Nova.

No visit is complete without a drive over the Serra da Lousã, which many be considered to be Portugal's most beautiful range of hills. The scenery is truly jaw-dropping and tucked away among it are 'lost' slate villages, some with little bars/restaurants and a very special atmosphere, high above the world.

This is the REAL Portugal. You will wonder why it is not better known, but be very glad you opted for a villa rental, apartment or cottage in this beautiful destination!