Caves & Dinosaurs

A river under the ground, footprints 175 million years old and the green-roofed castle.

A day for younger explorers: you go down into the Mira de Aire caves, with a river at the bottom, walk beside dinosaur tracks around 175 million years old and finish at the green-roofed castle of Porto de Mós. Entry fees are paid separately and the drives are short. Made for families with children.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Grutas de Mira de Aire

   The Mira de Aire caves, discovered in 1947 in the Serra de Aire, are the largest show caves in the country. The visit descends by stairs and passages past stalactites, stalagmites and wide chambers to the bottom, where an underground river flows. The lighting gives the formations an almost theatrical look, and children usually love it. Entry is paid separately and the visit is guided. It is cool and damp inside even in summer, so bring a light jacket and shoes with a good grip.

2. 

   2

   Pegadas de Dinossáurios

   In an old quarry in the Serra de Aire, trackways left by sauropods, the great long-necked dinosaurs, have been preserved for around 175 million years. You walk across the limestone slab beside the prints, following them step by step to see where the animals went. Late in the afternoon, the low light makes them easier to see. Entry is paid separately. On hot days bring a hat and water, as there is no shade on the slab.

3. 

   3

   Castelo de Porto de Mós

   Porto de Mós castle stands on a hill at the gateway to the Serra de Aire e Candeeiros, recognisable from afar by its green-roofed towers, which give it a fairy-tale look. Inside are restored rooms and views over the town and the surrounding fields. Entry is paid separately. The visit is short and fits neatly between the caves and the dinosaur tracks. Go up late in the day, when the light warms the stone, and stop for a coffee in town.

The essentials

Duration

8 h · Day

Pick-up

At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.

Included

The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.

Not included

Entrance tickets and meals.

Who it is for

Families with children.

The route