Figueira & the Mondego

The castle above the rice fields, the great beach and sunset at Cape Mondego.

A day in central Portugal for those who already know Lisbon. It begins at Montemor-o-Velho castle, above the rice fields of the Mondego, continues to the vast beach of Figueira da Foz and to Buarcos, and ends with sunset in the Serra da Boa Viagem. The pace is gentle, with time for lunch by the sea.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Castelo de Montemor-o-Velho

   Montemor-o-Velho castle looks down from its hilltop over the flat fields of the Lower Mondego, where rice is grown. Inside the long, well-preserved walls are a church, the remains of the old palace and wall walks overlooking the paddies, which change colour through the year. It is a quiet castle that few visitors reach. Go up in the morning, when the air is clear, and wear sturdy shoes. For lunch, look for a local rice dish in the town, paid separately.

2. 

   2

   Figueira da Foz

   Figueira da Foz is a beach town at the mouth of the Mondego, known for its enormous beach, so wide that it takes a good walk to reach the water. Along the seafront are the promenade, the casino and café terraces, and near the river stands the small fort of Santa Catarina. It is a good place to walk and breathe the sea air. Meals are paid separately. Try fish or seafood at a restaurant near the beach and, if it is windy, bring a jacket.

3. 

   3

   Buarcos

   Buarcos is the old fishing village at the northern end of the Figueira bay, still with stretches of the wall that once defended it from attacks by sea. It has narrow streets, low houses and a seafront walk where the waves crash against the sea wall on rough days. It is quieter than Figueira and a very good place for lunch. Order grilled fish or a fish stew, paid separately, and afterwards walk along the promenade towards the beach.

4. 

   4

   Serra da Boa Viagem

   The Serra da Boa Viagem is a small pine-covered range rising north of Figueira da Foz and ending at the sea at Cabo Mondego, with its lighthouse. The road climbs past viewpoints over the bay, the town and the beach stretching into the distance. There are short trails and shaded picnic tables for a break. Your driver takes you from one viewpoint to the next, at your own pace. Stay for sunset, when the sun sinks into the Atlantic, and bring a warm layer.

The essentials

Duration

9 h · Full 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

Anyone who already knows Lisbon and wants the centre of Portugal.

The route