Routes

TERRITORY

In the heart of the interior center of Portugal, marking the border with the neighboring country of Spain, we face an arduous and mountainous region. The mountains of Marofa, Malcata and part of Estrela arise in this territory, where three rivers flow in sinuous forms: Coa, Mondego and Zêzere. For a long time this rugged territory has been giving rise to famous wines. Influenced by the mountain air, the vines are grown at an altitude with variations between 400 and 700 meters. Like the soils, the climate is also harsh, with freezing temperatures in the winter and very hot and dry summers. Beira Interior includes three producing sub-regions of wine: Castelo Rodrigo, Pinhel and Cova da Beira.

WINES

It is especially known for its unique white wines with great freshness and aromatic exuberance. But the region of Beira Interior is distinguished also by red, pink, whites and sparkling wines. Its distinctive characteristics result from the rough soil where the vines grow, the austere climate and the predominance of traditional varieties. In whites Syria stands out, the most planted in Beira Interior, Fonte Cal, Malvasia and Arinto. In reds, Rufete is the dominant, but there is also Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz.

EXPERIENCES

The city of Castelo Branco, located by south, can be the starting point for discovering the region. The castle or the baroque gardens of the Bishop's Palace are worth a visit before heading north. Along the way, let yourself be enchanted by the historical villages of Idanha-a-Velha, Sortelha, Mendo Castle, New Castle, Castelo Rodrigo and Marialva. The city of Guarda also preserves a rich heritage, including its Cathedral, the Walls or the old Jewish quarter. The natural heritage and landscape also dominate throughout this region, which gains a special beauty on the banks of  Coa, Mondego and Zêzere.