Pinhel Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful town of Pinhel in Portugal and discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Pinhel

Located in the Beira Alta region of Portugal, Pinhel is a small town filled with history and surrounded by beautiful valleys and hills. It is known for its traditional architecture, fortified walls, and stunning views. Pinhel is a great destination for those who want to experience the authentic side of Portugal and enjoy the outdoors. In this travel guide, we will take you through the top things to do, places to visit, and other essential information to help you plan your trip to Pinhel.

List of Places to Visit in Pinhel

Pinhel is a town filled with historical and natural attractions, and there is something for everyone here. Here are some of the top places to visit in Pinhel:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Pinhel Castle: The castle of Pinhel is a well-preserved castle from the medieval period that offers a stunning view of the town and the surroundings. The castle dates back to the 12th century and has undergone several restorations, making it a great place to learn about the history of the town.

  2. Igreja de São Luís: The Igreja de São Luís is a beautiful church located in the center of Pinhel. The church dates back to the 16th century and has a Baroque-style architecture that tells the history of the region.

  3. Museu Municipal de Pinhel: The Municipal Museum of Pinhel is located in the historic center of the town and showcases the rich history and culture of Pinhel. The museum has a collection of artifacts, artworks, and photographs that provide insights into the town’s past.

Natural Attractions of Pinhel: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Serra da Marofa: Serra da Marofa is a mountain range located near Pinhel that offers great hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The mountain range also has a prehistoric archaeological site that dates back to the Paleolithic period.

  2. Vale do Côa: The Vale do Côa is a natural park located near Pinhel that is known for its wide range of flora and fauna. The park has several hiking trails, waterfalls, and treks that offer breathtaking views of the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pinhel

Pinhel is a great place to explore on foot or bike, and there are several routes that offer a unique experience. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Pinhel:

  1. Historical Center of Pinhel: The historical center of Pinhel is a great place to explore on foot and learn about the town’s history. The route takes you through the narrow streets, churches, and museums that depict the rich history and culture of Pinhel.

  2. Rota da Maça: The Rota da Maça is a mountain bike route that takes you through the apple orchards, vineyards, and hills of Pinhel. The route is suitable for both beginners and experienced bikers and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Best Things to Do in Pinhel: Activities and Tours

Apart from museums and historical places, Pinhel also offers a range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Pinhel:

  1. Wine Tasting Tour: Pinhel is known for its local wines, and there are several wineries and vineyards near the town that offer wine tasting tours. These tours provide visitors with an opportunity to taste the local wines and learn about the wine-making process.

  2. Kayaking on River Douro: River Douro is a great place for kayaking enthusiasts, and there are several tour operators that offer kayaking tours in the region. These tours take you through the scenic river, and you can see the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pinhel

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Pinhel:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Historical Center of Pinhel
Day 2 Visit Pinhel Castle and Igreja de São Luís
Day 3 Hike the Serra da Marofa Trail
Day 4 Wine Tasting Tour
Day 5 Kayaking on River Douro
Day 6 Visit Vale do Côa Natural Park
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the town of Pinhel

Food and Drink Scene of Pinhel

Pinhel is known for its traditional cuisine and local wines. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Pinhel:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cozido à Portuguesa: Cozido à Portuguesa is a traditional stew made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and beans. It is a hearty dish that is perfect for colder months.

  2. Pastel de Molho: Pastel de Molho is a traditional pastry filled with minced meat, rice, and tomato sauce. It is commonly served as an appetizer in local restaurants and cafes.

Local Beverages

  1. Vinho da Beira Interior: Vinho da Beira Interior is a local wine produced in the Beira Alta region and is known for its fruity flavor and aroma. It is made with a variety of grapes, including Touriga Nacional and Jaen.

  2. Aguardente de Maçã: Aguardente de Maçã is a local brandy made from apples and is a popular after-dinner drink. It is typically served in small glasses and is known for its smooth taste and aroma.

Where to Stay in Pinhel: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pinhel has several accommodation options to choose from, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Pinhel:

  1. Casa da Cisterna: Casa da Cisterna is a romantic bed and breakfast located in the heart of Pinhel. It offers comfortable rooms with traditional decor and provides guests with a delicious breakfast every morning.

  2. Hotel Turismo de Pinhel: Hotel Turismo de Pinhel is a modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves local cuisine.

What to Buy in Pinhel: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Pinhel is known for its local products, and there are several items that visitors can take back as souvenirs. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back from Pinhel:

  1. Wines: Pinhel is known for its local wines, and visitors can take back a bottle or two of Vinho da Beira Interior as a souvenir.

  2. Olive Oil: The Beiras region is known for its olive oil, and there are several local stores in Pinhel that sell high-quality olive oils.

Local Culture and Customs of Pinhel

Pinhel is a traditional town, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and culture. Here are some of the local customs and culture of Pinhel:

  1. Dress Code: Pinhel is a conservative town, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing.

  2. Greetings: Portuguese people are warm and friendly, and visitors are expected to greet locals with a handshake, a smile, or a kiss on each cheek.

Best Time to Visit Pinhel

The best time to visit Pinhel is between May and September when the weather is pleasant, and the town is bustling with activities and events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pinhel

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and culture.

  2. Try local cuisine and wines.

Don’t:

  1. Wear revealing clothing.

  2. Litter or damage historical monuments.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pinhel

Pinhel is a safe town, and crime rates are low. Visitors are advised to take normal precautions such as not carrying valuable items, being aware of surroundings, and staying on well-lit streets at night.

Health in Pinhel

There are several hospitals and clinics in Pinhel, and medical facilities are top-notch.

Getting to Pinhel: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pinhel

The closest airport to Pinhel is Porto Airport, which is about 170 km away. Visitors can take a taxi or rent a car from Porto to reach Pinhel.

Bus Stations Near Pinhel

Pinhel has a bus station that connects it to other towns and cities in Portugal. There are several bus operators that provide regular services to and from Pinhel.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Pinhel by train or by renting a car and driving through the scenic countryside.

How to Get Around in Pinhel

Pinhel is a small town, and most of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also rent a bike or a car to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Pinhel: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Pinhel is located in the Beira Alta region, and there are several nearby destinations that visitors can explore, such as:

  1. Guarda: Guarda is a beautiful city located about 40 km north of Pinhel and is known for its historic center, cathedral, and museums.

  2. Viseu: Viseu is a city located about 70 km south of Pinhel and is known for its castle, museums, and local cuisine.

Conclusion

Pinhel is a hidden gem in the Beira Alta region of Portugal, and there is much to explore and experience in this charming town. From historical attractions and natural wonders to delicious local cuisine and wines, Pinhel offers visitors a unique and authentic glimpse into traditional Portugal. Plan your trip now to discover the beauty of Pinhel.

View over the town View over the town Castle of Pinhel Castle of Pinhel