Fundão Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions in Fundão, from natural wonders to cultural experiences and culinary delights. Read our ultimate guide to plan your trip to this charming town in Beira Baixa, Portugal.


Introduction to Fundão

Nestled in the heart of Beira Baixa, Fundão is a small town in Portugal that offers visitors an authentic taste of traditional Portuguese lifestyle. Historically known for its cherry orchards, the town is now famous for its outdoor activities, rich cultural heritage, and delightful cuisine. Its cobbled streets, historical buildings, and beautiful landscapes make it a charming destination for travelers seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

List of Places to Visit in Fundão

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or an adventurous holiday, Fundão has something to offer. Here’s a list of top attractions to help you plan your route:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Municipal Museum of Fundão: A must-visit for history buffs, this museum showcases the town’s rich cultural heritage through exhibits that include archeological finds, traditional costumes, and ancient farm tools.
  • The Castle of Fundão: Built during the 12th century, the castle was destroyed during the Napoleonic Wars and subsequently restored in the 20th century. It now offers stunning panoramic views over the town and surrounding hills.
  • The Church of St. Martin of Tours: This church is one of the oldest in the region and dates back to the 16th century. It features a beautiful Manueline portal, and its marble altar is a marvel of Baroque art.

Natural Attractions of Fundão: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Serra da Gardunha: This mountain range boasts some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Portugal. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and explore ancient ruins and rock carvings along the way.
  • Cherry Blossom Route: If you visit Fundão in the spring, don’t miss this scenic drive that winds through the cherry orchards that bloom in March and April.
  • Praia Fluvial de Janeiro de Cima: This river beach is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. It’s surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a peaceful escape from the town’s hustle and bustle.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fundão

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Fundão is the perfect destination for hiking and biking. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • Serra da Gardunha Trail: This 12 km trail follows the mountain range’s ridgeline and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • Cherry Blossom Trail: This 30 km trail winds through the cherry orchards that surround Fundão and is especially beautiful in the spring when the trees are in bloom.
  • Ecovia do Amparo Trail: This 10 km trail runs along the Zêzere River and is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. It offers views of the river, hills, and countryside.

Best Things to Do in Fundão: Activities and Tours

There’s plenty to see and do in Fundão, from guided tours to outdoor activities. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Visit a cherry orchard: The town is famous for its cherry production, and you can visit a local orchard to pick your own fruit or learn about the cherry harvest and production process.
  • Take a guided tour of the town: A guided tour of Fundão’s historical and cultural highlights is a great way to learn about the town’s history and experience its charm.
  • Go paragliding: The town’s mountainous terrain makes it a popular destination for extreme sports enthusiasts, and paragliding over the valleys and hills is a breathtaking experience.
  • Taste the local cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying the town’s most famous dishes, like cozido à portuguesa (Portuguese stew) and sweet pastries made with cherries.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fundão

Are you planning a week-long trip to Fundão? Here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time in town:

Day Activities
1 Guided tour of the town
2 Visit to the Municipal Museum and the Church of St. Martin of Tours
3 Hike along the Serra da Gardunha trail
4 Paragliding over the valleys and hills
5 Visit a cherry orchard
6 Swim at Praia Fluvial de Janeiro de Cima and picnic in the surrounding countryside
7 Drive the Cherry Blossom Route

Food and Drink Scene of Fundão

The town’s cuisine is deeply rooted in the local culture and traditions, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and ancient recipes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cozido à Portuguesa: A hearty stew made with a variety of meats and vegetables, including cabbage, potatoes, and carrots.
  • Cherry Pastries: Whether it’s a traditional bolo de cereja (cherry cake) or a crispy pastel de nata (custard tart) with cherries, these desserts are a delicious way to enjoy the town’s cherry harvest.
  • Cheese from Beira Baixa: Made from sheep’s milk, this cheese is a staple of the local cuisine and is often served in traditional dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Ginja: A liquor made from sour cherries and infused with cinnamon and other spices. It’s a popular after-dinner drink in Fundão and the surrounding region.
  • Local Wines: The region is famous for its crisp, refreshing wines, like the Castelo Rodrigo white wine and the Almeida red wine.

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

There are plenty of accommodation options in Fundão, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best places to stay in town include:

  • Casas da Estalagem: Located in a restored 17th-century building, these cozy guesthouses offer a comfortable stay in the heart of the old town.
  • Casa Petrus Guterri: This charming bed and breakfast is a great choice for families or couples looking for a peaceful retreat in the countryside.
  • H2otel Congress & Medical Spa: This modern hotel offers luxurious amenities like an indoor pool, spa services, and a sophisticated restaurant.

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

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or local products to bring home, Fundão is the perfect place to shop. Here are some of the best items to add to your shopping list:

  • Cherry products: From canned cherries to cherry jam and cherry liquor, these products are a delicious reminder of the town’s cherry harvest.
  • Handmade Crafts: You can find a variety of handmade crafts in the town’s shops and markets, from embroidered linens to ceramic pottery and handmade soap.
  • Local Wines: Take home a bottle or two of the region’s famous wines to enjoy with your friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Fundão

Fundão is a town with a strong sense of community and traditions. Some of the local customs and cultural highlights include:

  • Carnaval dos Caretos: Held every year in February, this colorful festival is a celebration of local folklore, featuring parades, dances, and traditional costumes.
  • Cherry Harvest Festival: This festival takes place every year in June and is a celebration of the town’s most famous fruit. It features cherry tastings, traditional music and dance performances, and other fun activities.
  • Religious Festivities: There are several religious festivities throughout the year, including the Feast of St. Martin (the town’s patron saint) and Holy Week processions.

Best Time to Visit Fundão

The best time to visit Fundão is from March to June when the cherry trees are in bloom, and the countryside is alive with color. The town’s festivals and cultural events also take place during this period, making it an ideal time for visitors to experience the local traditions and customs.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fundão

To help you make the most of your trip to Fundão, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, especially the cherry-based dishes.
  • Visit the town’s museums and historical landmarks to learn about its rich cultural heritage.
  • Take advantage of the town’s outdoor activities, like hiking and paragliding.
  • Explore the surrounding countryside to enjoy the region’s natural scenery.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the town’s traditions and customs.
  • Leave trash in public areas or damage natural sites.
  • Disrespect the local culture or customs.
  • Ignore safety guidelines when engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Fundão is generally a safe town for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly atmosphere. However, it’s important to take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities, especially when hiking or paragliding. In terms of health, the town has several medical facilities, and travelers should have their necessary vaccinations before visiting.

Safety in Fundão

  • Always follow safety guidelines when engaging in outdoor activities.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Be vigilant when using public transportation and avoid carrying valuables in crowded areas.
  • Keep your passport and other important documents in a safe place.

Health in Fundão

  • Make sure you have medical insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation.
  • Bring any necessary medications with you and keep them in a safe place.
  • Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
  • Drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid stomach issues.

Getting to Fundão: Transportation Options and Logistics

Fundão is located in the central region of Portugal, making it accessible by several transportation options:

Airports Near Fundão

The closest airport to Fundão is the Lisbon Portela Airport, which is approximately 230 km away. Other airports in the region include Porto Airport, which is around 250 km away, and Faro Airport, which is roughly 450 km away.

Bus Stations Near Fundão

Fundão has a central bus station with connections to several destinations in Portugal. Other nearby bus stations include Covilhã and Castelo Branco.

Other Options

You can also reach Fundão by train from Lisbon, Porto, and other major cities in Portugal. The town has a train station with regular connections to Lisbon and Porto.

How to Get Around in Fundão

Fundão is a small town that you can easily explore on foot. However, if you want to visit the surrounding areas or engage in outdoor activities, you can rent a car or a bike or use public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Fundão: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for other destinations to explore after visiting Fundão, here are some nearby places to add to your itinerary:

  • Serra da Estrela: This mountain range is home to Portugal’s highest peak and offers stunning natural scenery, hiking trails, and ski slopes.
  • Historic Villages of Portugal: The region is rich in history, and nearby medieval towns like Belmonte and Sortelha are worth a visit.
  • Coimbra: This ancient university town is located approximately 120 km from Fundão and is famous for its rich cultural heritage and academic reputation.

Conclusion

Fundão is a charming town in the heart of Beira Baixa, Portugal. With its natural attractions, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, it offers visitors an authentic taste of traditional Portuguese lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or an adventurous holiday, Fundão is a destination that should not be missed.

A view of the city. A view of the city.