Portugal is renowned for its beautiful landscape with an intriguing mix of mountainous terrain and the Atlantic coastline.
There’s no shortage of inviting sandy beaches or cliffs to explore, plus an abundance of culture to soak up in every corner of the country, particularly in its ‘cultural capital’, Lisbon.
Nestled in the heart of Portugal is a hidden gem of sorts: the quaint Castelo Novo.
The charming village, dating back 800 years, was named one of the world’s best tourism villages by the UN’s World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). It showcases Portugal’s rich history and heritage.
It won accolades for its commitment to sustainable practices, enhancement of local community opportunities, and extreme visitor safety.
As for cultural and natural assets, and conservation efforts, Castelo Novo is also lauded for being entirely carbon emission-free.
Tourists flock to see the village’s archaeological highlight, the Roman Baths of Quinta do Ervedal. UNWTO praised the destination, saying: “The oldest mention of Castelo Novo, then called Alpreada, dates back to around 1202 AD.”
Furthermore, they remarked: “To protect his kingdom against any potential threats, King Dinis rebuilt the village castle adopting typical Gothic features and commissioned several Medieval-style buildings.”
With five electric vehicles for transporting tourists from nearby train stations, Castelo Novo sets the benchmark for green travel.
One captivated tourist exclaimed: “A secret kingdom. Located in the heart of the Beira Baixa Region, once the capital of Portugal, it is a picturesque stone village that looks out onto the Garduna mountains. It has a terrific visitor centre.”
Another enchanted visitor shared: “The castle on top of the hill is a gem. Once at the top, the view of the surrounding area is superb even on a grey day.”
Tourists who want to explore the village’s rich history can explore how its past inhabitants tread grapes and marvel at the grand manor houses.
Those seeking an active adventure can follow the so-called Miller’s Route to discover the windmills that testify to the village’s former way of life.
Journeying from Lisbon will take visitors roughly three and half hours by train or a quicker two and a half by car.
Nestled not far from Coimbra, a delightful riverfront city renowned for its medieval Old Town, Castelo Novo promises a splendid extension to any Portuguese sojourn; a mere under two-hour drive makes it an accessible retreat for daytrippers.
Castelo Novo graced the list of Europe’s best tourism villages in 2022, as recognised by the UNWTO.
In the 2024 ranking, Portugal placed twice on the list with Santa Cruz da Graciosa – a Portuguese municipality on the volcanic island of Graciosa, in the archipelago of the Azores.
Óbidos is a town and a municipality in the Oeste region near the West coast. Close to the historical province of Estremadura, and the Leiria district, the beautiful town proper has approximately 3,100 inhabitants.