Bussaco and Coimbra – A Mixture of Nature, History, and Tradition

Bussaco and Coimbra – A region of the purest nature and academic capital

Situated in the central area of Portugal, Bussaco forest is at the northwest end of the mountain that gives it its name and is a dream refuge for nature lovers.

Due to its geography, the rains and fog are frequent, which make this a place full of mystery and mysticism.

It is a refuge that, in the seventeenth century, was chosen by the well-known monks of the Order of Carmelites to settle their headquarters. This is tranquillity itself.

On this private visit, planned to your liking, you can see centuries-old trees, lakes and other centuries-old buildings that create an environment worthy of a retreat isolated from everything.
Without a doubt, it is one of the best destinations in the world for those who like nature and hiking.

Thirty kilometres further south is Coimbra, the well-known student city, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is one of the Portuguese cities with the most history and greatest wealth, and it was the 2nd capital of the Kingdom of Portugal. It is believed that it was in Coimbra that D. Afonso Henriques was born.

It is a city that perfectly combines the tradition of its history with its cultural evolution to sustain its candidacy for the European Capital of Culture for 2027.

If you like Portuguese music, look for a fado house to listen to the famous Fado de Coimbra.

This is a region filled with historical monuments with strong Manueline-style influence and a symbol of academic life unique in the country. In addition, Coimbra has one of the oldest universities in the world.

A tour of magical woods and the old medieval town

On this private tour, explore trails and lakes to the sound of bird song, in a perfect location for hiking and reflections.

Walk through enchanted woods that are home to majestic trees such as redwoods, cedars and even a giant eucalyptus tree.

But that's not all. There are also convents, hermitages, chapels and even a Way of Cross waiting for you.
Get ready for a trip you won't forget.

In the midst of this pure nature, discover a royal palace transformed into a luxury hotel, the Palace Hotel do Bussaco, a setting out of a fairy tale.

And to eat, what do we have?

When you sit down at the table, the excellent regional gastronomy that so well characterises this area quickly demonstrates that you have made the right choice.

Prepare for an explosion of flavours if you choose the typical roasted piglet, but if fish is more your thing, be sure to try lamprey rice.

Finish the repast in the best way possible with the well-known pastries of Santa Clara or with an Arrufada.

But that’s not all: this tour doesn't end here.

In the afternoon you will have a guided visit to Coimbra, capital of academic traditions.

There you will find one of the richest libraries in Europe, the Joanina Library, on the university campus, which is one of the best examples of the Baroque style in Portugal.

Let’s not forget other emblematic monuments such as the Old Cathedral or the Monastery, an icon of Manueline architecture, in a region loaded with symbolism and medieval history.


Discover the whole history of a region in the midst of nature

If you're looking for a pure encounter with nature and want to get to know historic cities, this 12-hour private tour is exactly what you’re looking for.

It’s an experience that will leave you with a longing and wish to return.

Book this trip now and get to know some enchanted places and a city with so many stories to tell.