Casa da Vinha:
The house is in an ideal spot as it is close to facilities yet in a peaceful countryside location. The Silver Coast is about 45mins - 1 hour drive away from quieter Sao Pedro de Moel beach to the larger busier seaside resort of Figueira da Foz. There is a casino here and a huge sandy beach. River beaches around this part of Portugal are a regular feature, usually they have seating and a cafe and the water is clean. The nearest to the house is Casal de Sao Simao about 5 minutes drive and this has a cafe and rugged scenery and some rock climbing. Mosteiro river beach is about 40 minutes drive away. Lousa is about 40 minutes away a fascinating drive with fantastic mountain scenery. There is a castle near the town centre and a natural spring swimming area with picnic tables. Pedrogao Grande features awesome scenery and mountains with deep gorges that contrast with the calm waters of the lakes, formed by dams and the intense green of vast wooded areas.
Nearby Penela is an unspoilt picturesque town dominated by the walls of a Moorish Castle with outstanding views of the Serra da Lousa and the village of Corujeira. Penela is host to a number of colourful folk festivals, the largest of which is the festival of Sao Miguel in September and well worth a visit. Coimbra is Portugal's third largest city and dates back to the 12th century. It is perched on a hill overlooking the River Mondego. The old city and the University crown the hill with the maze of old cobbled streets and main shopping area lie at the foot of the hill. There is plenty to do here, with shopping, nightlife, museums and historic monuments.
Golf can be found at Curia, 9 holes, about 50km away and Viseu with 18 holes is about 80km. The acclaimed Prai d'el Rey resort is about 70km.
Limited skiing is possible in the Serra da Estrela mountains about a 2 hour drive away.
Other Activities:
Lake beaches, market in Ansiao, Golf 50km, beach 50km, Coimbra City 45km, the Silver Coast about 45 minutes drive
