Casas da Lapa

Activities

• The National Park has a unique landscape of dramatic glacial valleys (geologists will be in their element!), powerful waterfalls, primitive forest of black oaks and chestnut trees, and granite outcrops. Reception can provide maps and recommend walks of varying levels of difficulty in the mountains - particularly lovely in spring and autumn. I only had time to accompany the owners on a short hike out from Lapa to a cave and waterfall but it left me in awe at the beauty of the Beiras National Park
  
  
• Guided 4-day walking tour Click for itinerary
  
  
• 4x4 drive tours can also be arranged, as can mountain biking - the hotel has its own bikes you can borrow
  
  
• The caves of Moura and Suma are worth visiting; you can try your hand at abseiling, or (in winter) go skiing at Portugal's only resort
  
  
• Near the village are no fewer than 8 fluvial beaches, where in summer you can swim in wonderfully invigorating pure mountain water, or relax under the trees in pristine natural scenery. The park is also the source of the rivers Mondego, Zezere and Alva
  
  
• Discover the stunning villages of Liñhares and Piódão, and the crumbling castles which dot the landscape
  
  
• Seia (7km) has a Park Visitor Centre, a Toy Museum and a Bread Museum, Gouveia a zoo, Belmonte a museum recalling the rich Jewish heritage and the local woollen industry
  
  
• Relax around Lapa's 11x4m swimming pool, or check out the steam room, gym, and sauna. You can book a massage too