The best walks and hikes around Castelejo

Built in the 18th century, this Baroque-influenced property is located in Largo da Bica. It features a rectangular backrest with two pilasters, topped with a beveled Latin cross and the coat of arms of King João V. It is accessed by a grand staircase decorated with flaming vases and modillions used to tether horses. It is a drinking water fountain.

Nestled on a hill overlooking the cliffs of the Serra da Gardunha, the village of Castelo Novo is linked to the early history of the nation. It was in 1208, during the reign of Sancho I, that Pedro Guterres donated the land—of which he was a grantee—in his will to the Knights Templar, and it is believed that at this time the castle was already under construction. Decades later, King Dinis ordered its structure to be renovated, and it was this campaign of works that gave the Castelo Novo fortress the Gothic characteristics it still displays today. Like many other villages along the Beira border, Castelo Novo grew in the shadow of and around its walls, with narrow streets winding up the hillside to the keep. In the center stands the Town Hall, with its arcades beneath the terrace of the main floor. In the center, integrated into the town hall's façade, stands the monumental and imposing King João V fountain, commissioned by King Magnanimous. Opposite, the Manueline pillory marks the center of the square, and further on, the main church dedicated to Our Lady of Grace rises, its white walls contrasting with the Baroque forms of the granite windows and portals. Throughout the village, as you wander the winding streets, you can discover architectural details, small traces that tell the story of its inhabitants. In Castelo Novo, be sure to visit: The castle; The Bica and King João V fountains; The main church and the Misericórdia church; The manor houses; The old gallows. The Castelo Novo Museum Center Alardo Park

At the top of Gardunha, almost 1,000 meters above sea level, stands the Castelo Velho site. From here, the view reaches the Castelo Branco plain and continues to the Tagus River, an endless horizon. Among balanced rocks, blocks sculpted by time, and curious granite forms, this place is a veritable open book of geology and a privileged viewpoint of the mountains.

Built in the 18th century, this Baroque-style fountain is located in the Largo da Bica square. Access is via a grand staircase.

It probably dates back to the time when King Manuel I granted the town charter in 1510.

The historic village is a surprise with its unique manor houses, once owned by noble families. The 12th-century castle, severely damaged during the earthquake of 1755, was given the name "novo," or "new," because another castle had already existed in its immediate vicinity, which had been abandoned due to its insufficient defensive capabilities.

In the middle of the Serra da Gardunha, the Historic Village of Castelo Novo rises in shades of green and gray. Built on granite, Castelo Novo preserves a unique architectural heritage over time. For gastronomy visit the restaurant "Le Lagarto".

One of the 12 Old Historic Villages of Portugal