Why move to Guarda District
Get as far from the crowds of the coast as possible in Guarda, perfect for anyone looking to experience Portugal at its most rugged and remote.
Guarda, the district’s capital city is Portugal’s highest city at a dizzying 1056 metres. It was originally a frontier station guarding against Spanish invasion, which explains the forbidding look of its fortifications and granite cathedral. But explore a little deeper had you’ll find arcaded streets, and lively squares. Locals describe the city as ‘forte, farta, fiel e formosa’ (strong, wealthy, loyal and beautiful).
Undeniably attractive are the many ancient towns villages scattered across the Beira Alta planalto, or tableland. With its boulder strewn landscape, this part of the district can seem cold and unforgiving, particularly during the hard winter months but it’s definitely well worth braving it. Trancoso, one of the best towns in this area, is contained within medieval walls and has atmospheric cobbled alleys filled with flowers, squares cast in shade and nicely preserved churches.
To the south you’ll find the magnificent Parque Natural da Serra de Estrela, or Star mountains. The highest range in Portugal, its mountain villages, glacial valleys and icy rivers are connected by numerous hiking trails. In the winter you can ski on the slopes or hike to the summit with its stone tower, or ‘Torre’, built to lift the mountain above 2000 metres. Visit mountaintop villages Manteigas and Seia during the summer months and you’ll be able to enjoy nature hikes by the tranquil Rio Zezere.
As you are passing through the mountains you might encounter some of the many sheep who call the Serra de Estrela home. They are most numerous around the town of Celorico da Beira, a medieval settlement where they still produce Serra, arguably Portugal’s finest cheese. And you won’t want to miss the winter cheese market or fair where you’ll be able to stock up on the very best local produce.
Much of the landscape and historic architecture of Guarda district is defined by its position as a frontier with Spain. During the 12th and 13th centuries numerous castles were erected along the eastern boundary to protect against invasion. Visit the flourishing town of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, particularly in spring when the imposing fortifications are softened by stunning almond blossom. Head a little south and you will find Almeida, one of the most contested towns, falling in and out of Spanish hands over the centuries. Its many formidable defences are still evident, not least the star shaped wall which still encircles the town.
A car is essential in Guarda, especially for reaching some of the more remote areas of the district. Away from the winding local roads you are excellently connected by motorway to Aveiro on the coast and Lisbon to the south.