Discover Castelo Novo: History, Trails and River Landscape

Castelo Novo is a historic village in the amphitheatre formed by the Serra da Gardunha. Its predominantly medieval villagescape, with narrow, winding streets, makes the history of the place particularly visible. Those planning a trip combining culture, landscapes and activities by the water will find various options here for structuring their day.

Historic Village between Castle and Architecture

Castelo Novo is classified as a Conjunto de Interesse Público. One of its defining landmarks is the castle, built in the 12th century and severely damaged in the 1755 earthquake. The Casa da Câmara, the village’s most important public building, stands on the main square. It has two floors. The Chafariz de D. João V, which also has two floors, is located on its main façade.

An unusual historical trace is the Lagariça: a large wine press carved into the rock, used by the village’s inhabitants for centuries. The Núcleo Museológico de Castelo Novo displays, among other things, metal and ceramic objects. The Igreja Matriz de Castelo Novo dates from the 18th century. The cultural character of the village therefore extends from its medieval layout and castle to later religious and everyday artefacts.

Roman Past and Special Events

The Quinta do Ervedal belongs to the Castelo Novo civil parish. Archaeological finds identify it as a Roman vicus that was inhabited from the beginning of the 1st century AD until the 6th or 7th century. The Roman Ruins of Quinta do Ervedal have been classified as a Sítio de Interesse Público since 2023. The Festival de Música Antiga was held in Castelo Novo in 2023 and 2024. These past event years provide an interesting reference point for travellers who would also like to experience historic places through music and culture.

Hiking Trails, Cycling Route and Water along the Alpreade

For an active day plan, the PR11 hiking trail passes the Ribeira de Alpreade, Cabeço da Forca, the castle, the Capela de Santa Ana, the Lagariça, the Casa da Câmara and the Pelourinho. The Grande Percurso Ciclável AHP also passes through Castelo Novo. The Caminho do Moleiro runs along the banks of the Alpreade River and recalls the importance of the old rye mills that are still visible.

At Praia Fluvial de Castelo Novo, visitors can swim in the Ribeira de Alpreade beside cascades. Depending on their interests, a stay can therefore focus more on local history, exercise or an experience by the water. Families can include these different themes in their plans without limiting the trip to a single activity.

Regional Cuisine and Choosing Accommodation

Culinary specialities are also part of the village’s identity: Arroz tostado is a speciality of Castelo Novo, while Tigelada is a typical sweet dish. When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home, you can therefore consider whether you would primarily like to focus on the historic village culture, trails and cycling routes, the riverbank or regional specialities. Accommodation in Castelo Novo is a particularly natural choice if you would like to combine these different interests with the village as the starting point for your trip.

Getting There and Finding Your Way Locally

People arriving by train can request a free transfer from the tourist office. The request must be made at least 24 hours in advance. The tourist office of the historic village of Castelo Novo is located at Largo da Bica N1, 6230-160. This information is helpful for practical preparations, especially if you are planning to travel without your own car.

For further travel planning, you can also take a look at Penha Garcia, Unhais Da Serra, Foz Do Cobrão, Ermida, Castelo Branco, Álvaro, Ladoeiro and Sertã.

Back to the higher-level travel overview: Castelo Branco.