Discover Quintela
Accommodation in Quintela
Quintela is a destination for travellers who want to combine sites of cultural and historical significance, experiences in nature and regional traditions. In Quintela, the Igreja Matriz de S. João Baptista and the Capela da Irmandade das Almas are among the places worth seeing. They give a trip a cultural focus, while the Caminhos de Fé trail directs attention towards granite landscapes and the source of the Vouga River.
Cultural history between Quintela and Lapa
Those interested in religious buildings and the history of the region can include the present-day Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Lapa in their travel plans. It was completed in 1635, after the Jesuits had taken over its administration in 1576. The Jesuit college of Lapa also dates from the 16th century. Aquilino Ribeiro has a personal connection to the town’s educational history: in 1895, he came to study grammar, Latin, logic and moral philosophy at the Jesuit college next to the Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Lapa.
The Pelourinho is also part of the historical character of the place. It stands on four octagonal steps and has an octagonal shaft decorated with spiral and botanical ornamentation. In Lapa, in the municipality of Sernancelhe, the Museu Monográfico do Ex-Voto is dedicated to the cult of Nossa Senhora da Lapa. The museum provides another way to explore the religious traditions associated with this place.
On foot through landscapes of granite and water
The Centro Interpretativo da Lapa – Terra, Gente e Bichos offers an interactive explanation of the cultural heritage and biodiversity of the Lapa Plateau. Travellers who want to learn about cultural heritage and biodiversity in an engaging way can incorporate this thematic perspective into their travel plans.
The Caminhos de Fé trail encompasses landscapes with granite outcrops and the source of the Vouga River. It begins near the Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Lapa and leads south from the village along the source of the Vouga River.
Cycling route and regional products
For a cycling trip, the Ciclovia da Lapa provides a clearly defined framework. It is located in the parishes of Granjal and Quintela da Lapa and is 6,800 metres long. The cycle path consists of three sections that run along the EN 584-2 for a total of almost seven kilometres. This means the route can be taken into account when planning the day based on its length and sections, without assuming any other characteristics.
Regional traditions are also part of the Quintela and Lapa experience. The Festa da Senhora da Lapa takes place every year on 15 August and continues to attract thousands of pilgrims. Regional products are presented and sold at the annual Feira Aquiliniana. Those who enjoy including local products and cultural events in their trip will find two distinct focal points here: a religious festival and a fair featuring regional products.
Which accommodation suits your travel plans?
When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday house in Quintela, it helps to make a clear choice between two travel focuses: culture and religious history, or landscapes and activity. For the timing of your trip, 15 August and the annual Feira Aquiliniana are important planning dates.
More places to search
If you would like to extend your travel plans beyond Quintela, you can also find information about Candal, Reriz, Sernancelhe, Armamar, Coval, Mangualde, Quinta Dos Pisões and Espadanedo.
To the higher-level travel overview: Viseu.
