For when you get bored of doing nothing at all

If you’re looking for somewhere beautiful, peaceful and off-the-beaten-track to spend your valuable holiday time, then Central Portugal is a great choice. Quinta da Lontra is situated in the Serra da Estrela region, Portugal’s highest mountain range, which is about 60 km from Coimbra.

If you come in the summer months you’re virtually guaranteed hot sunshine, so much of your time will probably be spent either lounging by the river on one of our small sandy and grassy beaches or swimming, fishing, paddle boarding & kayaking. We have 2 kayaks and 2 paddle boards which guests can use free of charge. To help entertain the children we have swings, lego, a climbing net and trampoline.

For those wishing to explore our enchanting valley and beyond, there are numerous walks we can recommend and places to discover and enjoy.

If you feel like you need some personal attention then we can help organize an on site session with massage therapist (minimum 2 ppl an hour each €50 for 60 minutes) or schedule a session off site.

Yoga, Craniosacral Biodynamic, Soundbath, Tribal Fusion Bellydance and many more therapies, practices and workshops are also available in the area.

Walking/hiking

You can walk for miles along the river just admiring the scenery, which includes huge granite boulders and beautifully secluded nooks and crannies.

There´s an abundance of wildlife that thrives in this region including mongoose, black kites, storks, foxes and even wild boar. If you´re up early enough (and if you´re very quiet) you may catch sight of one of the very shy European otters that live along the banks.

For the more serious hikers, there are walking trails in abundance in the area. We´re only an hour drive from the Serra da Estrela mountains (Mountain of the Stars), where breathtaking 360º views & endless mountain trails provide the perfect walking holiday.

Cycling

There is a cycle route on tarmac which follows the old railway line between Santa Comba Dão and Viseu. This is a great option for kids and families as the surface is good and there are no large hills. We can help with bicycles’ rental available in the neighbourhood. Bikes can be hired close to the start of the route https://www.ecopista-portugal.com/en/bike-rental.html.

Fishing

If you like to fish then bring a rod and try your luck with the carp and bream. Our kayaks and paddle boards are perfect for getting to some of the harder to reach fishing spots known only to the locals.

As well as catching your supper you may spot some of the local wildlife such as otters, kingfishers and kites.

Kayaking

If you tire of total relaxation we can put you in touch with local instructors of kayaking, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the Mondego river and fluvial beaches to the fullest.

See what´s available at www.opioneirodomondego.com

Sight-seeing

You can explore the many traditional unspoilt cobble stoned villages that feel as if time and tourism has somehow left them behind. Enjoy discovering the history and culture of rural Portugal, we can give you information about various markets, historical sites, local museums and beautiful mountain or river walks. Unfortunately public transport is very limited so you will need to hire a car to explore the area.

Places of interest within driving distance include:
- The charming cathedral city of Visêu (40 mins)
- The beautiful University city of Coimbra (1hr)
- The Manueline hunting palace and National Forest Park Mata Nacional do Buçaco (Buçaco National Forest – 1hr) - One of Portugal’s most ancient indigenous forests Mata da Margaraça (Margaraça National Forest - 45 mins)