While Lisbon and Porto continue to captivate the masses, a lesser-known Portuguese settlement has quietly earned a place on the world stage. The historic village of Castelo Novo has been officially recognised by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as one of the globe's top tourism villages.
A Medieval Marvel with International Acclaim
The UNWTO bestows this honour based on stringent criteria, including environmental responsibility, cultural preservation, safety, and benefits for local communities. Castelo Novo, founded around 1202 AD and originally known as Alpreada, stood out for its exceptional qualities. The organisation highlighted how King Dinis later rebuilt the village castle with Gothic features and commissioned medieval-style buildings to defend his kingdom.
Today, visitors are drawn to its remarkable archaeological site, the Roman Baths of Quinta do Ervedal. The village itself is a picturesque cluster of stone buildings nestled in the Beira Baixa Region, offering stunning views of the Gardunha mountains from its hilltop castle.
Pioneering Sustainability and Visitor Experience
Beyond its historical allure, Castelo Novo has been praised for groundbreaking green initiatives. It holds the distinction of being Portugal's first completely carbon-neutral location. To support this commitment, the village provides five electric vehicles to transport visitors from nearby train stations, seamlessly blending ancient charm with modern eco-consciousness.
Travellers who have discovered this spot often describe it as a 'secret kingdom'. One impressed visitor remarked on its "terrific visitor centre," while another celebrated the superb panoramic views from the castle, even on a grey day.
What to See and How to Get There
Beyond the castle and Roman baths, a trip to Castelo Novo offers a deep dive into traditional Portuguese life. Tourists can:
- Learn about ancient grape-treading methods used by former residents.
- Admire the historic manor houses dotted throughout the settlement.
- Walk the Miller's Way to see the iconic windmills that were once vital to village life.
Reaching this hidden gem is straightforward. The journey from Lisbon takes approximately three-and-a-half hours by train or two-and-a-half hours by car. It is also conveniently located for a day trip from the beautiful riverside city of Coimbra, with a drive of just under two hours.
With its unique combination of eight centuries of history, UNESCO-level recognition, and pioneering environmental credentials, Castelo Novo presents a compelling and sustainable alternative for travellers seeking an authentic Portuguese experience beyond the well-trodden city breaks.
