Discover Aldeia Das Dez

Aldeia das Dez lies on the northern slope of Colcurinho in the Serra do Açor at an altitude of around 500 m and overlooks the Rio Alvôco. The village combines a striking mountain setting with historic buildings, signposted trails and a local culinary tradition. Those planning a trip with nature experiences and cultural discoveries will find several different focal points here for planning their days.

Hiking between Colcurinho and Alvôco

For active days, the Subida Épica is one clearly designated option. It begins at the Ponte das Três Entradas and ends beside the chapel on the summit of Colcurinho. The PR1 OHP – Caminho do Xisto Aldeia das Dez – Pelas Várzeas do Alvoco begins and ends at Largo Alfredo Duarte in Aldeia das Dez. The PR3 OHP – Caminho do Xisto da Aldeia das Dez – Nos Passos do Ermitão also begins at Largo Alfredo Duarte. The different starting points and trail names help you organise your excursions according to the desired landscape and village setting.

Information boards about Aldeia das Dez stand at the Casa do S; information about the PR1, PR2 and PR3 OHP trails can be found at Largo Alfredo Duarte. Another special feature is the Ponte das Três Entradas: it is considered unique in Portugal because of its three entrances. The Rio Alvôco is considered the river of Aldeia das Dez and rises in the Serra da Estrela.

Churches, architecture and historical traces

Even away from the trails, Aldeia das Dez offers specific destinations for a cultural tour. The Santuário de Nossa Senhora das Preces is located in the village of Vale de Maceira in the Freguesia Aldeia das Dez. The sanctuary comprises a Baroque church and twelve devotional chapels with sculptural groups depicting scenes from the life of Christ. In the village itself, the Igreja Matriz de Aldeia das Dez dates from the 18th century.

The Casa do S, also known as Casa da Voluta, is an example of 17th-century vernacular architecture. The two-storey building consists of irregular masonry. Another historical trace lies 3 km from the village: a section of the Roman road connecting Aldeia das Dez with Avô is located at Caminho das Tapadas and in the surrounding area. The villagescape is complemented by the Fonte do Povo, built in 1892. Its tiles bear poems by Dr. Vasco Campos. Aldeia das Dez also has four fountains.

Local character and trip planning

The Aldeia das Dez settlement, designated an Aldeia do Xisto village, is built predominantly from granite. The regional culinary tradition includes the traditional sweets Coscoréis and Cavacas prepared in the local style. Medronho from the Serra do Açor is used for compote, cakes, Aguardente, liqueur and vinegar. These details also make the village interesting for travellers who would like to discover regional specialities between hikes and sightseeing.

When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home, you can consider whether Aldeia das Dez fits your desired mix of travel experiences: the designated trails favour planning with physical activity, while churches, chapels, fountains and historic buildings provide distinct cultural focal points. For access from the north, east and west, use the EN 230 as well as the junctions at Venda de Galizes and Ponte das Três Entradas. The connection towards Vila Cova do Alva and Arganil runs via the EN 342, while the route towards Pomares follows the EN 513.

The local festival tradition also provides special points of reference throughout the year. The Festa de Nossa Senhora das Preces is associated with July, and the Festa da Castanha with October. Further destinations in this selection: Lajeosa, Armazéns, Cerdeira, Piódão, Vila Pouca Da Beira, Coja, Coito and Caldas Da Felgueira.

For the broader travel overview: Coimbra.