Gralheira between Highlands and Tradition

Gralheira lies at an altitude of about 1,100 metres in the Serra do Montemuro, combining highland scenery with culture and active pursuits. Alongside the Aldeia da Gralheira, the Penedo da Saúde consists of three granite blocks—a striking landmark in the landscape. Gralheira is also known as the “Princesa da Serra” (“Princess of the Serra”). When choosing your holiday apartment, it may help to first decide what you want to focus on during your trip: the Christmas programme, regional culture or mountain excursions.

Christmas Programme and Regional Products

The Aldeia do Pai Natal takes place annually in Gralheira during the Christmas season. The themed houses include the Casa do Pai Natal, the Casa dos Duendes, the Casa do Café, the Correio do Pai Natal, the Banco do Pai Natal, the Casinha de Chocolate, the Casa do Pão and the Oficina dos Brinquedos. The programme also features theatre, music, traditional dances, children’s shows, concerts, a Christmas parade and street entertainment. Food, crafts, snow tubing, bicycles and inflatable attractions round out the offering; individual activities may vary from one edition to another.

The “Fumeiro na Serra” fair is also held in Gralheira and combines a tasting of smoked products with local goods. One edition was announced for 21 and 22 March. If you plan to time your trip around the fair, check the dates in advance.

Hiking and Mountain Biking Routes

The 15.5-kilometre PR7 Caminho do Colmo circular hiking trail passes by the Aldeia da Gralheira; Gralheira is one of the trail’s points of interest. For mountain biking, both the Centro de BTT Montemuro 41 circular route and the challenging Route 47 start and finish at the Centro de BTT in Gralheira. Route 47 reaches the Talefe at an altitude of 1,381 metres and passes by the Portas de Montemuro. Check seasonal trail conditions locally.

Route 48 runs via the Gralheira access point of the Montemuro mountain biking centre and explores the Serra do Montemuro’s largest high plateau area. Another perspective is offered by the Grande Rota das Montanhas Mágicas: its section in Cinfães runs from Escamarão on the Douro to the traditional village of Gralheira in the Serra do Montemuro’s summit area. This gives you a choice of circular routes and a longer route section, each with a different described course.

Local Crafts and History

The Centro Interpretativo da Gralheira is a museum and a venue for activities related to growing maize, Fumeiro, breadmaking, clothing and local crafts. These include activities connected with maize growing, including the Segada; guided group tours are also available. The Serranitas workshop is associated with local crafts, including Burel items. The Senhor da Boa Morte Chapel was founded in 1788.

These themes offer different ways to shape your stay: the Christmas event is tied to the festive season, while routes and culture offer other reasons to discover Gralheira. So choose your holiday apartment based on the experiences and dates that matter for your trip.

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