Vilar: Reservoir, Water and Adventure

Vilar combines an impressive waterscape with a wide range of opportunities for active and varied days on holiday. The construction of the Barragem de Vilar created a large reservoir from the waters dammed up by the Rio Távora. Anyone planning a trip focused on water-based experiences, adventure activities and insights into the history of the area will find a variety of ways to plan their days here.

Water-based experiences at the Barragem de Vilar

During the summer months, the calm waters of the Barragem de Vilar are at the heart of the activities offered by GaivotAventura. The provider organises activities on the reservoir every year and offers pedal-boat and canoe trips. GaivotAventura also provides access to a diving platform. This makes it possible to plan your stay in very different ways: you can arrange a peaceful trip on the water or focus on a more active pursuit. The specific water-based activities also provide clear guidance when you are looking for a holiday apartment or holiday house in Vilar and want to choose the location of your accommodation based on your preferred holiday itinerary.

Adventure programme and flexible day planning

The Parque Aventura Crónicas da Terra offers another world of experiences. Its programme includes canoeing, a bridge course, abseiling, climbing, a zip line, mountain biking, paintball, rafting, orienteering, shooting, group games and hiking trails. The wide range allows you to switch between water activities, exercise and various outdoor pursuits when planning your trip, without limiting your holiday to just one activity. The park is located on the Albufeira of the Barragem do Vilar in the area of Moimenta da Beira.

There is also a campsite and caravan park near the bathing area, with swimming pools for adults and children, a multi-purpose sports court, a volleyball court and a bungalow. This area is therefore another specific point of reference for travel groups with different interests: while some may prefer water activities or sport, others can take a more relaxed approach to their stay. The Rota do Távora is certified by the Federação de Campismo e Montanhismo de Portugal and adds a named route to the existing options.

History and local traditions

Vilar is shaped by more than just its reservoir. The former Ponte de Fonte Arcada connected Fonte Arcada with Vilar before it was flooded in 1965 by the waters impounded by the Barragem do Vilar. This history shows how significantly the creation of the reservoir changed the landscape and former connections.

The celebrations in honour of the patron saint São Bartolomeu are also part of the cultural character of the area. According to the celebrations documented in 2017, a festive mass and a procession took place on 24 August. The procession also documented for 2017 featured around 25 biblical figures being carried through the parish's main streets. This information refers to that documented year and should not be understood as a statement about a current or annually recurring programme.

Vilar as a starting point for your accommodation search

When looking for a holiday apartment in Vilar, it is worth first deciding on your preferred mix of water, adventure and cultural impressions. If you would like to include canoes, pedal boats or GaivotAventura's activities, you can make the reservoir the thematic focus of your trip. Those seeking more variety can add the programme at Parque Aventura Crónicas da Terra. The history of the Ponte de Fonte Arcada and the celebrations of São Bartolomeu offer a different emphasis, making the stay interesting for travellers who would like to discover regional traditions alongside active days.

For further travel inspiration, you can also view Caria, Paradinha, Leomil, Alvite and Moimenta Da Beira.

To the higher-level travel overview: Moimenta Da Beira.