The Rota Romana connects Lousal with Ansião in a concrete way: it passes through Tarouca and Pinheiro on its way to Lousal, which is considered close to Ansião. It starts at Parque Verde do Nabão in Ansião, about 500 metres from the source of the Rio Nabão. This gives you two clearly named locations to consider when planning your trip: Lousal along the route and Ansião as a starting point for trails, heritage and cycling.
The Rota Romana and its waypoints
The Rota Romana begins at Parque Verde do Nabão, at a former junction of the IC8 near Constantina. The Rota dos Pinhais also starts in the park, about 500 metres from the source of the Rio Nabão. Both routes therefore share the same stated starting point. One section of the Rota Romana follows the Caminho Português para Santiago de Compostela; the route then leads to Sarzedela, where you can visit the Chapel of S. João.
Other named waypoints on the Rota Romana include Lagoa de Soucide and a traditional well. The route then passes through Tarouca and Pinheiro on its way to Lousal. For orientation, it is worth viewing the starting area in Ansião and Lousal as distinct locations along the route. This makes it clear where the route begins and where the described section leads.
Heritage in Ansião
The Igreja Matriz de Ansião dates from the late 16th century; the year 1593 is inscribed on the lintel of the main portal. The Pelourinho de Ansião was erected in 1686. It commemorates the donation of the town to D. Luís de Menezes, the 3rd Count of Ericeira and General of Artillery, in reward for his services at the Battle of Ameixial during the Portuguese Restoration War. The two structures offer different historical points of interest: the church is notable for its construction period and date, while the Pelourinho is notable for the reason it was erected.
Ponte da Cal is another distinct landmark in Ansião. Two round stone arches of the bridge remain today; the other arches appear to have been bricked up. It stands at the northern entrance to Ansião, in an area that remains predominantly rural along the Rio Nabão, about 600 metres from its source. Its surviving arches and riverside location add an architectural detail to the historical themes of the church and the Pelourinho.
Cycling along the Rio Nabão
Three kilometres of cycle paths run along the riverbank in Parque Verde do Nabão. P11 Verde – Ansião follows gentle trails along the Rio Nabão and is considered a suitable circular route for first-time mountain bikers. This highlights different cycling options in Ansião: riverside cycle paths in the park and a mountain-bike circuit described as suitable for beginners. Check current trail conditions and signage before setting out.
Choose accommodation based on your travel focus
Lousal is mentioned along the Rota Romana; the route’s starting point, as well as the landmarks and cycle paths described here, are in Ansião. So consider whether Lousal is your destination or whether the routes and cultural attractions in Ansião are the main focus of your trip.
Discover more destinations: Coimbrão, Caldas Da Rainha, Monte Real, Boa Vista, Ouzenda, Vestiaria, Pataias, Azoia
For the full travel overview: Leiria.
