In the garden of the Nelas Municipal Library – António Lobo Antunes, the António Lobo Antunes Literary Trail begins and ends. In between are 14 stops. Readings from the author’s works connect with Nelas’s architectural heritage and local stories; the route also draws on the writer’s memories of Nelas in the mid-20th century.
Literature, architecture and local history
The Paços do Concelho, now Nelas Town Hall, tell another facet of the town’s history: the building was originally a family home belonging to the Novais family. It was probably built in the early 19th century. The Estátua do Escanção adds another distinctive touch. It is considered the world’s first monument to an escanção, or sommelier. Inaugurated in 1966, the statue was inspired by the figure of escanção Fernando Ferramentas.
The town trail and the Circuito Pedestre das Caldas da Felgueira offer contrasting discoveries: one brings together literature, architectural history and local stories; the other follows rural paths through the countryside around the thermal spa and along the banks of the Mondego.
Garden terraces and granite in Santar
Santar is defined by its continuous garden terraces. These include the Casa dos Condes de Santar e Magalhães, the Casa da Magnólia, the Jardim da Igreja da Misericórdia, the Jardim dos Linhares, the Casa Ibérico Nogueira and the Casa das Fidalgas. Granite houses line the streets; ancient roots and stately design shape the townscape. In Santar, garden spaces, houses and a historically shaped townscape come together.
Dão wine, festivals and cuisine
Nelas lies at the heart of the Dão wine region and is part of the Rota dos Vinhos do Dão. The Feira do Vinho do Dão is held annually by the Câmara Municipal de Nelas, has been running for more than a quarter of a century and welcomes thousands of visitors. The programme includes wine tastings, live cooking demonstrations for adults and children, and regional products such as Serra cheese, bread, honey and cured meats. Dates vary from one edition to the next; check the event dates if you are planning your trip around it.
The Carnival of Nelas has a different festive character: costumes and floats created by the Bairro da Igreja and Cimo do Povo associations parade through the streets. Hundreds of revellers take part, accompanied by music and thousands of visitors; the programme may vary from one edition to the next. Traditional cuisine also gives the region its own culinary character. Dishes include Coelho à Mirra, Arroz de Carqueja, Bacalhau, Pato à Moda da Beira, boiled pork ribs with beans and leafy greens, Cabrito and Sopa de Peixe do Rio.
Landscape and thermal history
The municipality of Nelas lies on the Beirão Plateau between the Serra da Estrela and the Serra do Caramulo. The Mondego and Dão run parallel, forming deep valleys towards which the terrain slopes increasingly. The municipality of Nelas lies on the right bank of the Mondego and the left bank of the Dão. This landscape offers a different focus from the literary trail: here, the emphasis is on river courses, valleys and rural paths.
The mineral waters of the Termas das Caldas da Felgueira have been used since the 19th century to treat respiratory, musculoskeletal and skin conditions. You should consult a medical professional to determine whether this kind of treatment is suitable for you. The Circuito Pedestre das Caldas da Felgueira explores the countryside around the thermal spa and the banks of the Mondego along rural paths, without requiring a particular walking time or distance.
Nelas can be reached via the A25 and IP3 highways and the national road network. Nelas railway station is also on the international Beira Alta railway line. If you plan to travel by train, check the latest service information before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Nelas, Canas De Senhorim, Vila Ruiva, Aguieira, Lapa do Lobo, Santar, Mortágua, Sátão.
For the broader travel overview: Viseu.
