Coa Valley Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Museum • National park

Facts and practical information

The Coa Valley, located in the Guarda region of Portugal, is a stunning destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This picturesque valley is home to the Coa Valley Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its collection of prehistoric rock art. Visitors can explore the park's open-air museum, where they can admire the ancient rock carvings that date back thousands of years.

In addition to its historical significance, the Coa Valley is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The region offers a variety of hiking trails that wind through the valley's rugged landscapes, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and river. Travelers can also partake in activities such as birdwatching, kayaking, and mountain biking, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

For those interested in local culture and cuisine, the Coa Valley offers plenty of opportunities to experience authentic Portuguese traditions. Visitors can sample regional delicacies at local restaurants, explore charming villages, and even participate in traditional festivals and events that celebrate the area's rich heritage.

Local name: Sítios de arte rupestre do Vale do Coa Unesco: from 1998 to 2010Length: 10.56 miElevation: 856 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°0'48"N, 7°7'0"W

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GuardaPortugal

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Coa Valley Top Attractions

Coa Valley Attractions - What to See and Explore

Coa Valley offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Castle of Castelo Melhor, Algodres, Áreas Protegidas Privada da Faia Brava, Estação Ferroviária de Almendra. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Forts and castles
Castle of Castelo Melhor
The Castle of Castelo Melhor is a medieval castle located in the civil parish of Castelo Melhor, in the municipality of Vila Nova de Foz Côa, Portuguese Guarda. The castle is one of the best examples of secondary medieval fortresses, erected in one of the more peripheral zones of the peninsular kingdoms.
40°57'9"N • 7°3'17"W
Algodres
Algodres is a former civil parish in the municipality of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, district of Guarda, Portugal. In 2013, the parish merged into the new parish Algodres, Vale de Alfonsinho e Vilar de Amargo.
Park
Áreas Protegidas Privada da Faia Brava
The Protected areas of Portugal are classified under a legal protection statute that allows for the adequate protection and maintenance of biodiversity, while providing services for ecosystem that maintains the natural and geological patrimony.

Day trips

Coa Valley – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Coa Valley, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Mateus Palace (Vila Real), Guarda Cathedral (Guarda), Church of São Luís (Pinhel).

37 milesNW
18th-century palace with garden
Mateus Palace, Vila Real
The Mateus Palace is a palace located in the civil parish of Mateus, municipality of Vila Real, Portugal. The three primary buildings are the manor, the winery and the chapel. The winery buildings date from the 16th century and were modified in the 1800s.
34 milesS
Church, Gothic architecture
Guarda Cathedral, Guarda
The Cathedral of Guarda is a Catholic church located in the northeastern city of Guarda, Portugal. Its construction took from 1390 until the mid 16th century, combining Gothic and Manueline architectural styles.
17 milesS
Church
Church of São Luís, Pinhel
The Church of São Luís is a Latin Catholic Baroque church and former cathedral in the civil parish of Pinhel, in the municipality of the same name, Portuguese district of Guarda.
48 milesSW
Imposing cathedral with twin towers
Viseu Cathedral, Viseu
Viseu Cathedral is the Catholic bishopric seat of the city of Viseu, in Portugal. The church started being built in the 12th century and is the most important historical monument of the town.
23 milesSE
Forts and castles
Castle Fortress of Almeida
The Castle Fortress of Almeida, Portugal, stands as a monumental testament to the country's rich military history and architectural prowess. Constructed in the 12th century and refined over subsequent centuries, this fortification is an impressive example of a star...