Mata Nacional do Buçaco

Top choice in The Beiras


Sprawling out from the Palacio do Buçaco, this aromatic forest is littered with crumbling chapels, fountains, ponds and exotic trees. There is a network of well-signposted trails leading to features such as the lush Vale dos Fetos (Valley of the Ferns) and the Fonte Fria, a monumental stone staircase near a picturesque pond. Another lovely route is the Via Sacra, which passes a series of chapels as it wends its way up to the Cruz Alta, a hilltop cross offering wonderful views.

From Luso, you can access the forest on foot – it's a steep uphill walk from the southern end of Avenida Emídio Navarro – or by car through the Portas das Ameias some 900m from the centre.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The Beiras attractions

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