2025-02-06
Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Aldeia das Dez, one of the five schist villages in the Serra do Açor (the other four are Benfeita, Fajão, Sobral de São Miguel and Vila Cova de Alva).
Aldeia das Dez is a small village located in the Serra do Açor, in the municipality of Pampilhosa da Serra, in central Portugal.
It is located in the heart of nature and is one of the most emblematic destinations of the Schist Villages. This is because its mountainous location offers breathtaking views and a peaceful environment, ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
Maybe that’s why they call it the belvedere village!
The village has a traditional architectural heritage, with its well-preserved schist houses, and maintains a strong link with old rural traditions.
In addition, Aldeia das Dez is also known for its landscapes and hiking trails, such as the Grande Rota do Zêzere route, which crosses the Serra do Açor and is close to several natural attractions, such as the Zêzere River and its dam.
What to do and visit in Aldeia das Dez (Schist Village)
As usual in the Schist Villages, Aldeia das Dez is a small place, but with a unique charm.
The schist houses have been restored with great care, maintaining their authenticity, and although there aren’t many of them, they are well worth a visit.
You can visit the Quinhentista House, the Pina Ferraz Manor House and various fountains, such as Fonte do Povo and Fonte do Marmeleiro.
The Mother Church and the Church of Santa Maria Madalena are also worth a visit. Don’t miss the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Dores, the Cruzeiro and the Alminha.
The village is rich in history and heritage. The Xisto Trail allows you to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Also, don’t forget to explore the viewpoints, such as Miradouro da Mimosa and Miradouro do Largo Alfredo Duarte, which offer stunning views.
What to expect in Aldeia das Dez
In Aldeia das Dez, visitors can count on some essential services.
There are two restaurants, Restaurante João Brandão and Plano 5 Tapas Bar, ideal for sampling the local cuisine. For everyday shopping, you’ll find the mini-market and Café-Minimercado Primavera.
This set of facilities makes Aldeia das Dez a convenient choice for a relaxing visit or stay.
Accommodation in the Schist Villages
The Schist Villages are interconnected and are the ideal destination for those who like tranquillity and contact with nature.
And as far as accommodation is concerned, you can choose from Hotel Rural Quinta da Geia, Casa dos Teares Alojamento, Casa do Secolinho Alojamento or Quinta Relva do Trigo, depending on your preference.
Therefore, I believe that the best solution is to stay in one of the Schist Villages in Serra da Lousã, Serra do Açor, Zêzere and Tejo-Ocreza.
Walking Trails in Aldeia das Dez
There are three hiking trails in Aldeia das Dez, the characteristics of which are shown below:
PR1 – Pelas Várzeas do Alvôco
PR1 – Pelas Várzeas do Alvôco is a circular route starting and finishing at Alfredo Duarte square. It is 20 kilometers long and will take you around 6 hours.
PR2 – Imperial Route
The PR2 Rota Imperial is a circular route starting and finishing at Alfredo Duarte Square. It is 12 kilometers long and will take you around 3 and a half hours to complete, but it is an easy walking route.
PR3 – Nos Passos do Ermitão
PR3 – Nos Passos do Ermitão is a circular trail starting and finishing at Alfredo Duarte square. It is 10 kilometers long and will take you around 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete, although it is considered to be an easy trail.
How to get to Aldeia das Dez?
To reach Aldeia das Dez from Porto, take the A1 heading south.
Then, continue on the A25 towards Viseu and Guarda, and take the exit for N2 towards Oliveira do Hospital.
From Oliveira do Hospital, follow the signs to Aldeia das Dez, located in the Serra do Açor region.
If coming from Lisbon, take the A1 north and after about 140 km, exit onto N17 towards Coimbra.
Continue on N17 until you reach the junction with N2, which will take you to Oliveira do Hospital.
From there, follow the signs to Aldeia das Dez, also in the Serra do Açor region.
👉 Check out how much it costs to rent a car in Portugal.
Day trip from Lisbon
Day trip from Porto
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