Attractions and Places To See around Ventosa - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ventosa are concentrated within the Serra de Montejunto mountain range. This region features a blend of historical sites, religious architecture, and outdoor facilities. Ventosa provides opportunities to explore ancient ruins, engage in outdoor recreation, and experience the local landscape. The area is defined by its mountainous terrain and historical significance.
Best attractions and places to see around Ventosa
- The most popular attractions is Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows (Ruins), a…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows (Ruins)
Highlight • Religious Site
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Montejunto Rural Campsite
Highlight • Rest Area
montejunto.pt/parque-de-campismo-rural-da-serra-de-montejunto
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Picnic Area of Serra de Montejunto
Highlight • Rest Area
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Ponte da Ermida
Highlight • Bridge
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Pragança Village
Highlight • Settlement
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At this location at the top of the Serra de Montejunto, also known as "Torre" due to the various antennas that were installed there, is the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows, which may have been built in the 13th century and remodelled and expanded during the 16th century and later. Inside, the altars covered with 17th century tiles and the altarpiece of the main altar, from the 18th century, stand out. Next to the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows, are the ruins of what is considered to be the first Dominican Convent in Portugal, built in the 12th century and abandoned after the extinction of the religious orders, and is currently in ruins. Also nearby are the ruins of the Royal Ice Factory, classified as a National Monument. Here, in the 18th century, the Dominican monks took advantage of the climatic and geological conditions and opened large tanks connected by narrow passages, one part for the production of ice and the other for its preparation, storage and conservation. The ice was later transported to Lisbon, to supply the court and the café at Terreiro do Paço, later known as Martinho da Arcada (Fernando Pessoa's Café)
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The origins of the Ermida Bridge possibly date back to the end of the 15th century. A Royal Road passed through here, which was intended to connect the river port of Vila Nova da Rainha and Caldas da Rainha. It was the route of the royal and court routes since D. João II, and was also frequently used by D. João V and D. Carlos. All that remains of this 15th century Royal Road is the emblematic Ermida Bridge, a work of art structured and built in dressed stone and its sumptuous Romanesque arch, or round arch. Due to its total lack of conservation and because it has to support loads (heavy agricultural machinery) for which it was not designed, it is currently at risk of collapse, and its passage is even closed.
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It is surrounded by beautiful and abundant trees and is a bridge with a Romanesque arch. There are several theories regarding its construction; some argue that it was built during the reign of D. João II, in order to facilitate the King's movement when he went to meet Queen D. Leonor for a swim in Caldas, while others claim that it was built in the 19th century due to a technical issue, namely its width. Interestingly, this bridge supports two enormous pine trees on the upper part of the road.
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The Nossa Senhora das Neves Chapel, located at the top of the Serra de Montejunto, has been a place of pilgrimage since the medieval period, prior to the construction of the first Dominican monastery in the 13th century.
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The Serra de Montejunto picnic area is next to the Interpretation center and a little further from the campsite. Nearby there is a small bar and toilets.
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The Serra do Montejunto Rural Camping Park is located close to the Environmental Interpretation Center and the Real Fábrica do Gelo. With capacity for 90 people, 24 tents and 6 motorhomes, it has sanitary facilities separated by sex, a communal barbecue area and designated areas for washing dishes and drying clothes.
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Located in the chestnut woods, it connects the Real Fábrica do Gelo complex and the Environmental Interpretation Centre. The Park has eight tables, with an average capacity of six to eight people per table. As support structures for its use, it has a small bar, toilets and a small playground.
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Located in the heart of the Montejunto mountain range, the Montejunto Rural Camping Park has ample shade and capacity for 90 people. Free to use, it has a bar, a tourist reception center and an Environmental Interpretation Centre. https://montejunto.pt/parque-de-campismo-rural-da-serra-de-montejunto/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and religious sites can I explore around Ventosa?
The region offers several significant historical and religious sites. You can visit the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows (Ruins), which includes the remains of Portugal's first Dominican Convent dating back to the 12th century. Nearby, you'll also find the 13th-century Chapel of Saint John the Baptist. Another historical point of interest is Ponte da Ermida, a 15th-century bridge that was part of a Royal Road.
Are there family-friendly facilities or activities near Ventosa?
Yes, the area provides family-friendly facilities. The Picnic Area of Serra de Montejunto is situated within chestnut woods and features eight tables, a small bar, toilets, and a playground, making it ideal for families. Additionally, the Montejunto Rural Campsite offers ample shade, sanitary facilities, and a communal barbecue area, suitable for family stays.
What outdoor activities can I do near the attractions in Ventosa?
The Serra de Montejunto area around Ventosa is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, running, and mountain biking. For cycling, explore routes like the 'Quinta da Abrigada – View of Serra de Montejunto loop'. Running enthusiasts can try the 'Serra de Montejunto Windmills Trail' or the 'Quinta da Serra Trail'. Mountain bikers have options such as the 'Montejunto Swing – Chapel of Saint George loop'. You can find more details and routes on the respective guides for Cycling around Ventosa, Running Trails around Ventosa, and MTB Trails around Ventosa.
Where can I find a place to stay or camp in the area?
The Montejunto Rural Campsite is a great option. It's located in the heart of the Montejunto mountain range, offering ample shade and capacity for 90 people. It's free to use and provides sanitary facilities, a communal barbecue area, and is close to the Environmental Interpretation Centre.
Are there any trails or paths for walking near the historical sites?
Yes, near the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows (Ruins), you'll find a trail called "Calçada dos Frades." This cobbled path, believed to be from the 18th century, runs along the slope and was historically used to access the Convent and the Real Fábrica do Gelo.
What is the best time to visit Ventosa for outdoor activities?
The Serra de Montejunto region generally offers pleasant conditions for outdoor activities during spring and autumn, when temperatures are milder. Summer can be warm, while winter might bring cooler, wetter weather, especially at higher elevations. Always check the local weather forecast before planning your trip.
What kind of natural features define the Ventosa area?
Ventosa is primarily defined by its mountainous terrain, being situated within the Serra de Montejunto mountain range. This provides a landscape of hills, forests (including chestnut woods near the picnic area), and elevated viewpoints. The area's natural conditions were historically significant, even leading to the establishment of the Royal Ice Factory.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ventosa?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The ruins of the Dominican Convent at the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows are considered a grandiose monument despite their state. The facilities like the Picnic Area of Serra de Montejunto are valued for their peaceful setting within chestnut woods, offering a relaxing experience for families and groups.
Is there parking available at the main attractions?
While specific parking details for each highlight are not always listed, areas like the Picnic Area of Serra de Montejunto and the Montejunto Rural Campsite are designed to accommodate visitors, suggesting parking facilities are available nearby. For the more remote historical sites, parking might be less formal, often along access roads.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots worth visiting?
Beyond the main highlights, the ruins of the Royal Ice Factory, located near the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows, offer a unique glimpse into 18th-century ice production. This site, classified as a National Monument, showcases how Dominican monks utilized the climate and geology to create and store ice for Lisbon.
What should I wear for hiking or outdoor activities in the Serra de Montejunto?
Given the mountainous terrain and potential for varied weather, it's advisable to wear comfortable, layered clothing suitable for hiking. Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended, especially if you plan to explore trails like the "Calçada dos Frades" or any of the running and MTB routes. Bringing water, sun protection, and a light jacket is always a good idea.
How long should I plan for a visit to the attractions around Ventosa?
To fully appreciate the historical sites and enjoy the natural surroundings, a full day is recommended. You could spend a few hours exploring the ruins of the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows and the nearby Royal Ice Factory, followed by a picnic at the Picnic Area of Serra de Montejunto. If you plan to engage in longer outdoor activities like cycling or running, you might consider extending your visit or focusing on specific areas.
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