The best walks and hikes around Lajes

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The Devil's Horns are a prominent granite rock formation with two horn-like points, located in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, near Lapa dos Dinheiros and Senhora do Desterro (not in Gerês, but in Seia, Portugal). They are the highlight of a famous circular hiking trail that follows a water channel and the Caniça stream, offering stunning landscapes, lagoons, and waterfalls. 👍🥾

The Lapa dos Dinheiros river beach is in perfect harmony with nature. Located in the parish of Lapa dos Dinheiros, on the Caniça River, a right-bank tributary of the Alva River, this bathing area is nestled in a mountainous landscape dominated by the Lapa Souto (south of Lapa) and imposing granite outcrops. With clear water, very appealing for swimming, the beach boasts the award for accessible beach and has lifeguards and a bar available to visitors. The rugged terrain of the valley causes the river to form a succession of small waterfalls nearby. The Lapa Souto, in addition to its valuable collection of centuries-old chestnut trees, is also home to a high level of biodiversity. From the bridge, a pedestrian path leads to the Moura Hole and a viewpoint over the Caniça Waterfalls. The Buraco da Moura is a natural cave system created by the sliding and accumulation of large granite blocks, which formed a complex system of rooms and galleries. How to get there? Once in Seia, follow the EN231 to S. Romão. From there, continue uphill for about 5 km, toward Loriga/Lapa, until you find the sign for Lapa dos Dinheiros on the left. Once inside the town, simply follow the beach signs. Coordinates: 40º 23′ 07.0″ N / 7º 41′ 50.1″ W

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Desterro stands on the banks of the Alva River as an authentic path of faith, marked by ten chapels built over more than two centuries, between 1650 and 1892. Near the village, nature itself left its masterpiece: a curious rock, sculpted by time, that resembles the head of an old woman watching over the mountains.

Caution: collapsed path (also aqueduct) 2.5 km from the start. Possible but dangerous passage.

Gouveia is a picturesque Portuguese town and municipality located in the district of Guarda, on the northern edge of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. With an elevated position that provides it with a mountain climate and picturesque views, Gouveia is considered one of the "gateways" to the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal. The town stands out for its rich historical and architectural heritage, with a charming old town characterized by narrow cobbled streets, traditional houses and monuments such as the Mother Church of São Pedro and the Paços do Concelho (Town Hall). Gouveia is also renowned for the production of the famous Queijo Serra da Estrela, a DOP sheep's cheese, and for its tradition of the Cão da Serra da Estrela dog breed. Its proximity to the Natural Park makes it an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the Serra.

The enigmatic Devil's Horns rise from the granite, defying the sky with their six-metre height. Sculpted by erosion over the centuries, they earned this bold name thanks to their sharp and imposing profile. But the charm doesn't end there: around this unique formation, there are small crystal-clear lagoons and serene waterfalls, creating a true natural refuge that seems to have come straight out of a fantasy story.

Nestled on the banks of the Caniça river, a tributary of the Alva river, this beach area is a haven in the middle of a mountainous landscape, where ancient chestnut trees and granite blocks shape the scenery. The crystal-clear, inviting water is perfect for a refreshing dip. The beach, which has been awarded the title of accessible, has lifeguards and a bar, making the experience even more enjoyable.