The mystique of Lousã Schist Villages is unique and special. Almost half of the 27 Schist Villages are located in Lousã mountain range. Often hidden in the middle of the vast vegetation, these small schist and quartzite villages invite you to stay and know a little bit more. Let's discover them?  

The 5 Lousã Schist Villages that you can't miss 

The green that runs through Lousã Mountain, combined with the fog that sometimes hangs in the air, gives it a magical atmosphere. Tourists are always coming and there are plenty of reasons to extend your stay in the Lousã Schist Villages. From the activities and trails, surrounded by pure nature, to the stays or experiences in the Schist Villages, here you'll find the perfect balance between silence and the hustle and bustle of those who seek to know it all.  

Together, we'll explore 5 out of the 12 Lousã Schist Villages. Find out what to do, where to stay and what to eat. Don't waste any more time, go for the adventure.  

Starting with the village of Casal Novo, but speaking in general, these villages are not just for seeing, the visit can be done quickly. To experience the village properly it is necessary to stop and observe. After all, beauty is in the smallest details. Only with attention will you be able to capture these wonderful villages.  

Explore up close the surrounding nature through the Lousã Schist Path - Mills Route. Pay attention to the animal species that populate the mountain. On a visit to the Lousã Schist Villages, staying overnight is mandatory. Enjoy the rustic and cozy atmosphere of the schist houses and, around a salamander, get to know the village of Casal Novo through the eyes of those who live there.  

2. Chiqueiro

  

Busier than the other villages, but not restless. Here, where the green vegetation is king, is the main reason for the recent visibility and charisma of the Lousã Schist Villages.  

In Talasnal, don't just observe what's there, enjoy the countless leisure and active sports possibilities, but always with your eyes on nature. Talaniscos and Retalhinhos are the names of the conventional sweets that, besides other things, have the flavor of the chestnut that characterizes these villages. We don't know if it's the details of the restored schist houses or the way it leaves our taste buds sharpened, but here, there is something special. Visit and draw your own conclusions. 

As you enter the village of Cerdeira the xisto tone of the houses overlaps the green that surrounds them. The access road to the village, on a slate floor, invites you to enter and never leave. A journey through the most beautiful corners of the village, which leads us to a fountain in the middle of dense vegetation. The route of the Schist Villages Classic has landscapes that involve you at every moment. The constant ups and downs make this a route not recommended for beginners in cycling. If you prefer to keep the quietness of the village, a visit to the Atelier da Cerdeira is also a good option.  

To finish, let them show you the flavor of the village through a delicious meal, inspired by the flavors of the region. 

Knowing that each schist house is unique makes you want to enter each one. For those who go up or down the mountains, Candal is a cozy haven. Among steep streets and alleys, the arrival at the viewpoint is breathless, but the beautiful view over the valley is rewarding. On the way back, slow down at the Aldeias de Xisto store and take a souvenir for later. Along the right bank of the Ribeira de Candal you will find hydraulic mills built in the 1920's, if you go with the little ones, it is a must see. Here, each thing comes at its own time, so if there is one thing you must try, it is the seasonal fruits. 

Due to its privileged accessibility by the National Road, it is common for families and friends to gather there in search of quality time. 

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