Located near the "Penada Geres" national park, 1.5 hours by car from Porto, Sistelo is one the best hidden gems in Europe. This village of 300 inhabitants, considered one of the 7 wonders of Portugal is also called "The little Portuguese Tibet".
Like in the Douro Valley, the green terraces of Sistelo have been shaped by human hands: the flat parts are used for cultivation, a.o. corn. The harvested grains are stored in "Espigueiros" granaries, raised from the ground so that rodents can’t eat the precious harvest. The corn is then ground into flour thanks in the mills that run along the river.
During your stay in Sistelo, don’t miss the "Cha da Armada" viewpoint which offers the best views of Sistelo. Walk up the M1289 to Padrao and Porta Cova and enjoy exceptional views of the village of Sistelo.
If you like hiking in nature, Sistelo is the destination for you. "Brandas de Sistelo" is a small 11km trail that starts in the village and takes you to the most beautiful natural places of this incredible region. History buffs can visit Sistelo Castle. This cultural heritage and its exceptional landscapes are now protected since Sistelo has been classified among the national monuments and cultural landscapes of Portugal.
