Crowd-free destinations are getting harder to find. Millions of tourists head to Spain and Portugal each year, and what’s meant to be a relaxing holiday can sometimes feel like a battle through packed streets and busy beaches. But not everywhere is overrun. One quiet town in central Portugal still offers peace, adventure and great value for money.
Jay Wirsig who is an outdoor travel expert and the CEO of KayaArm, told the Express: “In the woods of central Portugal, Lousã is a sleepy hill town that most tourists miss. The locals spent years carving a maze of single‑track through the trees, so walkers, runners and enduro bikers have more than one hundred kilometres to play on.”
He added: “You hop in the back of a pickup that shuttles riders to the top for about £25 a day.
“Clean guesthouses cost roughly £34, breakfast thrown in. The same crew that builds the trails also handles rescues, and your phone keeps signal even in the gullies, so help is close if you need it.”
Lousã is in the Serra da Lousã mountains, around 16 miles from Coimbra.
According to Be Portugal, the mountain range is famous for its natural beauty, walking trails and selection of quiet Schist Villages like Talasnal and Cerdeira.
Lousã also has a centuries-old castle, Castelo da Lousã, which sits high above the valley and offers great views.
There’s also a biological park nearby where you can see rare animals like lynxes, mouflons and wild boars.
One of the best spots in summer is the river beach of Senhora de Piedade.
Hidden in a gorge, it’s a great place for a swim, with clear water and peaceful surroundings.
The town’s guesthouses, cafes and quiet streets make it ideal for a relaxing break.
You can hike, cycle or just explore the area on foot. There are also several other river beaches nearby, along with opportunities for camping and canoeing.
Jay says Lousã is perfect for travellers looking to get away from it all, especially those who enjoy walking, nature and peaceful villages.