Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 136 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain worth booking?
Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain is a 4-hour experience in Coimbra, Portugal, from $103 per person. It scores 86 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 136 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 86 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (136)
- Duration
- 4 hours
- From
- $103 per person
The Veado Verde / Green Deer challenges you to live an experience in the Lousa Mountain. Come with us and visit the beautiful and picturesque Schist Villages of Lousa Mountain. We will pass thru forests of pines, chestnut trees, oaks and beeches where we can find deer, wild boars, foxes and squirrels. It´s a wonderful and rewarding experience that includes offroad activities, hiking and visiting the shale villages. It's a 4 hour tour (or 8 hour tour) with Coimbra as the pickup point. Get ready, the beauty of this mountain will leave you amazed!
What you get
About this experience
The Veado Verde / Green Deer challenges you to live an experience in the Lousa Mountain. Come with us and visit the beautiful and picturesque Schist Villages of Lousa Mountain. We will pass thru forests of pines, chestnut trees, oaks and beeches where we can find deer, wild boars, foxes and squirrels. It´s a wonderful and rewarding experience that includes offroad activities, hiking and visiting the shale villages. It's a 4 hour tour (or 8 hour tour) with Coimbra as the pickup point. Get ready, the beauty of this mountain will leave you amazed!
What's included
Included
- One souvenir photo
- Binoculars
- Driver/guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
- Professional photographer guide
- Meals as per itinerary (L=lunch, D=dinner) are optional and paid separately on site.
- All activities
- Transport by private vehicle
Not included
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
What you'll see and do
Cerdeira is a magical place. At the entrance to the village, a small bridge leads us to a handful of houses peeping through the foliage. It seems like we are crossing the portal to a fantasy world. Everything appears perfect in this deeply romantic setting. The slate path points the way to a spring hidden among lush vegetation. Between steep slopes rent by watercourses tumbling down from higher up, Cerdeira nestles in the most bucolic of surroundings. This is a village that art and creativity have helped to refound. Indeed, at certain times of the year, the village becomes alive with events that combine art and botany.
30 minutes here
Benefiting from the ease of access provided by the National Highway, Candal is generally regarded as the most developed of the mountain villages and is one of the most visited. Its inhabitants are used to being joined by holiday and weekend visitors who flock here in search of pure air and good company.
30 minutes here
Aldeia do Talasnal
Here nature reigns. For a long time now, this is the Schist Village of the Lousã Mountain that has lent most visibility and charm because of the many details of the restoration of its houses. And also by the way the village seduces us through the mouth.
30 minutes here
Aldeia do Casal Novo
Passing along the unpaved road, the presence of Casal Novo almost escapes us. The village lies in a fold on the steeply sloping, north-facing hillside and the woodland surrounding the village hides its outline.
Pass by without stopping
Aldeia de Gondramaz
Gondramaz is a completely restored shale village with about 50 houses where there is a tourist resort and where we will have a coffee.
30 minutes here
Aldeias do Xisto
Cadaval Cimeiro and Cadaval Fundeiro are two abandoned shale villages that burned twice in the 1980s. There we will hike between the two.
30 minutes here
Aigra Velha is the highest altitude Schist Village (770 metres), not far from the summits of the Lousã Mountain, but easy to get to. It is a small place, but one with wide horizons. The landscape surrounding the village makes all the difference. Here everything is simple and done following the natural cycle of nature that is all around us. * - Only Full day tour.
30 minutes here
ith its simple plan of low schist buildings, Aigra Nova consists of three small streets that cross the village. Its spring and the mild climate favour agriculture and broad pastures. In this living village there are market gardens, livestock, donkeys and many activities that will surprise the visitor. * - Only Full day tour.
30 minutes here
This village is the perfect result of construction in a combination of schist and quartzite. A centuries-old chestnut guards the entrance to the village. * - Only Full day tour. The local topography dictated that the village developed along a promontory, making it seem that the houses are defying the laws of equilibrium and the force of gravity. The village of Pena takes full advantage of the crystal clear waters of the stream. Alongside it, the Penedos de Góis offer adventure for the daring.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Coimbra
Green 4x4 vehicle with logo.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Green 4x4 vehicle with logo.
Options you can book
Afternoon Tour
Optional: Hotel, Hostel or Guest House paid locally. Duration: 4 hours Optional: Pic-nic or restaurant paid locally 4WD Toyota LandCruiser Afternoon tour: Come with us and live an unforgettable experience in Lousa mountain visiting the schist villages ! Pickup included
Morning Tour
Optional: Hotel, Hostel or Guest House paid locally. Duration: 4 hours Optional: Pic-nic or restaurant paid locally 4WD Toyota LandCruiser Morning tour: Come with us and live an unforgettable experience in Lousa mountain visiting the schist villages ! Pickup included
Full Day Tour
Optional: Hotel, Hostel or Guest House paid locally. Duration: 8 hours Optional: Pic-nic or restaurant paid locally. 4WD Toyota LandCruiser Full day tour: Come with us and live an unforgettable experience in Lousa mountain visiting the schist villages ! Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- pt, en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Veado Verde / Green Deer
Know before you go
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
- A maximum of 10 people per booking
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 136 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
136 verified traveler reviews for Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Highlight of Portugal
The trip with Alfredo to the mountains and experiencing the beauty and tranquility of the schist villages has been the highlight of my time in Portugal
Response from the operator: Thank you for your nice review. It was a pleasure meeting you and doing this tour with you!
via Viator
Magical experience and tour.
This is a special tour with a special guide. My wife and I had the best four hour magical afternoon with Alfredo. The shale villages of the hills are spectacular and something uniquely different in Portugal. Thank you. Highly recommend this tour and experience.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your nice review and recommendation. It was a pleasure meeting you and doing this tour with you!
via Tripadvisor
This is a unique...
This is a unique experience. The villages are amazing to wander through, and the history provided by Alfredo gave it meaning and context. This was a highlight of my trip to Portugal.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your nice review. It was a pleasure meeting you and doing this tour with you!
via Viator
Wonderful Tour!!!
We booked this tour last minute during our visit to Coimbra and could not have been more pleased with everything! Alfredo was such a wonderful tour guide. His genuine love for the area and nature made our trip so enjoyable. The shiest villages are amazing hidden gems. All of our stops include fun little art or coffee shops. Gelato and Chestnut liqueur are a must! Do not hesitate to book a tour today!!!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your nice review. It was a pleasure meeting you and doing this tour with you!
via Tripadvisor
Spectacular Views, Tasty Treats, & Interesting History.
Meeting place was central and easy to find. Alfredo was friendly and knowledgeable; he made suggestions at the village restaurant to try the local Chestnut treats and liquor and it was fantastic! The village views shouldn't be missed! It was a great trip and I was very satisfied.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your nice review. It was a pleasure meeting you and doing this tour with you!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $103 to $180
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 48
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Veado Verde / Green Deer, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 72.4.
See everything Veado Verde / Green Deer runsWhy this scores 86
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Coimbra.
How much does Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain cost?
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Prices start at $103 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Coimbra usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain take?
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Plan for about 4 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Coimbra is not rushed.
Is Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 86 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 136 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Coimbra, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain?
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Around 48 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Coimbra can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Coimbra and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Coimbra within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Coimbra?
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On Outty we rank every Coimbra experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Coimbra Top Attractions Walking Tour, Discovering the charms and places of Coimbra, Soft Canyoning, river Ceira, Góis, Serra da Lousa, Coimbra. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Coimbra?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Coimbra?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain?
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Included: One souvenir photo; Binoculars; Driver/guide; Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected); and Professional photographer guide. Not included: Food and drinks, unless specified; and Souvenir photos (available to purchase). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 9 listed pickup locations in and around Coimbra. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain offered in?
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It is offered in Portuguese, English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain?
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Across 136 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
What booking options are available for Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Afternoon Tour, Morning Tour, Full Day Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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