Buçaco National Forest — Attraction in Mealhada

The Bussaco National Park with its fairy tale palace is now on my list of favorite places in Portugal. The fairy tale palace, completed in 1907, is now a hotel where you can book rooms through booking.com. I imagine staying there gives you the chance to explore the stunning surroundings early in the morning before the first tourists arrive. You could, for instance, hike up to the park’s highest point with a large cross and enjoy an amazing view of the area. Along the way, you'll come across small yellow houses with glass partitions instead of doors. Take a look inside, and you’ll see scenes from the Bible, showing when Jesus carried the cross to his crucifixion. The statues are made of clay, though some are partially broken. Another option is to stroll down an avenue of ancient tree ferns. In the same area, you can’t miss the Cold Fountain (Fonte Fria), framed by long rows of stone steps. The park’s trails and chapels were built by monks back in the 1600s. An interesting fact is that, by papal decree in 1623, women were banned from entering the park 🤦‍♀️ Thankfully, times have changed. By the way, within the castle-hotel grounds, you can enjoy a nice galão (coffee with milk) at the local café. Entry to the park (ONLY CASH):

On foot - free Bicycle - free 2-wheel vehicles with engine - €3 Light vehicles - €7 Motorhomes - €15 Minibus (up to 25 seats) - €25 Heavy passenger...

Mata Nacional do Buçaco, nestled in central Portugal, is a captivating haven for nature enthusiasts and history aficionados alike. Spanning 105 hectares, this enchanting forest boasts over 250 tree and shrub species, including towering cedars, majestic sequoias, and delicate tree ferns. The forest’s serene trails wind through lush greenery, leading visitors to hidden gems such as the Fonte Fria, a cascading water stairway, and the Vale dos Fetos, a tranquil valley adorned with ancient ferns. 

Rich in history, Buçaco was once home to Discalced Carmelite monks who meticulously cultivated this arboretum in the 17th century. Their legacy endures in the meticulously preserved paths, chapels, and the imposing Buçaco Palace, a neo-Manueline architectural marvel that now serves as a luxury hotel. The forest’s harmonious blend of natural beauty and historical significance offers a unique experience for all who visit. 

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, a scenic hike, or a glimpse into Portugal’s rich heritage, Mata Nacional do Buçaco promises an unforgettable journey into the...

Visited on a very gloomy and rainy December day. Unfortunately, visibility was bad, footpaths were covered in water and wet fallen leaves, so we paid a full 6€ entrance (for 1 car, pedestrians pay less, bigger vehicles pay more) for only a couple hours visit, as it wasn't very enjoyable. It's a shame, as the forest looked thick and lush but we couldn't get to visit all iconic spots. However we glimpsed how quirky and interesting the architecture is: the ornate gothic/romantic building of the hotel is right at the back of a much simpler looking monastery and church, decorated with peculiar mosaics made of stones. Definitely worth a stop, especially as it's conveniently placed between Porto and Lisbon, making it a great detour on a road trip...