Nelas: A Relaxing Mountainside Retreat
Nelas, Portugal is a landlocked municipality in the Centro Region of the country, nestled in several mountain ranges, including the highest in the country, Serra da Estrela. The town is most accessible from the Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), in Porto, 95 miles away.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nelas, Portugal is between early May and late October. The busiest months for tourism are May, August, and July. It is best to book Nelas city hotels in November during the lean season. Head down to Torres Novas for the annual festival, one of the most popular in the country, featuring parades and entertainment.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Get to know the culture and history of Nelas, Portugal by visiting the Museu Etnográfico de Passos de Silgueiros and Câmara Municipal de Nelas. Then head to the Caldas da Felgueira to relax in its hot springs that has been in use since the 1880's and cross the scenic Ponte Caldas de Felgueira bridge over Mondego River. Visit magnificent churches in the area like the Church of the Savior and the Shrine of Our Lady of Viso. Check out the old Solar Sacadura Botte 17th century manor and then go for wine tasting and vineyard tours at Caminhos Cruzados Winery. Check into Hotel Nelas Parq, which sits less than a mile from the Nelas train station. The hotel offers well-equipped rooms with Wi-Fi, and a cafe, bar, library, and game room. Hotel Urgeiriça is just 4 miles from the Termas da Felgueira thermal spa and offers rooms with balconies and pool access. Guests can also enjoy cottages, a bar and lounge, an outdoor pool, and tennis court.