Viseu is defined by its rich cultural heritage and the earthy beauty of its endless rolling landscapes, dotted with ancient stone hamlets and verdant green vineyards. The city is one of Portugal’s creative capitals, with art that runs the historical spectrum from prehistoric rock carvings and exquisite Romanesque architecture to traditional street mosaics and modern murals.

Keen cyclists should not miss taking a trip along one of Europe’s most scenic biking routes – the Ecopista do Dão, which snakes its way along the banks of the Dão River and through flourishing oak and chestnut forests. The region is home to some of the country’s most scenic wine estates, producers of fine Dão wines that form the perfect complement to the inimitable local cuisine.

Roughly one and a half hours drive from Viseu is the Faia Brava Natural Reserve – a natural wonderland of rugged mountains, sparkling rivers and rocky canyons where the resident wildlife includes eagles, vultures, and wild horses.