A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Idanha-a-Nova: A Hidden Treasure in the Heart of Portugal

Located in the Castelo Branco district, in the central region of Portugal, Idanha-a-Nova is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This small town, with its rich history and natural beauty, offers a unique experience for travelers seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

History and Culture

Idanha-a-Nova is a city with a long history dating back to Roman times. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city of Egitânia, which include a forum, a temple, and a theater. The town also features several historical buildings, such as the medieval castle of Idanha-a-Nova and the Church of Santa Maria.

Nature and Landscapes

Along with its rich history, Idanha-a-Nova is also known for its impressive natural beauty. Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and lakes, the town makes an ideal destination for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing in the International Tejo Natural Park, located nearby.

Cuisine

Idanha-a-Nova's cuisine is another major attraction. The town is famous for its cheeses, wines, and cured meats, which can be tasted at the numerous restaurants and taverns in the area. Additionally, every year the Raiana Fair takes place, an event that brings together local producers and visitors to celebrate the rich gastronomy and culture of the region.

Festivals and Events

Idanha-a-Nova is also home to several festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most notable is the Boom Festival, a music and art event that attracts visitors from around the world. Other events include the Traditional Music Festival, the Theater Festival, and the Documentary Film Festival.

Conclusion

Whether you're interested in history, nature, cuisine, or culture, Idanha-a-Nova has something to offer. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene, this small town is a destination not to be missed on any trip to Portugal.

Gastro Products of Idanha-a-Nova

• Cheese of Idanha-a-Nova

  Idanha-a-Nova is famous for its cheese, made in a traditional way using sheep's milk. This cheese has a firm texture and a strong slightly spicy flavor. It's perfect to accompany with bread and red wine from the region.

• Sausages

  Sausages are an important part of Idanha-a-Nova gastronomy. These sausages include chorizo, blood sausage, and bologna, all made with traditional recipes and air-dried. They are ideal to enjoy as a appetizer or to add flavor to meat dishes.

• Regional Honey

  The honey from Idanha-a-Nova is another highlight of the region. It's made from the wildflowers in the area, giving it a unique and much appreciated flavor. It's used both to sweeten and to cook, and it's an essential ingredient in many traditional desserts.

• Regional Wine

  The Idanha-a-Nova region is also known for its wines. Local vineyards produce both red and white wines, with a wide variety of grapes. The region's wines are known for their quality and distinctive flavor, and they make the perfect accompaniment to local cheeses and sausages.

Places near Idanha-a-Nova

If you're in Idanha-a-Nova and want to explore a bit more, here are some cities and towns nearby that offer unique tourist and culinary experiences:

Monsanto, Portugal, is an enchanting medieval village known as "the most Portuguese village in Portugal". It offers a unique experience with its houses embedded in giant rocks, impressive panoramic views and delicious local cuisine, including the famous Monsanto cheese.

Penha Garcia, in Portugal, is a popular tourist destination known for its impressive medieval castle, picturesque cobblestone streets and delicious local cuisine, including traditional dishes like sheep's cheese and the wine of the region.

Castelo Branco, in Portugal, is famous for its baroque gardens, medieval castle and rich cuisine, highlighting dishes like sheep's cheese, fish soup and traditional sweets such as "coscorões" and "filhós".