A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Exploring Sabugal: A Hidden Treasure in Guarda, Portugal

Introduction

Sabugal is a charming city located in the district of Guarda, in northern Portugal. Known for its impressive medieval castle, its rich history, and its surrounding natural beauty, Sabugal is a tourist destination that offers a unique experience for visitors.

The Castle of Sabugal

The castle of Sabugal is without doubt the main attraction of the city. This impressive medieval castle, dating back to the 13th century, is situated on a dominant position above the river Côa. With its five corners, it is one of the most singular examples of medieval military architecture in Portugal. Visitors can explore the castle towers, stroll along its walls, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The Historical Center of Sabugal

The historical center of Sabugal is another must-see attraction. Here, visitors can wander through narrow, winding streets flanked by traditional Portuguese houses. The main square, Praça da República, is the heart of the city, with its town hall and several cafes and restaurants where visitors can try local cuisine.

The Surrounding Nature

Sabugal is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes that offer a wide range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and horseback riding in the Sierra de Malcata, a nature reserve home to the Iberian lynx. The river Côa, which flows through Sabugal, is perfect for fishing and kayaking.

The Local Cuisine

Cuisine is an integral part of the tourist experience in Sabugal. The city is famous for its cheeses, especially the Serra da Estrela cheese, considered one of the best in Portugal. Other local dishes include roasted kid, river trout from the Côa river, and homemade sausages.

The Festivals and Events

Sabugal is also known for its festivals and cultural events. Stand out during Holy Week, with its processions and religious rituals. In August, the city hosts the Medieval Fair of Sabugal, an event that recreates life in the Middle Ages with markets, tournaments, and music and dance performances.

Gastronomic Products of Sabugal

• Serra da Estrela Cheese

  Located in the Serra da Estrela region, Sabugal is famous for its namesake cheese. This cheese is one of Portugal's most appreciated, made from sheep's milk with a soft and creamy texture. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with bread and regional wine.

• Sausages

  The sausages, or cured meats, are another highlight of Sabugal's gastronomy. They are produced in an artisanal way using traditional recipes. Among the most popular are blood sausage (morcela), spicy sausage (chouriço), and flour sausage (farinheira).

• Honey from Serra da Estrela

  The honey from Serra da Estrela is another iconic product of the Sabugal region. This honey is produced by bees pollinating the flowers in the mountain, resulting in a strong and unique flavored honey. It's used in both sweet and savory cooking and is highly appreciated in the area.

• Beira Interior Wine

  Sabugal lies within the Beira Interior wine region, known for its high-quality wines. The wines from this area are recognized for their intense flavor and excellent quality-price ratio. Both white and red wines can be found, making them the perfect pairing with the region's cheeses and sausages.

Places Near Sabugal

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

Sortelha, a picturesque medieval village in Portugal, offers a unique experience of traveling through time. Visitors can enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine with traditional dishes and local wines while exploring its charming cobblestone streets and historic castle.

Belmonte, in Portugal, is an enchanting tourist destination, known for its impressive medieval castle and rich Jewish heritage. Visitors can enjoy the delicious local cuisine, including the famous Serra da Estrela cheese.