A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Tarouca: A Hidden Treasure in Viseu, Portugal

Introduction

Tarouca, a small town located in the district of Viseu, Portugal, is a tourist destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Although it is less known than Portugal's larger cities, Tarouca has much to offer visitors seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Historical Heritage

One of the main attractions of Tarouca is its rich historical heritage. The town houses several monuments and archaeological sites dating back to different periods in Portugal's history. Among these is the Monastery of São João de Tarouca, the first Cistercian monastery built in Portugal. This impressive building, dating back to the 12th century, is a testament to medieval architecture and offers a fascinating glimpse into monastic life from that era.

Nature and Landscapes

Besides its historical heritage, Tarouca is also an ideal destination for nature lovers. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the mountains of Serra de Leomil and the Varosa river. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing. Additionally, the region is known for its wine production, and tourists can visit local vineyards and participate in wine tastings.

Local Cuisine

The local cuisine is another major attraction of Tarouca. The area is famous for its traditional dishes, which include roasted kid goat, salted codfish baked on wood coals, and chestnut soup. Furthermore, Tarouca is known for its cornbread, baked in wood-fired ovens and served with homemade butter. Visitors can also sample the local wines, recognized for their quality and distinctive flavor.

Festivals and Events

Tarouca is also the setting for several festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most notable is the São Pedro Fair, held in June and attracting visitors from all over the region. During this festival, the inhabitants of Tarouca wear traditional costumes and participate in parades, dances, and other festive activities.

Conclusion

In summary, Tarouca is a tourist destination that offers a unique mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and cuisine. Although it is less known than Portugal's larger cities, Tarouca has much to offer visitors seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Gastrodetic Products of Tarouca

• Wine from the Douro Region

  Tarouca is located in the wine-producing region of Douro, known for its high-quality wines. The vineyards in the area produce a variety of wines, including red, white, and rosé wines. Port wine, a sweet fortified wine, is one of the most famous products from the region.

• Serra da Estrela Cheese

  Although Serra da Estrela cheese is primarily produced in the mountainous region of Serra da Estrela, it can also be found in Tarouca. This sheep's milk cheese is known for its creamy texture and mild yet distinctive flavor.

• Cured Meats

  Tarouca is also known for its cured meats, which include ham, chorizo, and sausages. These meat products are seasoned with a variety of spices, giving them a rich and unique flavor.

• Regional Honey

  The honey produced in Tarouca is another highlight of its gastronomic offerings. The bees in the region feed on a variety of wildflowers, giving the honey a unique taste and aroma. Honey is used both as a sweetener and in cooking, making it a common ingredient in many Portuguese dishes and desserts.

Places Near Tarouca

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

Lamego, Portugal, is famous for its impressive baroque sanctuary, its vineyards of Port wine and its delicious local cuisine, including the traditional ham of Lamego and Berlin balls.

Peso da Régua, in Portugal, is an enchanting tourist destination known for its impressive wine landscape of the Douro Valley. It offers a rich gastronomic experience with Port wine and traditional Portuguese dishes.