Dao Road Trip

The Dao Road Trip is a scenic journey through the stunning countryside of Portugal, starting in the city of Santa Comba Dao and ending in the city of Seia. Along the way, you will pass through the towns of Santar and Viseu. The total distance is ca. 113 km and it is recommended to take 1 day to complete the trip. The best time of year to take the trip is during the spring and summer months when the temperatures are mild and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. The roads are generally in good condition and there are some curvy and narrow roads along the route. This road trip is perfect for any driver, providing a great level of experience and memories without breaking the bank. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes, quaint villages and stunning vistas as you cruise through the countryside of Portugal.

Santa Comba Dao is the starting point of the “Dao Road Trip”, a scenic journey through the Dao region in Portugal. It is here where travelers can get acquainted with the unique culture and lifestyle of this region. The most interesting sights to visit in Santa Comba Dao include the city’s ancient castle, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nossa Senhora da Peneda, and the local museum. It is also the perfect spot to enjoy exquisite local gastronomy, such as the famous “Cabeal”, a type of soup made with pork and vegetables. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Porto Airport (OPO), located approximately one hour and thirty minutes away from Santa Comba Dao. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy for travelers to get around the region. Therefore, Santa Comba Dao is the ideal place to start a road trip through the Dao region. Its stunning landscapes, historical sites and delicious gastronomy will make the journey one to remember.

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Santa Comba Dao to Santar! This 37km drive will take you less than two hours, and you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful scenery Portugal has to offer. As you make your way along the winding, narrow roads, you'll be able to take in the stunning views of the rolling hills, lush forests and quaint villages. Make sure you keep an eye out for the traditional windmills that dot the landscape! On your way, you'll also pass by the historical city of Viseu, where you can explore its ancient streets and learn more about its fascinating past. When you arrive in Santar, you can take a stroll through the village, visit the local museum and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Welcome to the road trip stage from Santar to Viseu! This 15km drive will take you less than an hour, so you can enjoy the scenery and visit some of the most interesting places along the way. Starting in Santar, you can explore the ruins of the 12th century castle, the Mother Church of Santar, and the Manuel Teixeira Gomes Museum. The museum has a collection of paintings, sculptures, and lithographs from the 19th and 20th centuries. As you drive to Viseu, you can take a detour to the village of Almacave and visit the Chapel of São Pedro. This chapel is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture and is surrounded by stunning landscapes. In Viseu, you can visit the Church of Mercy, the Church of São João Evangelista, and the Church of São Pedro. You can also explore the ruins of the old castle, the Manueline-style palace, and the Viseu Cathedral. This is just a small sample of the attractions you can find along this road trip stage. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your drive!

Start your journey in the beautiful city of Viseu, Portugal and take the scenic road through Mangualde to Seia. This 60 km journey will take you less than two hours and you'll pass through some winding roads. Along the way, you'll be able to admire the lush green hills of the Serra da Estrela mountain range and the picturesque villages of Mangualde. You'll also have the chance to explore the medieval city of Viseu and the city of Seia. Be sure to keep an eye out for the local wildlife and the amazing views of the countryside. As you travel, you'll find plenty of places to stop and take in the sights and sounds of Portugal. When you arrive in Seia, you'll find a variety of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites to explore. For more information, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip today!

The end of the "Dao Road Trip" takes you to Seia, a beautiful town in Portugal. Seia offers a variety of attractions for those looking for a great getaway. The Seia Castle, built in the 12th century, is an impressive sight to behold. The castle is surrounded by a lush garden and there are several walking trails around it. There is also the Seia Museum, which houses many artifacts from the area's past. Seia is also home to some of the best hiking and biking trails in Portugal. The Serra da Estrela Natural Park offers a variety of trails for all levels of hikers. For those looking to relax, there are also numerous lakes, rivers, and streams in the area. The nearby city of Covilha is also worth a visit, as it has a beautiful old town with churches and monuments that are worth exploring. The city is also home to several restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to take a break from the road. For those traveling to Seia by air, the closest international airport is Porto (OPO), located about 120 miles away. From there, it is a short drive to Seia. At the end of the "Dao Road Trip", Seia is the perfect place to relax and explore. There is something for everyone, from castles and museums to hiking and biking trails. Enjoy the beauty of Seia and all that the area has to offer!

Before you set off

Embark on the Dao Road Trip, a captivating journey through the heart of Portugal's countryside, beginning in the town of Santa Comba Dão and ending in Seia, covering a distance of about 113 km (70 miles). This Scenic Drive is a treasure trove of cultural history, local cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, offering travelers the chance to visit quaint villages, sample regional delicacies, and bask in the natural splendor of central Portugal.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Santa Comba Dão: This tranquil riverside town is not only the starting point but also a place rich in historical heritage, offering glimpses into Portugal's past and scenic spots along the Dão River.
• Santar: A picturesque village nestled amidst rolling hills, Santar is famous for its outstanding wines and beautifully preserved manor houses, reflecting centuries-old traditions of viticulture and architecture.
• Viseu: Known as the cultural heartbeat of the Dão region, Viseu is a city steeped in history, with an impressive cathedral, the Grão Vasco Museum showcasing Portuguese Renaissance art, and a lively center that celebrates the fusion of ancient and modern.
• Seia: As the Road Trip culminates, Seia welcomes travelers with its rich gastronomy, including the famed Serra da Estrela cheese, and proximity to Portugal's highest mountain range, Serra da Estrela, offering myriad outdoor activities.

Best Time to Go:

Experience the Dao Road Trip at its finest during spring (March to May) and summer (June to August). These seasons promise comfortable temperatures, blooming flora, and the verdant beauty of the region, making for an idyllic driving experience.

Potential Risks:

• Drivers should exercise caution on the region's winding and sometimes narrow Roads, especially those less accustomed to rural driving conditions.
• Stay informed about local weather patterns, as fog, rain, or snow in higher elevations can impact visibility and Road safety.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The entire route can be comfortably driven in a single day, but there's ample opportunity to extend the Trip by exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations along the way.
• Road conditions are generally good, but it's wise to check current travel advisories for maintenance or construction updates.
• This journey is not only a chance to witness Portugal's bucolic landscapes but also to engage with its rich cultural tapestry, from historic landmarks to contemporary local life.

A good choice for:

The Dao Road Trip is an idyllic foray into Portugal's soul, ideal for those eager to experience the country's natural splendor and cultural depth. With its combination of serenity and discovery, the Road Trip offers a memorable adventure for travelers seeking to connect with the essence of Portuguese life.