The area around Quinta do Retiro is fantastic for families. It’s safe, spacious, and brimming with nature. Apart from the activities that can be done ON the campsite: here are 5 perfect tips for children aged 5-12 in the region:
- Playing & Swimming at Praias Fluviais (River Beaches)
This is an absolute must-see for children in summer. The water is often shallow, clear, and safer than the sea.
Recommendations:
São Sebastião River Beach (Tábua): It has a large playground right on the beach, grassy areas, and a kiosk. It’s a complete and sociable experience.
Avô River Beach: Beautiful surroundings, a small island in the river you can walk to, and a pebbled waterfront. A real adventure.
Fragã da Pena River Beach (Oliveira do Hosp.): The waterfall and pools look like something out of a fairytale. For older children (8+), climbing over the rocks by the water is a great adventure.
· Practical: Bring water shoes for the pebbles. Most have restrooms and a café.
- Adventure on the Paiva Walkways (Passadiços do Paiva)
· What it is: A spectacular 8 km wooden walkway along the raging Paiva River. It’s not the entire route, just a short section.
· Child-friendly option: Park at Areinho or Espiunca. Walk a short distance (1-2 km) back and forth. Along the way, there are places to stop for a dip in the water, balance on rope bridges, and see the cable car (Arouca 516) in the distance. It feels like a jungle expedition.
· Age: Suitable for children 6 and older who can walk a bit. Don’t carry them in a baby carrier, as there are many stairs. Check beforehand whether the access at Areinho is open.
- Visit the Wolf Sanctuary (Centro Lobo de Eiras)
Where: In Eiras, near Mafra (a bit of a drive, but well worth it).
What it is: A sanctuary for Iberian wolves in large, natural enclosures. You can observe the wolves in their packs from trails and viewing platforms.
Why kids love it: It’s exciting and educational. They hear the wolves howl (usually during feeding times) and learn about the importance of conservation. Much more impressive than a zoo.
Practical information: Check the website for feeding times and reservations. A visit lasts 1-2 hours.
- Discover the Interactive Bread Museum (Museu do Pão)
Where: In Seia (at the foot of the Serra da Estrela).
What it is: A modern, interactive museum about the history of bread. It might sound boring, but it’s a hit with kids. Highlights: They can virtually bake their own bread, grind grain, and see a huge collection of bread machines. The best part is the “mini-padaria” where they can shape and bake their own bread under supervision, and then eat it! There’s also a restaurant serving traditional food.
Practical: Perfect for a rainy day or as a change of scenery.
- Play Medieval Knight in a Historic Village
Combine history with fantasy play.
Recommendations:
Linhares da Beira: The gigantic castle is one big playground to explore. Children can run through the towers, walk along the walls, and defend the valley. Perfect for knight and princess play.
Piódão: This blue and white village looks like something out of a fairy tale. For children, it’s a maze of alleys and staircases to explore. Treasure hunt: “Who can find the house with the smallest blue window?”
Practical: Turn it into a treasure hunt. Give them some (toy) binoculars and a simple task (“find 3 coats of arms” or “count the cats”).
Bonus: Water fun in the Serra da Estrela!
· Covão do Conchos Cable Car: From Sabugueiro, you can take the cable car (teleférico) up to the lake. The ride alone is a thrill. At the top, you can walk around and see the mysterious “drainage tunnel” of Covão do Conchos (a kind of natural well in the lake). Very impressive.
· Snow Fun (Winter): In winter, you can sled and sometimes ski on the Torre. Rent sleds at one of the shops.
General Tip: The Portuguese love children. They are welcome in restaurants and cafes everywhere. Most activities are low-tech and about being outdoors and exploring – exactly what makes children happy!
