Serra do Caramulo

The Caramulo rises to 1,075 metres at Caramulinho between the Dão valley and the coastal plain, a range of granite outcrops, heather, broom and pine with viewpoints that reach the Estrela on one side and the sea on the other in good visibility. Its history is medical: from the 1920s the village of Caramulo was developed as a tuberculosis treatment centre on the strength of its dry mountain air, with a string of sanatoria built for patients, and when antibiotics ended that model in the 1950s and 60s the buildings emptied, several standing derelict since. What remains is the Museu do Caramulo, founded by the family behind the sanatoria, holding an unlikely combination of a serious art collection - including works given by Picasso and Dalí - and a large collection of classic cars. Walking and cycling routes cross the range.

The landscape

• Caramulinho - the 1,075-metre summit with viewpoints in both directions.
• The sanatoria - buildings from the tuberculosis era, several long derelict.
• The museum - an art collection with Picasso and Dalí alongside classic cars.
• The range - granite, heather and pine with marked walking routes.

When to go

April to June and September to November. A day. Winter is cold with occasional snow; summer brings haze and fire risk.

Practical notes

Haze frequently ruins the long views. Several sanatorium buildings are derelict, fenced and unsafe - they are not a visit. Fire has burned parts of the range in recent years and the damage is visible. Public transport is minimal.

Nearby

Tondela and the Dão wine country are east; Águeda and the coast are west.

Key facts