xisto kids

A world to enchant children in the Aldeias do Xisto.

Fun and Learning

Holidays and leisure moments are a precious opportunity to offer children a blend of fun and learning. Exploring a new destination sparks curiosity and creativity, broadens horizons, and strengthens family bonds. Visiting theme parks, museums, taking nature walks, or simply basking in the sun at a river beach are experiences that, when shared with family, become truly special and unforgettable memories. In the Aldeias do Xisto, you'll find all this and much more!

Create and Learn

From science to the arts, the Aldeias do Xisto offer a variety of spaces and activities that promote learning and experimentation. Using fun activities and virtual reality, the Geoscope – Astronomical Observatory of Fajão, in Pampilhosa da Serra, invites young visitors to explore the universe around us. In Proença-a-Nova, the Forest Live Science Center features interactive exhibitions and engaging experiments for all ages. At the Biological Park of Serra da Lousã, in Miranda do Corvo, visitors can learn about Portuguese flora and fauna, sponsor an animal, participate in feeding sessions, or enjoy a horse or pony ride. In Monteira Park, in Góis, the Trout Cycle is the main topic of discovery, alongside learning about the Water Cycle and exploring the Ceira Valley. For those drawn to the arts, Cerdeira, Lousã, is the ideal destination. Throughout the year, workshops are available to inspire creativity. At the Fab Lab Aldeias do Xisto, in Fundão, you’ll find opportunities to turn imagination into reality.

Tradition

Preserving and promoting traditions has been one of the guiding principles of the Aldeias do Xisto. From gastronomy to ethnography, there are countless ways to learn about the past and connect with history. In Ferraria de São João, children can get hands-on by kneading dough and working with milk to make bread and cheese. In Figueira, the community oven is ready to bake batches of bread or the traditional dessert, tigeladas. At the Casa do Saber Fazer in Sobral de São Miguel, visitors can learn not only to bake bread but also to prepare picas—a cornbread stuffed with codfish, sardines, or meat—as well as crafting braided mats (rodilhas) and brooms made from gorse. Nearby in Janeiro de Cima, the challenge lies in mastering the traditional loom, while in Lavacolhos, you can observe how a traditional bombo (bass drum) is made. In terms of ethnography, the Entrudo of the Aldeias do Xisto in Góis, with its iconic cork masks, is another unmissable tradition that beautifully reflects the heritage of this unique region.

History and Tales

The Aldeias do Xisto are built on the foundation of ancient people and places, offering a wealth of history and countless stories to discover. Did you know that the Torre da Paz (Peace Tower) in the Aldeia do Xisto of Benfeita commemorates the end of World War II every year with 1,620 chimes? Or that the Geodetic Center of Portugal is located in this region? In Vila de Rei, you can visit the Museum of Geodesy and learn more about this and other geographical curiosities. At the Ecomuseum of Schist Traditions, visitors can explore mountain culture and nature conservation. It’s also home to the unique Tree Maternity, where you can sponsor a plant to offset your environmental footprint as a tourist. Other must-visit sites include the Monsignor Nunes Pereira Museum in Fajão, the José Alves Monteiro Municipal Archaeological Museum in Fundão, and the Casa do Tempo in Castanheira de Pera. The tales of the Boat of Janeiro de Cima and the Santo António da Neve, where ice was stored to make desserts for the king and his court, are equally fascinating. Speaking of royalty, a visit to the Castle of Lousã and the Castle of Penela is a must. And while you're here, don’t miss the chance to explore the Rabaçal Roman Villa, a treasure of the region's history.

Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor life and physical activity in contact with nature are excellent ways to foster children's physical and emotional development. Nature itself is one of the most remarkable and attractive features of the Aldeias do Xisto. With a network of over 50 river beaches, waterfalls, and easy hiking trails, this region offers countless opportunities to refresh both body and soul. As you walk, keep an eye on your surroundings—both on the ground and in the air. You might spot rare species, like the azereiro tree, which thrives in the Mata da Margaraça. The Aldeias do Xisto are also home to some of Portugal's most remarkable bird species, making them an excellent destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. For more active experiences, grab a bike and explore the Trek Fun Trail in Ferraria de São João. Designed for various skill levels, it’s perfect for learning or improving mountain biking techniques. While there, take the time to visit the village's centuries-old cork oak grove, a unique and fantastic spot for a picnic or a nap on warm days.