Running Events in the Castelo Branco District

Comprising 11 municipalities, this diverse region invites you to explore spectacular landscapes, quaint hilltop villages, and historic sites nestled among mountains ⛰️, plains, and lakes. Let's embark on a journey to discover this district together!

Starting in the south, near the Spanish border 🇪🇸, you will find the lesser-known Parque Natural do Tejo Internacional. This impressive natural reserve is located along the Tagus River. In this region, where time seems to stand still, the villages and towns offer a true immersion into local history and culture. About an hour's drive away, we recommend visiting Monsanto! Named the most Portuguese village in 1938, it’s a gem perched on a granite hill with a unique architecture. Its houses, built among massive stone blocks, and its winding cobbled streets lead you to the top, offering a breathtaking view of the valley. A little trivia for literature enthusiasts 📖: the doctor and writer Fernando Namora practiced in Monsanto. You might find some connections to this period of his life in his book "Retalhos da Vida de um Médico".

Continuing our journey towards the southeast, near the border with the district of Guarda, you'll encounter the Reserva Natural da Serra da Malcata, a region of gentle hills and dense forests 🌲. It's one of the last places where the Iberian lynx can still be seen. This preserved area is perfect for disconnecting and exploring a wild, authentic Portugal. The reserve is the result of one of the country's largest environmental campaigns. Following the decline of this iconic animal, environmental advocates secured protection for this unique habitat in 1981. Today, Serra da Malcata remains a sanctuary for many animal and plant species. Several peaks exceed 1,000 meters in altitude, with the chain's highest point being Alto da Machoca, also known as "Telefe", which rises to 1,078 meters. This summit offers spectacular views of the region and is a favorite spot for lovers of hiking and unspoiled nature.

Further west, welcome to Covilhã! Once the industrial heart of Portuguese textiles, it now boasts a vibrant face with its museums, murals, and university 🏫. The historic district, with its repurposed old factories, tells the story of this industry's importance. From the city, you can easily access the mountain to explore the alpine landscapes of Portugal's most significant mountain range, the "Serra da Estrela".

Finally, Castelo Branco, the district's capital, is a true cultural hub. Its main attraction is the Jardim do Paço Episcopal, a beautifully maintained baroque garden with its fountains ⛲, statues, and boxwood mazes. The Cargaleiro Museum showcases the works of one of Portugal's greatest ceramicists. Wandering through the historic center reveals the town's medieval heritage.

Beyond its cultural and natural riches, the district of Castelo Branco is also a prime location for sports activities 🏟️. Each year, several iconic races attract athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. The Ultra Trail de Gardunha is one of the most popular events, offering participants challenging courses through the region's rugged terrain. The Corrida de São Silvestre de Castelo Branco, held at the end of the year, offers a festive and friendly race through the Christmas-lit streets. For those seeking a true challenge, the Trail do Zêzere allows you to traverse unique natural areas, skirting cliffs overlooking the Zêzere River.