Lorvao

In this case it is almost better to travel than to arrive, since the journey from Coimbra towards Penacova passes through the beautiful, virtually unspoiled landscape of the Mondego valley, turning at Rebodosa towards Lorvao, which lies about 25km/15mi further on. The last part of the route is through woods (good opportunities for walks) then the first buildings in this remote little place suddenly appear, together with the convent, first recorded in 878. The present buildings, originally dating from the 10th century, were remodeled at the Renaissance. Only the church and cloister can be visited since the rest of the complex is a mental health institution. The imposing church (late 16th century) has interesting choir- stalls and 18th century silver shrines, with elaborate intarsia decorations, containing the remains of Sancho I's daughters Sancha and Teresa (13th century). The cloister is enclosed by an intricately wrought grille.

This trip can easily be combined with a visit to the Bucaço National Park which lies north of Lorvao.