The PR3 VFL – Trilho da Serra de Faro starts next to the Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Assunção and passes through Vilas Boas. This connection between the sanctuary and the route through the village provides a specific reference point for planning a trip; the landscape and history offer further perspectives.

Hiking trails and their landmarks

At the start, the PR3 connects with the PR2 VFL – Trilho dos peregrinos da Senhora da Assunção, and at the end with the PR4 VFL – Trilho do rio Tua. The PR5 VFL – Trilho do Poço dos Lobos, by contrast, passes a place known as a “fojo do Lobo.” The trails therefore differ in their landmarks: the PR3 focuses on the route through Vilas Boas and its connections to the trail network, while the PR5 features a named place along the route. This helps distinguish the trails by their thematic focus without conflating their characteristics.

Sanctuary and landscape

The Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Assunção is considered the largest Marian sanctuary in Trás-os-Montes and lies at an altitude of 760 metres. Serra de Faro is regarded as a natural viewpoint, offering 360-degree views over the Tua landscape. The details highlight different aspects: the altitude pinpoints the sanctuary’s location, while the panoramic view relates to the landscape of Serra de Faro. A specific religious site and a broader landscape vista thus stand as distinct points of interest.

Local history in buildings and archaeology

The Pelourinho de Vilas Boas reflects the period when Vilas Boas was a vila and the seat of a municipality, from the 14th century until 1836. The parish church of Vilas Boas was designed in the 18th century; the Casa da Câmara is recognized as a significant example of civil architecture. On Monte de Nossa Senhora da Assunção there is an archaeological settlement, known as a castro, which was adapted to the uses and customs of Roman troops and Romanized. The historical references differ in type and period: the pelourinho represents an earlier municipal role, the parish church is associated with the 18th century, and the castro offers an archaeological perspective on Roman use.

Crafts and storytelling tradition

In Vilas Boas and the centre of Vila Flor, lacework, embroidery, linen tablecloths, patchwork blankets and wool blankets are part of the craft tradition. Other crafts include knitted sweaters, rugs, pack saddles, ironwork, and wooden figures and dolls. The range spans textile work as well as ironwork and woodworking. Local storytelling is also connected to the area: Lurdes Ala, a resident of Vilas Boas, published a book containing more than a hundred legends and stories from the village. Alongside architectural history and archaeology, crafts and storytelling are also among the cultural themes that shape Vilas Boas.

Discover more destinations: Lodões, Vila Flor.

Return to the main travel guide: Vila Flor.