Valhelhas combines the history of Ponte Filipina with a river beach on the Rio Zêzere and religious heritage. At Praia Fluvial de Valhelhas, recreation and relaxation in the clear, calm water take center stage; natural shaded areas are also available. The bridge offers a different kind of discovery: its former road connection and subsequent reconstruction tell the story of the area’s transport history. This focus is complemented by the Pelourinho, two religious buildings, and cuisine featuring regional produce. This way, you can choose between cultural history, time by the river, and regional cuisine.

Ponte Filipina and its history

Ponte Filipina was part of the former road connecting Valhelhas with Covilhã. The present-day bridge is the result of a reconstruction carried out in 1631. Since 1977, it has been reserved exclusively for pedestrians. These details relate to different aspects: the road connection is part of the area’s former transport history, 1631 marks the reconstruction, and 1977 marks its use by pedestrians. Those interested in the history of the structure can distinguish its former function from its current use.

Buildings and religious heritage

The Pelourinho de Valhelhas is classified as an “Imóvel de Interesse Público” (Property of Public Interest) and was probably built from fine-grained granite in 1555. The Igreja Matriz de Valhelhas, also known as Igreja de Santa Maria Maior, is the same church; the two names do not refer to two different buildings. It is part of Valhelhas’s religious heritage, as is the Capela de Santo Antão e Divino Corpo Santo. The names help distinguish the church from the chapel. The dates associated with the two historic structures also refer to different events: 1555 is the probable construction date of the Pelourinho, while 1631 refers to the reconstruction of Ponte Filipina.

Relaxation at Praia Fluvial

Praia Fluvial de Valhelhas is located in the Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela on the Rio Zêzere. It offers opportunities for recreation and relaxation in clear, calm water, as well as natural shaded areas. The recreational complex includes a pedestrian bridge and an amphibious chair. These enable people with reduced mobility to use the bathing area.

Camping and regional cuisine

A municipal description from 2023 lists hot showers, grills, sinks with hot water, a playground, a restaurant, a snack bar, a games room, a first-aid station, and natural shade at Parque de Campismo de Valhelhas. Check which of these facilities are currently available before traveling. Restaurant Vallécula in the center of Valhelhas serves traditional cuisine based on regional produce. Check current operating details before visiting.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Vilar Formoso, Cavadoude, Vilar Torpim, Figueiró Da Serra, Valezim, Aldeia Do Bispo, Manteigas, Vale Da Igreja.

Return to the main travel overview: Guarda.