We are always ready to help our guests discover this territory in the best way, taking into account their specific interests, time of year and weather. We know the trails, the geography of the territory, the fauna and flora. There are no dull days here, whether in winter or summer, rain or shine, whether you come alone, accompanied or with your family.
Bétula Tours
To optimize your stay or to reach truly special places, you can book a field trip with António Sá and benefit from his experience as a professional photographer and naturalist. Half-day, one-day or multi-day tours are always tailored to the participants, whether they are housed with us (special prices) or in any other accommodation in the region. Guidance, transportation and insurance included. Contact us for prices and availability.
Photography
If you have a special interest in photography, you couldn't be in a better region... and in better hands. The variety of the landscape, the distinctive seasonality, the ethnographic aspects, the heritage and the biodiversity provide unlimited opportunities and inspiration. You can also count on the suggestions of your host António Sá to make the most of your stay and take with you beautiful images.
Wildlife Observation
Thanks to the diversity and quality of its habitats, the Montesinho Natural Park and the neighbouring Serra da Nogueira are inhabited by most of the species of wild mammals that occur in Portugal, especially the Iberian wolf. The fact that this is an area of climatic transition makes it especially interesting for birdwatching as well, whether they are resident birds, such as the golden eagle and the black vulture, or migratory ones, such as the bee-eater and the golden oriole. Know the best places to find them: our advice can make all the difference.
Hiking and mountain biking
We regularly travel the territory to check the state of the walking trails and recommend the best ones for every physical condition, season and weather. We can also recommend mountain bike routes, with lengths to suit all preferences but always through an amazing variety of landscapes. Bring your bike!
The best of each season
Rivers, lakes and pools for swimming in the August heat; the most interesting woods for Autumn walks; where to make the most of a recent snowfall or have a nice picnic in lush meadows. We know how to point out the best activities and the best places for every season, because that's how we live.
Families
To fully enjoy the context of Bétula Studios, we take families on an interpretive walk around the village. Groves with giant chestnut trees, oak and holm oak woods; a descent to the mill or the climb to the geodesic mark, overlooking the Nogueira mountain range and the Spanish mountains of Sanabria and Culebra; find roe deer tracks, wild boar "pools"... and watch the passing herd. Confirm availability with us.
St. James Way
The Portuguese route of "Via de la Plata" - the section of the charismatic St. James Way, which begins in Seville - passes through the center of Lagomar, just a few meters from our studios. Much of this route crosses the Montesinho Natural Park, along oak groves, chestnut groves, meadows and rivers - probably the most beautiful landscapes the pilgrim will see on his way to Santiago de Compostela. If you wish to do part or all of these 80Km during your stay, we can help with a drop-off/pick-up service (subject to availability and prior booking).
