on the Elderberry Route
In the heart of Varosa Valley, between Salzedas, Ucanha and Dálvares
By the Varosa River, in the lands of Tarouca, the elderberry tree transforms the landscape and defines this region's identity. History comes alive in Cistercian monasteries, Roman monuments, and medieval buildings, meeting the prestige of Portugal's first demarcated sparkling wine region: Távora-Varosa.
During blossom season, the valley is draped in a fragrant white veil, and Dálvares celebrates the "Elderberry in Bloom Festival" (Festa do Sabugueiro em Flor), a vibrant display of culture and ethnographic tradition.
• Explore the trails of the Elderberry Capital and feel the power of nature in the valley
• Cross millenary bridges and ancestral paths that connect history to the river
• Discover the Cistercian legacy and the sparkle of Murganheira Caves
choose your experience
Hiking Experience
Essential from €50
(meeting point in Salzedas – no transfer)
Includes: guide and mandatory insurance; visits to Salzedas Monastery, Sparkling Wine Museum, Murganheira Caves; regional final toast
Classic from €70
(hiking with transport included)
Includes: all "Essential" services + round-trip tourist transport from Curia/Anadia
Cultural Experience from €95
Includes: all "Classic" services + traditional lunch in Ucanha (selected menu)
Private Experience: Upon request
all terms and conditions regarding the "Essential", "Classic", "Cultural" and "Private" packages can be found in the "Regulation and Terms of Participation" *
next available dates:
hiking journey:
May 18th to 24th (Blossom Edition), by prior booking
cultural journey:
Year-round, upon request
hiking details:
circular ~12km walk with medium difficulty level
recommended equipment:
comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, small backpack, water, hat, and sunscreen
conditions:
minimum 6 participants
booking required
information for international visitors:
if you prefer Portuguese, please check the Portuguese version for full details and support
Hiking Experience: The Varosa Valley Trail
Discovering the Elderberry Capital is done at the rhythm of your steps and in direct contact with nature.
We propose a circular hike connecting Salzedas, Dálvares, and Ucanha, revealing the true soul of this region.
Starting from the Salzedas Monastery, we walk part of the mystical "Monks' Path", offering a privileged view over slopes shaped by elderberry cultivation. In Spring, these hills are covered in a fragrant white mantle. Along the way, we cross millenary bridges of Roman and medieval origin and pass through villages steeped in history, where the sound of the Varosa River guides the walker through the region's deepest roots.
Cultural Experience: Rites, Myths and Flavors
This experience is designed to immerse you in the monumental heritage and living traditions of the Tarouca region.
The itinerary includes a visit to the Monastery of Santa Maria de Salzedas, a jewel of the Cistercian Order, and a stop at the iconic Ucanha Bridge and Medieval Tower. This is complemented by a selected regional lunch. We also visit the Sparkling Wine Museum and Murganheira Cellar, where we discover the secrets of Portugal's first demarcated sparkling wine region.
This experience follows the natural cycle of the elderberry tree.
In Spring, be enchanted by the spectacle of the blossom, as the valley dresses in scented white and celebrates the Elderberry in Bloom Festival.
Later, in late Summer, the theme shifts to the berry harvest. At any time of year, this journey lets you feel the pulse of a region that celebrates its identity through folklore, handicrafts, and unique flavors.
book now – limited spots
next available dates: May 18th to 24th
• Blend Cistercian spirituality with the delicacy of the valley in bloom.
• Experience the elderberry scent and the sparkle of regional wine.
• Discover ancient stone monuments and a millenary legacy.
👉 book your spot now:
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