Top 4 Natural Monuments around Meruge

The Devil's Horns are a prominent granite rock formation with two horn-like points, located in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, near Lapa dos Dinheiros and Senhora do Desterro (not in Gerês, but in Seia, Portugal). They are the highlight of a famous circular hiking trail that follows a water channel and the Caniça stream, offering stunning landscapes, lagoons, and waterfalls. 👍🥾

Designated a National Monument since 1974, this structure retains the nine upright stones of its main chamber, which is three meters high, and the capstone (covering slab) practically intact. The access corridor to the chamber has 15 upright stones and preserves all the covering slabs, with the dolmen being inserted into a tumulus (or mound, which originally covered the entire stone structure of the monument) approximately 20 meters in diameter. Its construction is believed to have occurred during the Neolithic-Chalcolithic period (between the end of the Neolithic and the beginning of the Chalcolithic), corresponding to the end of the 4th millennium BC. The region where the Orca Dolmen is located shows traces of continuous human activity and occupation since the prehistoric period. It is situated in an area with orographic characteristics conducive to human settlement, being close to a watercourse (the Mondego River) and possessing vast hunting resources. We know that shepherding has been a source of livelihood and income for centuries for the populations of the region, situated on a livestock route between the highlands of the Serra da Estrela and the Mondego valley.

The Lapa dos Dinheiros river beach is in perfect harmony with nature. Located in the parish of Lapa dos Dinheiros, on the Caniça River, a right-bank tributary of the Alva River, this bathing area is nestled in a mountainous landscape dominated by the Lapa Souto (south of Lapa) and imposing granite outcrops. With clear water, very appealing for swimming, the beach boasts the award for accessible beach and has lifeguards and a bar available to visitors. The rugged terrain of the valley causes the river to form a succession of small waterfalls nearby. The Lapa Souto, in addition to its valuable collection of centuries-old chestnut trees, is also home to a high level of biodiversity. From the bridge, a pedestrian path leads to the Moura Hole and a viewpoint over the Caniça Waterfalls. The Buraco da Moura is a natural cave system created by the sliding and accumulation of large granite blocks, which formed a complex system of rooms and galleries. How to get there? Once in Seia, follow the EN231 to S. Romão. From there, continue uphill for about 5 km, toward Loriga/Lapa, until you find the sign for Lapa dos Dinheiros on the left. Once inside the town, simply follow the beach signs. Coordinates: 40º 23′ 07.0″ N / 7º 41′ 50.1″ W

The Poços de Broca de Muro, better known as Poço Fundeiro, were born of human ingenuity, which, by diverting the course of streams to gain more fertile land, ended up creating unexpected treasures. Between drop-offs and rocks, these imposing waterfalls and natural pools of crystal-clear water emerge. Some lurk alongside roads, others hide in more secret, verdant corners. In summer, they are an irresistible invitation for a refreshing dip.

The Loriga Stream Route connects Loriga to Vide, winding through a deep valley where water dictates the rhythm. Along the way, centuries-old levadas (water channels) run alongside the trails, among woods, terraces, and ancient paths. In the wildest corners, holm oaks, holly, and Portuguese laurel trees hold the secrets of the mountains. And when the stream rages, it leaves its mark with the so-called giant's marmitas (waterfalls carved by erosion).

The enigmatic Devil's Horns rise from the granite, defying the sky with their six-metre height. Sculpted by erosion over the centuries, they earned this bold name thanks to their sharp and imposing profile. But the charm doesn't end there: around this unique formation, there are small crystal-clear lagoons and serene waterfalls, creating a true natural refuge that seems to have come straight out of a fantasy story.

Nestled on the banks of the Caniça river, a tributary of the Alva river, this beach area is a haven in the middle of a mountainous landscape, where ancient chestnut trees and granite blocks shape the scenery. The crystal-clear, inviting water is perfect for a refreshing dip. The beach, which has been awarded the title of accessible, has lifeguards and a bar, making the experience even more enjoyable.

It is one of the largest dolmens in Portugal and one of the best preserved.