Fernão Joanes – The Mountain Village of Shepherds

Fernão Joanes – The Mountain Village of Shepherds

Nestled in the heart of the Serra da Estrela mountains in central Portugal, Fernão Joanes is a charming mountain village renowned for its deep-rooted shepherding traditions and breathtaking natural landscapes. This picturesque village is an ideal destination for eco-tourism enthusiasts, families seeking a holiday with kids, and anyone interested in educational and cultural experiences.

Fernão Joanes is famous for its centuries-old pastoral lifestyle. The village once boasted over 4,000 sheep, and even today, the local community takes great pride in their flocks. Each May, a colorful festival sees sheep adorned with vibrant wool ribbons and tassels, parading to the 14th-century chapel of Nossa Senhora do Soito. This event is not only a visual delight for visitors but also an educational opportunity for children to learn about animal care, local traditions, and the importance of sustainable farming.

The chapel itself is a cultural gem, featuring ceiling paintings that depict the four seasons, symbolizing the annual cycle of transhumance – the movement of shepherds and their flocks up and down the mountains. This tradition is celebrated with another lively festival in July, where local gastronomy and crafts are showcased, making it a wonderful occasion for families to immerse themselves in authentic Portuguese culture.

For those traveling with kids, Fernão Joanes offers a variety of activities. In the village is a playground, cafe's and it has several stunning murals (Nuno Miles) depicting the history of Fernão Joanes. The village is surrounded by lush chestnut groves and scenic walking trails, perfect for nature walks, picnics, and wildlife spotting. The Parque de Lazer da Ermida da Nossa Senhora do Souto provides open spaces for play, sports facilities, and picnic areas, ensuring children have plenty of room to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Educational murals dedicated to the shepherds of Serra da Estrela add a creative touch, sparking curiosity about local history and traditions. More hiking trails include Trilho das Canadas (11 km), Engenho Grande / Fábrica de Marrocos (5.6 km), Fernão Joanes (1.3 km), Fernão Joanes - Nossa Senhora do Souto (10 km), Meios - Fernão Joanes (9.5 km).

Eco-tourism is at the heart of Fernão Joanes. Visitors can experience the harmony between people and nature, learn about sustainable practices, and participate in hands-on activities such as bread baking in the community oven or exploring the ancient chestnut trees. The village's peaceful atmosphere and clean mountain air make it an excellent choice for families seeking a healthy and enriching holiday.

Fernão Joanes is conveniently located just 5 minutes from Starbase18.com, our eco-tourism B&B apartment rental that serves as the perfect base for exploring the village and the wider Serra da Estrela region. Whether you are planning a family adventure, an educational trip with kids, or simply a relaxing eco-friendly getaway, Starbase18.com offers comfortable accommodation and easy access to all the wonders Fernão Joanes has to offer.

Discover the magic of Fernão Joanes and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones in this hidden gem of central Portugal.

Reference links:
Aldeias de Montanha