Stories & Guides from Central Portugal

Bussaco Forest & Luso: a tranquil day trip from Pombal

A walled royal forest with 250+ exotic species, a fairy-tale palace hotel and a thermal village at its feet — the quietest hidden-gem trip within an hour of the house.

Autumn in Central Portugal: why September–October is the quietest (and best) time

The warmest sea of the year, empty beaches, golden forests and monuments without queues: the case for the shoulder season around Pombal.

Central Portugal by Car (or EV): A Quiet-Countryside Road Trip from Pombal

Coimbra, Fátima, the Bussaco forest and the Atlantic coast — a practical road-trip plan based in Pombal, with real drive times and the new fast-charging corridor that makes EV travel easy.

Hot Springs and Thermal Spas Near Pombal, Central Portugal

Portugal is one of Europe’s great thermal-bath countries. From Monte Real (~40 min) to São Pedro do Sul (~2 h), here’s what to expect at the spas within day-trip reach of Casa dos Duques.

New for 2026: A €12 Million Adventure Park in Castanheira de Pera

A €12 million adventure park is announced for Castanheira de Pera, around 45 minutes from Pombal. What it means for family day trips — and why Central Portugal is being called “Portugal without the crowds”.

How to Buy a Vacation Home in Pombal, Portugal — A Practical Guide

Thinking of buying a holiday home in Central Portugal? Step-by-step guide from finding property with Habifit and Idealista to financing with Financial Options. Practical advice from people who’ve done it.

Também em Português · Nederlands · Français

Best Restaurants in Pombal, Portugal — A Local’s Guide to Dining

Discover the best restaurants in Pombal, Portugal. From Casa das Gatas’ matured meats to O Pote do Leitão’s famous roast suckling pig, plus the new Café da Xénia for brunch — all within 16 minutes of Casa dos Duques.

Discover Abiul and Pombal — Your Guide to Central Portugal from Casa dos Duques

Between the UNESCO monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaça lies a region most travellers miss. Discover Abiul and Pombal: Templar castles, Atlantic beaches, river beaches, and four UNESCO sites within 50 minutes.