A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Sortelha: A Journey Through Time in Portugal's Medieval Village

Introduction

Sortelha is one of the oldest and best-preserved historical villages in Portugal. Located in the Guarda district, in the central region of Portugal, Sortelha is known for its impressive medieval castle, its cobblestone streets, and its stone houses that seem to have stopped in time.

The Castle of Sortelha

Sortelha Castle, built in the 13th century, is one of the main attractions of the village. This granite castle, located at the top of a hill, offers stunning views of the village and the surrounding landscape. The castle is in excellent condition and it is possible to walk along its walls and towers.

The Old Town

The old town of Sortelha is a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets flanked by stone houses with tiled roofs. Many of these houses date back to the Middle Ages and still retain their original features. Among the most notable buildings are Santa Maria Church, dating from the 16th century, and Câmara House, which was the seat of local government during the Middle Ages.

The Natural Environment

Sortelha is surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape, including mountains, valleys, and rivers. There are several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore this natural environment. Additionally, the village is located within the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, the largest protected area in Portugal, which offers a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Local Cuisine

The local cuisine of Sortelha is another one of its attractions. Visitors can enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes such as "bacalhau à bras" (codfish with potatoes and eggs), "feijoada" (a bean stew with pork), and "leitão à Bairrada" (roast suckling pig). Furthermore, the region is known for its wines, especially Port wine.

Events and Festivals

Sortelha is also known for its festivals and events that attract visitors from all over the country. One of the most prominent is the Sortelha Medieval Fair, held every year in September, which recreates life in the village during the Middle Ages.

Gastro products of Sortelha

• Serra da Estrela Sheep Cheese

  Sortelha, located in the Guarda region, is famous for its Serra da Estrela Sheep Cheese, a sheep's milk cheese with Protected Designation of Origin. This cheese is made from sheep's milk from the Bordaleira breed and has a creamy texture and intense flavor with a slightly spicy kick.

• Sausages

  The sausages, or charcuterie items, are another highlight of Sortelha's gastronomy. Among these are the blood sausage (morcela), spicy sausage (chorizo), and flour sausage (farinheira). All of them are traditionally made and perfect to enjoy with bread and cheese.

• Beira Interior Wine

  The Beira Interior region, where Sortelha is located, is known for its high-quality wines. The reds are robust and full-bodied, while the whites are fresh and fruity. These wines pair perfectly with the cheeses and sausages of the area.

• Serra da Estrela Honey

  Serra da Estrela honey is another standout product from Sortelha. This honey is produced in the mountains of the region and has a sweet and floral taste. It's used both for sweetening and cooking, making it a highly appreciated item in local cuisine.

Place near Sortelha

If you are in Sortelha and wish to explore more, here is a nearby place offering a unique tourist and culinary experience:

Sabugal, Portugal, is a charming destination known for its medieval castle, stunning landscapes and rich cuisine, featuring dishes such as roasted lamb and cheese from Serra da Estrela.