This guide to visit Penedo Furado introduces one of the most beautiful natural spots in Central Portugal, known for its waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, river beach, and wooden walkways that let you explore the surrounding landscape.
Located in Vila de Rei, Penedo Furado has plenty to offer — from waterfalls and viewpoints to a river beach and a wooden walkway that lets you explore the surrounding natural landscape.
It’s one of those perfect spots for anyone who loves nature and discovering lesser-known places in Portugal.
With that in mind, I created this guide to help you plan your visit to Penedo Furado and make the most of everything this destination has to offer.
A visit to Penedo Furado is the perfect plan for a great day out in Central Portugal. So, keep reading to find out more!
What is the best time of the year to visit Penedo Furado?
The Penedo Furado area is especially popular during the summer months, due to its river beach.
If you want to enjoy the river beach on your visit and swim there or at the waterfall, then you should consider visiting Penedo Furado in the summer.
Just a quick heads-up: during the summer months, temperatures in the region can get quite high, and both the waterfall and the river beach may have lower water levels.
However, if you’re not looking to go bathing, any time of year is a good time to visit Penedo Furado.
How to get to Penedo Furado?
Penedo Furado is located in the municipality of Vila de Rei, district of Castelo Branco. Access to this part of the country is easier by car, and the journey takes about 2h20 from Porto (213 km/ 132 mi) and 1h50 (166 km/ 103 mi) from Lisbon.
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Guide to visit Penedo Furado: what to do and visit
Visiting Penedo is much more than just visiting a place. My recommendation is to park near the river beach of Penedo Furado.
There are several parking spaces available and the distance between the car park and the beach is quite small.
The Penedo Furado walkway starts next to the beach. It is very pleasant and takes you to the Penedo Furado waterfall and also to the Penedo Furado and Fragas do Rabadão viewpoints.
On our way back to the starting point (river beach), we will also have the opportunity to pass by two important sites: Penedo Furado Cave and the Bicha Pintada fossil.
» Penedo Furado River Beach
Penedo Furado River beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, having even been a finalist for the 7 Wonders of Portugal, in the category of beaches.
Its waters are crystal clear and quite cold, and the stream (which gives way to the river beach) is a tributary of the Zêzere River.
In summer or on hotter days, you’d better not forget your swimsuit because most likely you’ll want to take a dip in that water.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The river beach has a good support infrastructure (e.g., cafeteria, showers, toilets) and is even supervised in the summer months.
» Penedo Furado Walkway
Penedo Furado walkway is a circular trail of about 1.8 km (1.1 mi). The trail, although short, is well worth the effort and very pleasant.
The part that connects the river beach to the Penedo Furado waterfall is flat, making it perfect even for those with reduced mobility or kids.
This first part of the trail is only 700 metres (0.4 mi) long and takes about 15 – 20 minutes.
However, the next section that allows us to continue beyond the waterfall to the two viewpoints is a bit more difficult. Much of this section is done on an uphill staircase!
💡 EXTRA TIP: If you are not willing or able to walk the second part of the walkway, you can reach the viewpoints by car, making the visit much easier!
Useful information about the Penedo Furado Walkways
- Distance: 1,8 km/ 1.1 mi (round trip)
- Circular trail
- Beginning/End: Penedo Furado River Beach
- Difficulty: Easy
» Penedo Furado Waterfalls
Along the Penedo Furado Walkway, we will pass the Penedo Furado Waterfall.
The waterfall may be small, but it is very inviting for a swim. Perfect for those looking for a less crowded alternative to the river beach.
Also, after passing the main waterfall, we can continue along the walkway towards another, more hidden waterfall.
» Viewpoints
And to end the visit, nothing better than two viewpoints with panoramic views. They are the Fragas do Rabadão Viewpoint and Penedo Furado Viewpoint. In one of the viewpoints, we can also find a swing.
Accommodation in Penedo Furado
Ferreira do Zêzere or Vila de Rei are two places near Penedo Furado with some interesting accommodations. I’ll share some suggestions with you:
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Frequent questions about Penedo Furado
» Is Penedo Furado worth visiting?
Yes, Penedo Furado is definitely worth visiting. It’s one of the most complete natural destinations in Central Portugal, combining waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, walkways, and a river beach all in one place. It’s perfect for a relaxing day surrounded by nature.
» How much time do you need to visit Penedo Furado?
To visit Penedo Furado at a relaxed pace, you should allow between 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time to walk the trails, see the waterfall, enjoy the river beach, and stop at the main viewpoints.
» Are the Penedo Furado walkways difficult?
No, the Penedo Furado walkways are considered easy. The section between the river beach and the waterfall is flat and accessible. However, the part leading to the viewpoints includes stairs and can be slightly more physically demanding.
» Can you visit Penedo Furado with kids?
Yes, Penedo Furado is suitable for visiting with kids. The river beach area and the first section of the walkways are accessible and safe. However, extra care is recommended near stairs and viewpoints.
» What is the best time to visit Penedo Furado?
The best time to visit Penedo Furado is during spring and summer. In summer, it’s ideal for enjoying the river beach and swimming, while in spring the landscape is greener and the waterfall usually has more water.
» Where can you park at Penedo Furado?
The best place to park at Penedo Furado is near the river beach. There is a parking area with easy access to the walkways and the main points of interest.
Final thoughts
Penedo Furado is one of those destinations that truly surprises with the variety of experiences it offers in one place. From the waterfall and river beach to the walkways and scenic viewpoints, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy nature and beautiful landscapes.
If you were looking for a guide to Penedo Furado, I hope this article helped you plan your visit and understand what you shouldn’t miss while you’re there.
If you have any questions while planning your trip, feel free to leave a comment.
Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊
