Discover Hidden Gems on Scenic Road N2 Exploring Portugal's Hidden Gems on a scenic road N2 EN 2
Quick Facts About N2
Not all villages listed in the passport are on N2.
You can enjoy N2 from north to south or south to north.
You can complete N2 in sections.
Most fire stations in towns along N2 will stamp the yellow N2 passport.
N2 is compared to Route 66 in the US, but it's not as "Lights, Camera, Action."
The area near Chaves is mountainous, featuring Eucalyptus, Pine trees, and grapevines.
The further south you travel, the flatter and drier the terrain becomes, with Cork trees.
Scan the code inside the yellow passport for each town to find out where to get stamps in that area.
Exploring Portugal's hidden gems on the scenic N2 road is a journey worth taking.
"THE ROAD THAT UNITS US
1 country in 739.26 km
11 districts and
35 municipalities
11 mountains and
13 rivers
1 unique experience.
Dare!"
What is N2 in Portugal?
The National Road N2 is Portugal's longest road, connecting Chaves in the north to Faro in the south. If you're looking to avoid toll roads, driving along N2 is a fantastic option. This scenic route offers a unique view of Portugal's countryside and hidden gems.
Where Does N2 Start and End? Exploring Portugal's Hidden Gems on a scenic road N2
The National Road N2 runs from north to south, effectively cutting the country in half. This historic and scenic trip is perfect for travelers seeking to explore the heart of Portugal. Developed in 1945, N2 officially spans 739 kilometers. Imagine traveling through 35 municipalities, 27 town halls, 11 cities, and countless rural villages. It has earned the nickname "Route 66" to parallel the famous American highway. The new N2 road is designed to encourage tourists to enjoy the Portuguese countryside and all it has to offer. The AMREN2, or Association of Municipalities on National Road 2, was formed in 2016 to promote this legendary road for travelers. Take several days, or even weeks, to fully enjoy this scenic journey.
The official organization managing and promoting the famous \(738\text{ km}\) N2 route (Estrada Nacional 2) in Portugal is the Associação de Municípios da Rota da Estrada Nacional 2 (AMREN2). [1]
Official Website: The Rota N2 Official Portal has all route planning, municipality guides, and merchant information.
The Official N2 Passport: You can purchase the official N2 Passport for approximately \(€1.50\) and collect stamps at designated stops across the 35 municipalities you cross on your journey.
Contact Information: For direct inquiries, you can reach the association via email at geral@rotan2.pt or by phone at +351 254 810 130.
Which Towns Will You See When on N2?
Some of the legendary towns and sites in central Portugal that you will encounter include:
Santa Comba Dão
Chamadouro, a small village with a small campground
Viseu
Mondego Bookshelf near Penacova
Praia Fluvial
Castelo Da Lousa
Penacova
Vila Nova De Poiares
Aguiera Dam
Mortagua
Lampreia Restaurant in Chamadouro
The Aguieira Dam
The Aguieira Dam, also known as the Foz do Dão Dam, is located on the Mondego River, about 2 kilometers downstream from the mouth of the Dão River. The dam is located in Penacova and Mortágua, in the Coimbra and Viseu districts. Construction began in 1973, and it became operational in 1981. Its main objectives include producing and supplying hydroelectric energy, supporting agricultural irrigation, and controlling floods.
The 400 moorings make this river marina a desirable destination for boating, sailing, rowing, and swimming enthusiasts. Aguieira Marina offers a sailing and diving school, plus lessons in windsurfing, water skiing, and wakeboarding for all skill levels. Nearby, you'll find the Montebelo Hotel and Resort, perfect for a relaxing stay.
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Where Do You Get the N2 Passport?
You can obtain the N2 passport at various locations along the route. This passport is a paper book that showcases the stops along N2, letting you take in the scenic views of Portugal's countryside. The route passes through 35 municipalities, including the North Area. Drive N2 and feel the adrenaline as you encounter Roman Bridges and charming chapels that will capture your heart.
Where Should You Start to Drive the N2?
You can start your journey in either Chaves or Faro. If you're flying into Porto, starting in Chaves might be a convenient option.
Chaves (KM 0)
The most notable site is the Trajano Bridge, a 2nd-century Roman bridge that has retained its original features. Chaves Castle, a 14th-century National Monument built by King Dinis, houses a Military Museum. The Church of Saint Mary the Great was built in the 12th Century and renovated in the 16th and 18th centuries from granite. Pedras Salgadas is a thermal park and a source of mineral water.
Vila Pouca de Aguiar
This charming town offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.
Vila Real
As you approach Vila Real, expect many narrow turns and small bridges. Look for KM 30 to get a stamp. The breathtaking views of the mountains and hills covered in grapevines and olive trees are a must-see.
Santa Marta de Penaguiao
This area is part of the Douro Wine Region, which covers 250,000 hectares. People have enjoyed grapes from this region worldwide since the 12th century.
Regua
Regua's center is larger than expected, offering plenty of photo opportunities and local treats. Be sure to visit the Museu do Douro and take one of the available river tours.
Lamego
To find your first stamp in Lamego, head to the Saint Espirito restaurant or the Turismo building. Nossa Senhora dos Remédios Church is also worth a visit for its stunning architecture.
Castro Daire
Off N2, you can visit the Paiva Hermitage, a 12th-century Romanesque hermitage.
Viseu
Viseu is known for its hilltop old town, ancient cathedral, and scenic cobbled walkways. It's also famous for the highly delectable Dao wine from the neighboring Dao region.
Santa Comba Dao, Viseu
This small city in the District of Viseu has several points of interest, including the 18th-century square bridge and the town hall. Village edition
Sundays in Portugal can be relaxing at home, traveling, or spending time with family.
We attend an early morning Mass at 10 am. Our priest is a young Brazilian man who is always smiling. He is friendly and kind. We visit the Cemetery to place fresh flowers on the family memorials. My mother-in-law washes the stone and lights a candle.
We head home and relax. We never do housework, never clean, never work in the garden, and never put wash on the clothesline. It is to rest and let your body recover.
After a large lunch (1 pm), we walk to the town club to chat. You can have a coffee, beer, wine, or sumol. ( Portuguese soda)
On hot Sundays, we go to the beach for the hottest part of the day (1-4). The sun sets in September @7:30 pm. Village life is simple. Residents stay out of the sun in the afternoons.
We enjoy Mom’s homemade soup with everything grown in her garden (7:30 pm). Most of our local cousins eat dinner after 9 pm.
A simple lifestyle, with a wonderful outcome
Santa Comba Dao has great supermarkets where you can restock your supplies. The N2 visitor center is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-7 pm. It closes for lunch. The staff speaks Portuguese and English. Several local areas and places have N2 signs for photos.
Mortágua
While N2 passes near Mortágua, you can stamp your N2 Passport in town, including at the fire station and town hall. Mortágua has a small shopping area with cafes where you can sit and relax.
Penacova, Coimbra
Built on a mountain, Penacova offers stunning views of the Mondego River. You can climb the mountain, swim in the river, and enjoy a day at the river beach. A wooden bridge lets you walk across or jump off and swim in the river. Warning: the water is cold.
During the summer months, a lifeguard and a small cafe with sodas and sandwiches are available. There is a small campground to stay. My favorite thing to do in Penacova is to go to the top of the mountain and eat a bifana in the local cafe.
E-mail:postoturismon2@penaparque.pt
Summer Hours (March 15th to October 14th): 10:00 AM to 6:00 PMWinter Hours (October 15th to March 14th): 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Closed : Easter Sunday, Christmas Day and January 1st.
Lousa
This town can be tricky to navigate, but it features a large Continente supermarket for easy access to supplies.
Serta
Serta is known for its scenic views and charming streets. Be sure to visit the castle at the top of the mountain.
Faro
Finally, you can conclude your journey in Faro, where you can enjoy the local cafes and take in the sights.
Conclusion
Traveling along the N2 is an unforgettable experience. Each town offers unique sights and flavors, making it a perfect route for those looking to explore the heart of Portugal. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the stunning landscapes, N2 has something for everyone.
Don't forget to grab your N2 passport and collect stamps along the way. Happy travels!
Castles of N2
Name of Castle | Website/ Address | KM |
Castelo de Chaves | 0 | |
Alto da Pedisqueira, 5400-435 Chaves | ||
R. Castelo 10, 5400 Santo Estêvão, Portugal | 0 | |
Aldeia do Castelo | 41 | |
Castelo de Lamego | 5100-101 Lamego, Portugal | 104 |
Cava de Viriato | Viseu | 172 |
Complexo da Senhora da Piedade | 260 | |
Castelo da Serta | 345 | |
Castelo de Abrantes | 402 | |
Castelo e Torres | Largo Cândido dos Reis 7480-116 Avis | 466 |
Castelo de Montemor o Novo | 520 | |
Largo de São Luís, n.º 7 7090-280 Viana do Alentejo, Portugal | 551 | |
Why it's called Portugal's Route 66
It mirrors Route 66's purpose of connecting the country from one end to the other.
It offers an authentic, less-traveled alternative to coastal tourism, revealing the "other Portugal".
It's rich in history, with sections built from Roman roads, and it symbolizes national unity.
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