Vila Cova – to give its full name Vila Cova de Alva or if you approach from the opposite end of the village Vila Cova do Alva – is a picturesque village of 550 inhabitants in the province of Beira Litoral, in the green heart of Portugal.
It lies on the river Alva at the foot of the Serra do Açor, where there are fantastic walks and superb views of the surrounding mountains (Serra da Estrela, Serra da Lousa etc.).
The village has a defunct 18th century monastry, a church, four bars, and several small grocer’s shops, which sell fresh bread daily; a fishmonger and a butcher regularly visit the village, and there are several restaurants within a distance of 5 kilometres.
The Rio Alva has many quiet and peaceful beaches for swimming.
Watch this video of Vila Cova’s Philharmonic, returning to the village after a concert, and as usual meeting a warm reception by their fellow-villagers:
More information
- www.guiadacidade.pt
Information about Vila Cova and an overview of monuments and places to visit nearby.