Taste the Vibrant Fruit Palette of Fundo, Portugal's Creativity-Driven Cherry Hub
In Portugal's lush hinterlands, Fundão stands as the heart of cherry country, offering more than just the delicious, ruby-red fruit. Whether it's the spring blossoms or the crisp winter snow, Fundão charms visitors year-round.
April RevelriesWhen April arrives, the landscape transforms into a technicolor dreamland of blossoms. The compact historic core invites to amble down quaint streets filled with analogue camera shops, cherry-heavy boutiques, and slow-paced cafes. If you're curious about Fundão's past, pay a visit to the José Monteiro Archeology Museum housed in a Manor House. A sprinkling of statues and churches can be found along the marked heritage route, but for a more modern take, look for the ever-growing street art adorning the city.
June Splendors and BeyondBy June, the harvest season begins, and tables across the country—and Lisbon, Porto, and Fundão—groan under the weight of juicy cherries. Take a day trip to the village of Alcongosta, which produces nearly half of Portugal's cherries. Here, you can pick your own cherries or stroll through the Rotas da Gardunha trails for a panoramic experience amidst the cherry orchards. The Pride of Fundão is the Saco cherry, native to the region and exclusive to Portugal.
Ingenious ReinventionBeyond cherries, Fundão bubbles with understated creativity. Students at the Escola Profissional do Fundão perfect cherry-based dishes like a more purple-tinged Pastel de Nata, while the Wild Snow Dog Distillery crafts an award-winning cherry gin. The city's small tourism office offers cherry-infused liquors, beers, teas, soaps, and chocolates as souvenirs. The local street art scene is thriving, showcasing traditional lace and upcycled creations by Portuguese artist Bordalo II.
The Future is CreativeFundão greets the future with open arms, welcoming remote workers with a co-working hub and apt housing. This blend of creativity and connectivity transforms this old city, giving it a refreshed, vibrant soul.
The Cherry TraditionFor Bruno Fonseca, a local guide, the mere mention of Fundão brings forth wide-eyed smiles as the taste of the sweetest spring fruit surfaces. Fundão cherries hold the PGI designation, signifying they meet all size, color, and consistency requirements. A visit to the Casa da Cereja museum in Fundão offers an in-depth look at all things cherries, from planting to harvesting, and even adopting a cherry tree for someone special.
From the Cherries to the CastleFor a little respite, venture to Castelo Novo, one of the Aldeias Históricas de Portugal (historic villages), boasting a Gothic castle with breathtaking panoramic views. Explore the medieval, Manueline, and Baroque styles threading through its cobblestone streets, or indulge in local specialties at Pedra Nova, an imagination-igniting boutique hotel.
Storied Settlements with Sustainable WheelsVenture beyond Fundão's limits, and discover the hinterlands' fruitful farmland, dense forests, and storied schist villages. Nearby settlements such as Castelo Novo tell tales of high knights, long-forgotten stories, and hidden gems. For a greener alternative, consider utilizing the local e-car scheme provided by the tourism board to explore these historic settlements. Whether you embark on an epic hike or drive through the picturesque countryside, Fundão awaits, ready to showcase its rural bolthole charm, year-round.
- In the heart of Fundão, the Wild Snow Dog Distillery creates an award-winning cherry gin, blending creativity with the local cherry tradition.
- For a food-and-drink indulgence, visitors can savor cherry-infused liquors, beers, teas, soaps, and chocolates when traveling through Fundão's countryside, showcasing its unique lifestyle offerings.
