The starting point of the Lousã Schist Trail – Four Villages Route is located in the schist village of Candal, heading toward the village of Catarredor.

As you approach this village, you’ll see schist walls, and oak, chestnut, and olive trees become more abundant.

Following the trail markers, you’ll pass through the village of Vaqueirinho. Next is the Schist Village of Talasnal, one of the most beautiful villages on the route, where you’ll find very well-maintained houses that stand out easily.

After visiting Talasnal, you walk carefully up the hillside—due to some slippery rocks—until you reach the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Piedade, a major tourist attraction consisting of the chapel dedicated to the patron saint of the town of Lousã, Nossa Senhora da Piedade.

A few meters ahead are the natural pools bathed by the clear, cool waters of the Ribeira de São João. Finally, you’ll find a paved road leading uphill toward Castelo Arunce.

In the Serra da Lousã, there are several Schist Villages, which have been undergoing restoration. The houses are mostly built of schist, the most abundant raw material in the mountains, along with wood.

Today, despite the low population density, the Schist Villages are a major tourist attraction.

The area surrounding the Schist Villages boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna. Wild boars and deer are frequently spotted. In addition to hiking the trails, you can also visit some traditional shops.