Germanelo Castle Swing

Have you ever stumbled upon a truly magical spot? Nestled just outside the charming town of Penela, in the heart of the Serra do Açor, lies the Baloiço do Castelo do Germanelo – a simple wooden swing with a remarkably rich story. It's located at the entrance to the ruins of the Castelo do Germanelo, a historic fortress commissioned by Dom Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, back in the 12th century.

This isn’t just any swing; it's a place steeped in legend and a tangible connection to Portugal’s past. Imagine sitting on this weathered wood, overlooking the rolling hills and the vast expanse of the Serra do Açor. The views alone are breathtaking, offering a sense of peace and tranquility often hard to find. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, a quiet corner where you can reflect and appreciate the area’s natural beauty.

Getting to the Baloiço is easy. You’ll find it on EM 563, São Miguel, Santa Eufémia e Rabaçal, within the municipality of Penela, part of the Coimbra district. You can reach Penela by car or, for a more scenic route, by autocarro (bus) from Coimbra. It’s a truly special experience – a small piece of Portuguese history and a beautiful place to simply be.