For those of you who like to stretch your legs, the surrounding area offers miles of paths and walkways to explore.If you head for the hills of the Serra do Lousã you will find villages untouched by time, built from the local stone. If you're not feeling so energetic there are tours of the area in 4 x 4 jeeps that will show you the places of interest. www.portugal-walks.co.uk

Whilst in the hills, if you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can go paragliding. An experienced paraglider will take you on an hour flight down into the valley. www.parapente-portugal.org

Lousã has a new swimming pool just outside the town. There is also a 'natural pool' below the castle and next to Burgo restaurant.

There are daily trips down the Mondego river from Penacova to Coimbra for 20 euros per person. Visit www.opioneirodomondego.com for more details.

Vila Nova de Poiares is just 15mins drive from us and hosts an international gokart track. There are plenty of amenities so the whole family can enjoy a day out, there is a ten pin bowling alley just up the road, for those who don´t like the smell of rubber. There is no minimum number of drivers unless you want a Race when it is 10 people. Rates are reasonable from 12€ for a 270cc kart and safety equipment.

Mountain bike hire is available in Lousã with biking trips around the hills.

Excellent fishing in the local rivers. Licenses easy available.

There is also horse riding, ten pin bowling, climbing and other activities in the area. www.ridingportugal.com