The Chestnut Festival celebrates one of autumn's most emblematic products, bringing together gastronomy, local products, crafts, and traditions. Organized by the Parish Council of Aldeia das Dez, with the support of the Municipality of Oliveira do Hospital and the Network of Aldeias do Xisto, the initiative invites residents and visitors to celebrate the chestnut and discover the parish's natural and cultural heritage.
Over two days, the chestnut is the main focus, but other emblematic products from the parish and municipality will be available from various exhibitors. Flavors and products of the land, crafts, gastronomy, exhibitions, music, and traditions will animate the event. The traditional magusto (roast chestnut gathering), enlivened by the Grupo de Concertinas ACOA, will take place at Largo Alfredo Duarte on October 24th at 8 PM. On Sunday, the festival continues at the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora das Preces, in Vale de Maceira.
Highlights include the Soup Contest, gastronomic offerings for lunch and snacks, and the traditional magusto offered to all visitors in the late afternoon. Musical entertainment will be provided by Filarmónica Fidelidade de Aldeia das Dez, Grupo de Cordas d´Aldeia, Rancho Folclórico Estrelas da Manhã, and Grupo de Bodos Desatinados. The Chestnut Festival is established as a celebration of local products and culture.
The Colcurinho Epic Trail returns with its start in Vale de Maceira on Sunday, October 25th. The race will take 350 registered athletes along the challenging trails of the Serra do Açor, in the municipality of Oliveira do Hospital. Distances include the Colcurinho Epic Trail of 25 km (2000 D+), Mini Colcurinho Epic Trail of 13 km (1100 D+), and a 12 km walk (900 D+).
Organized by the Municipality of Oliveira do Hospital in conjunction with CAOH – Clube Atlético de Oliveira do Hospital, and supported by the Rede Aldeias do Xisto, the race is registered with ITRA and counts towards the Coimbra District Long Trail Circuit and the National Sprint Trail Circuit (25 km).
The challenging course passes through emblematic locations such as Aldeia das Dez, the abandoned Aldeia do Colcurinho, the banks of the Alvôco river, and Monte do Colcurinho, offering views of the Serra da Estrela.
