Bucaco National Park

About

Encircled by a 5 kilometer perimeter wall, Mata Nacional do Buçaco offers 105 hectares of protected nature, accessible though a series of gates. Posted on one is the text of 17th-century papal bulls forbidding women to enter, and threatening to excommunicate anyone harming the trees. Thankfully, today the forest is open to all visitors and features more than 250 species of trees and shrubs, including huge centenarians and exotics introduced by Portuguese mariners during the Age of Discovery. Among the 700 species of flora, are clay statues, stone staircases and mossy trails scattered throught this beautiful forest. An idyllic escape, the park is home to a 17th-century convent, a 15th-century chapel, and unique early 20th century palace.