Portugal's longest funicular is located at the base of a monumentally impressive structure, offering a breathtaking ocean view.
The Longest Funicular in Portugal: Elevador de Santa Luzia in Viana do Castelo
Visitors to Viana do Castelo, a city in northern Portugal, should not miss the Elevador de Santa Luzia, the longest funicular in the country. With a route length of approximately 650 meters and a vertical climb of about 160 meters, the funicular takes around 7 minutes to complete its journey [1].
A Practical and Scenic Attraction
The Elevador de Santa Luzia serves as a convenient means of transport for tourists, sparing them the strenuous climb up to the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia, a popular viewpoint and church. The funicular operates as a modern system, running every 15 minutes and accommodating around 12 to 24 people per trip, depending on the source [2][5].
The funicular's scenic route and engineering simplicity have earned it praise, offering an easier ascent compared to hiking [2]. The journey provides breathtaking views of the city of Viana do Castelo, the Lima River, and the Atlantic Ocean [6].
Cost and Operating Hours
The ticket price for the funicular is approximately €2 for a one-way journey or €3 for a return ticket [2][5]. It is important to note that tickets must be purchased with cash as card payments are not accepted [5]. The funicular operates from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the summer and until 6 p.m. in the winter [3].
Notable Details
The travel time varies slightly, with some reviews citing 5 minutes and others up to 7 minutes [1][2]. The funicular lacks air conditioning, which can make the ride uncomfortable during hot weather [2][5]. During busy days, long queues can occur, with some visitors waiting 45 minutes or more to descend [2].
The Templo de Santa Luzia
At the top of the Elevador de Santa Luzia stands the Templo de Santa Luzia, a must-see attraction during a stay in Viana do Castelo. The temple was designed by architect Miguel Ventura Terra in 1904 and completed by his student Miguel Nogueira in 1959 [4]. The temple is inspired by the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris and is a significant historical landmark in the city [7].
From the Templo de Santa Luzia, the view dominates the city, the Lima River, and the Atlantic Ocean. Descending on foot via the staircase lined with pine and eucalyptus trees is an option after a trip on the Elevador de Santa Luzia [6].
The Elevador de Santa Luzia, with its rich history, engineering interest, and practical use, makes for an unforgettable experience for visitors to Viana do Castelo [1][2][5].
[1] https://www.visitportugal.com/pt/pt/pt/attractions/funicular-de-santa-luzia [2] https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188688-d3194409-Reviews-Elevador_de_Santa_Luzia-Viana_do_Castelo_Viana_do_Castelo_District_Norte.html [3] https://www.visitportugal.com/pt/pt/attractions/funicular-de-santa-luzia [4] https://www.portugal.com/portugal/viana-do-castelo/templo-de-santa-luzia [5] https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g188688-d3194409-r2003435487-Elevador_de_Santa_Luzia-Viana_do_Castelo_Viana_do_Castelo_District_Norte.html [6] https://www.portugal.com/portugal/viana-do-castelo/templo-de-santa-luzia [7] https://www.visitportugal.com/pt/pt/attractions/templo-de-santa-luzia
In the midst of planning an in-flights itinerary, one might consider incorporating a stop at Viana do Castelo, Portugal, where travelers can enjoy the Elevador de Santa Luzia, a funicular system that offers a practical means of reaching the Templo de Santa Luzia, a notable attraction. Moreover, individuals seeking a change in lifestyle or home-and-garden ideas might find inspiration in the scenic route and modern design of the Elevador de Santa Luzia, which provides breathtaking views of the city, the Lima River, and the Atlantic Ocean.
