Albergue de Areias in operation since February 14

The Pilgrim’s Albergue of Areias, in Ferreira do Zêzere, officially opened its doors on February 14, in a ceremony presided over by the Mayor of Ferreira do Zêzere, Bruno Gomes, accompanied by the vice-mayor and other members of the local government. The key to the new Albergue was formally handed over to Sónia Santos, the concessionaire and new manager of the establishment.

Eight months after the inauguration of the refurbishment works, which transformed the old Primary School of Areias into a welcoming facility, with an investment of 120,000 euros, the Albergue is finally ready to welcome its first pilgrims. The fact that the Albergue was inaugurated in June 2024 but did not immediately begin operating drew criticism from Hugo Azevedo, the municipal councilor from the PSD party. The Mayor justifyed the delay with difficulties in the concession process, stating that “things do not always go as planned,” and added that the Albergue had never been advertised as already in use, so he could not be held responsible.

The building, with more than 100 years of history, has been renovated to preserve its original architecture while improving its infrastructures. Known as “Escola Velha” (old Schol) or “Escola das Raparigas” (girls’ school), this former facility now offers pilgrims a welcoming space, with resting areas and a garden, where they can recharge before continuing their journey.

The Albergue is open daily from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, offering a dormitory with six beds, bathrooms with showers, a laundry, a common area, and a shared kitchen, at a cost of 10€ per night. To secure accommodation, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance. Check-in must be done by 8:00 PM, and check-out is until 9:00 AM the following day.

For more information and reservations, contact:
936 996 865 (Sónia Santos) or 918 655 539 (Albertino Santos)
alberguedeareias@gmail.com