Characteristics of Beira Baixa Cherry
The Beira Baixa Cherry, especially from the Cova da Beira region (which includes Fundão, Covilhã and Belmonte), is renowned for its unique quality and flavour. This fruit, protected by the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), stands out for:
- Firm consistency, fleshy flesh and very sweet flavour.
- Colour ranging from bright red to purple-red, with some varieties having orange tones.
- Diameter between 24 and 28 mm and weight between 7 and 10 grams per fruit.
- Long, thick, light green stalk.
- Produced in soils with specific characteristics, benefiting from the altitude, sun exposure and climate typical of the region, factors that contribute to its exceptional quality.
The most traditional and cultivated varieties include “De Saco Cova da Beira”, “Roxa”, “Napoleão Pé Comprido”, “Morangão”, “Espanhola”, “B. Burlat”, “Bing”, “Van”, “Hedelfingen”, “Windsor” (also called “Roxa”), “Brooks”, “Summit”, “Sunburst”, “Lapins”, “Sweetheart”, among others. Depending on the variety and location of the orchards, the harvest takes place from the beginning of May to the second half of July.
Tradition and Regional Importance
Beira Baixa Cherry is a true symbol of Cova da Beira, and is called the “red gold” of the region. Its cultivation dates back to the end of the 19th century, but it was from 1950 onwards that it gained greater economic importance. Today, it is one of the main fruit crops in Beira Baixa, with a strong impact on the local economy and the cultural identity of the communities.
The cherry tradition is present not only in the production of fresh fruit, but also in the transformation into regional products such as jams, liqueurs, gin, brandy, chocolates and cherry pastries. These products are enjoyed all year round and represent the creativity of local producers.
Local Fairs and Festivals
The cherry cycle is celebrated with great enthusiasm in various festivals and events, the most emblematic being the Alcongosta Cherry Festival, in the municipality of Fundão:
It is held annually in June for three days, transforming the town into a true festival of colour, flavours and entertainment.
The event includes fresh cherry markets, tastings of cherry products, concerts, street entertainment, stalls, crafts, live cooking, a tourist train through the orchards, walking trails and even the chance to sponsor a cherry tree.
The Cherry Festival is considered a celebration of local identity and tradition, attracting thousands of visitors and promoting rural and gastronomic tourism.
In addition to the Cherry Festival, there are other initiatives, such as the Fundão Cherry Route, organised in partnership with CP (Comboios de Portugal), which offers guided tours of the orchards, tastings of regional products and integrated tourist experiences during the cherry season.
Summary
The cherry from Beira Baixa, especially from Cova da Beira, is an excellent product, a symbol of the region, with a centuries-old tradition and great economic and cultural relevance. Local festivals and fairs, such as the Alcongosta Cherry Festival and the Cherry Route, are highlights of the regional calendar, celebrating the fruit, its history and the associated gastronomic richness.
