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Discover Northern Portugal…
Minho is Portugal’s best-kept secret: an intoxicating mix of food, wine and history. It is the greenest corner of the country: a patchwork of mountain meadows and terraced vineyards threaded with lush river valleys. The fruits of the land are turned into the region’s famed vinho verde by local wine-makers in adegas, traditional wine estates tucked into the folds of the hills.
The rugged Costa Verde, or Green Coast, wraps around the region in all its wave-lashed glory. It’s not just about scenic beauty though: Minho is the birthplace of the Portuguese kingdom, with its rich history etched into its old cities.
Below are our pick of some of our favourite places to visit and properties close-by…
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Povoa de Lanhoso, a small town near Braga, has for many hundreds of years produced some of the best gold filigree in Portugal. In nearby Travassos there is a gold museum housed in one of the old workshops which are still in full production. Povoa de Lanhoso also has one of the smallest castles in Portugal, well worth a visit despite its size. The town has numerous restaurants which showcase the variety of regional dishes for which the Braga area is renowned. Nearby towns are Braga, Barcelos and the old town of Guimaraes while a short distance to the north lies the Cavado river with river beaches and beautiful walks through the wooded banks.
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This ancient town, the oldest in Portugal, has so much to offer its visitors: it has the largest concentration of Baroque manor houses in the country and the largest market too, held fortnightly on the banks of the River Lima. Its history dates back to Roman times, as does the bridge from which the town takes its name. There are many attractions here including the annual Garden Festival, canoeing on the river or cycling and walking on the ‘Ecovia’ which runs along the river banks to an established nature reserve.
Although there is always something new to discover in Ponte de Lima and there is nothing more relaxing than taking a coffee in the old square in front of the river while watching a band playing, there are nevertheless other nearby places to visit including the walled town of Valença, Ponte de Barca, Guimaraes and the stunning National Park of Peneda Geres. The extensive sandy beaches of the coast are within easy reach too.
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Moledo beach has long been a favourite choice for politicians and stars of the stage and screen. The long beach is popular with surfers and families alike and has a sprinkling of cafes and restaurants along the front. There are views towards Spain and over the island of Insua which contains a defensive fort, although the building was originally built as a convent.
The old village of Moledo, which can be reached via a bridge across the coastal road, is a very attractive and traditional community with friendly neighbours and some interesting buildings. In the heart of the village is a shop/café which, though small, seems to stock everything you could possibly need. Nearby, a family run restaurant serves excellent food at a very reasonable price.
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Vintage Travel | Milkmaid House | Rampton End | Willingham | Cambridge | England | CB24 5JB |
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What is Minho known for in Portugal?
Minho is celebrated as Portugal’s most verdant region, distinguished by its patchwork of mountain meadows, terraced vineyards, and lush river valleys. It’s renowned for producing vinho verde, a unique type of wine, thanks to its abundance of local winemakers and traditional wine estates, known as adegas, nestled in the hills.
What can visitors expect to experience along the Costa Verde?
The Costa Verde, or Green Coast, is characterized by its rugged, wave-lashed shores that encapsulate the region’s natural beauty. Beyond picturesque landscapes, Minho’s Costa Verde is deeply intertwined with Portuguese history, housing ancient cities that trace back to the birth of the Portuguese kingdom.
What are some must-visit places near Povoa de Lanhoso?
Visitors to Povoa de Lanhoso can explore Braga, Barcelos, and the historic town of Guimaraes. The region is also close to the Cavado river, known for its river beaches and serene walks through wooded banks. It offers diverse experiences, from enjoying regional dishes in local restaurants to exploring small castles and gold museums.
What makes Ponte de Lima a special destination in Northern Portugal?
Ponte de Lima stands out as Portugal’s oldest town, offering an array of Baroque manor houses, a large traditional market, and a rich Roman heritage. Highlights include annual events like the Garden Festival, outdoor activities such as canoeing on the River Lima, and exploring the ‘Ecovia’ for cycling and walking adventures.
What attractions does Moledo beach offer its visitors?
Moledo beach is favored by both surfers and families for its extensive sandy expanse and welcoming atmosphere. It boasts scenic views towards Spain, charming cafes, and restaurants along the beachfront, and an insight into traditional Portuguese village life within old Moledo community, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
What types of accommodation are recommended near these destinations?
For those visiting these regions, accommodations range from traditional houses fitting small families or couples like Casa do Lagar and Casa Carvoeiro, to larger properties such as Quinta do Ouro and Casa do Prado, suitable for larger groups or families looking for a comfortable stay amidst Northern Portugal’s enchanting landscapes.
