Off the beaten track and away from the crowds, it’s time to hit the road and discover a new Portugal.
The colder months seem to call for homely things, whether it’s cosy mealtimes or snug evenings by the fire. That said, there’s no reason why these experiences can’t be enjoyed somewhere new. Winter is the perfect time for couples and families to take a road trip and discover the most beautiful and authentic places in Northern Portugal. You can make things even more special by staying at the historic Pousadas de Portugal, which are housed in wonderful palaces, convents, castles and monasteries, where guests are given a traditional welcome that honours each region’s roots.
Viana do Castelo
Let’s start at the coast before making our way inland. Situated by the sea, Viana do Castelo is well known for its traditional sweethearts’ handkerchiefs and colourful lanchas poveiras fishing boats. The town’s picturesque historic centre is well worth discovering on foot, offering ever-changing vistas from the highest points. If you want a hotel in Viana do Castelo, you can’t do better than the century-old Pousada Viana do Castelo, which boasts a spectacular panoramic view that stretches from the Santa Luzia Sanctuary to the Atlantic.
Gerês
The winding roads lead to breathtaking landscapes, where visitors can explore trails, natural hot springs, the various viewpoints and the region’s fine serrana cuisine. At the day’s end, what better than a well-deserved rest at your local hotel in Gerês. Discover the stunning mountain and river views at the Pousada Caniçada-Gerês, which feels more like a cosy chalet. With its dark woods, warm colours and crackling fireplaces, the ambience is as simple as it is welcoming.
Amares
Next, we head for Amares, just a stone’s throw from the town of Braga. A region of winding rivers and countryside, this place offers an authentic rural experience, including the chance to try the most traditional local dishes, like rojões à minhota (pork chunks) or papas de sarrabulho (different meats cooked in pig’s blood). For those wishing to stay overnight, the hotel most loyal to its origins is probably Pousada Mosteiro Amares, formerly a Cistercian monastery. The building was restored by the prize-winning architect Eduardo Souto Moura, who decided to use the existing ruins to create a brilliant balance between the impressive structure and a certain minimalism.
Guimarães
We end at the beginning, in the town of Guimarães, known as the cradle of the nation. Visitors can walk around the castle and historic centre, which has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, not forgetting the church of São Miguel and the Paço dos Duques de Bragança (Ducal Palace). For an overnight stay, the Pousada Mosteiro de Guimarães is an outstanding option. If we consider Guimarães as Portugal’s birthplace, then this monastery was born when the country was a mere 10-year-old. Portugal’s independence dates back to 1143 and the original construction, set on the Penha slope, was assigned to the Augustinian canons regular the following decade. The building was restored as a pousada by architect Fernando Távora in the 1980s, retaining the original cloisters, corridors and gardens, which provide an unforgettable experience for any visitor.
Winter road trip
Set out to discover the most beautiful and authentic places in the North.