Between the serenity of Amares and the natural grandeur of Gerês, there are two havens that seem to be designed for couples.
There are places that seem to be designed to slow time and bring people together. The historic and charming Pousadas de Portugal provide a selection of perfect scenarios to celebrate a beautiful, relaxed and authentic Valentine’s Day. Of the more than 30 options available, two provide particularly attractive breaks: Pousada Caniçada-Gerês and Pousada Mosteiro Amares.
Pousada Mosteiro Amares
A few kilometres from Braga and Gerês, the Pousada Mosteiro Amares is a sophisticated and romantic retreat. Set in what was first a 12th-Cistercian monastery, which was restored by the architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, this historic hotel in Amares mixes centuries-old walls with minimalist design, which enhances the light and the serenity in the different places. It’s the type of place where echoes lend a sense of peace.
The rooms retain their monastic soul, although with distinctly modern-day comfort. The cloisters invite long and peaceful strolls, especially in the late afternoon. The pousada restaurant, which is found in the old convent kitchen, is another attraction: with its intimate atmosphere it serves regional cuisine with elegance, making the Valentines’ Day dinners something intimate and special.
Exploring the region, setting off from Amares, is also something worth doing as a couple. Those passionate about heritage can also visit the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary or the Tibães Monastery, both a few minutes’ drive and perfect for a cultural morning. For those who prefer nature, the river Cávado offers quiet walks by the water. During colder days, a visit to the local caves to taste Minho’s wines adds a gastronomic hint to the getaway. As night falls, what better than returning to the pousada and soaking up the monastery’s serene vibe.
Pousada Caniçada-Gerês
In the heart of the mountains, with a stunning view over the river Cávado, the Pousada Caniçada-Gerês is a veritable refuge suspended in the landscape, where nature and silence create an atmosphere right for a restful stay. The Pousada Caniçada-Gerês is perfectly placed in its surroundings. At this hotel in Peneda-Gerês National Park, guests wake up and admire the misty mountains, before having breakfast with a panoramic view and an evening that finishes around the fireplace.
The interiors feature warm woods, with traditional touches and windows that overlook the mountain – the ideal ambience for those seeking peace and serene conversation. The outdoor pool, dormant in the winter, becomes a romantic and contemplative scenario.
Not far from the pousada, there are plenty of possibilities for the romantically inclined. One of the more special things involves visiting the Gerês viewpoints – the Pedra Bela one is a classic. More adventurous couples can walk small trails, like the Cascata do Arado Trail, which is accessible and perfect for a more active morning. Lobios’s hot pools are a must for the sensory experience they provide, especially in the winter. Driving on the sinuous mountain roads, stopping off at different villages like Pitões das Júnias or Fafião, adds a road trip vibe to the break. At sunset, there’s no better and more comfortable place than the Pousada Caniçada-Gerês lounge, with its fireplace making everything cosy. Six metres tall, with huge windows, the lounge area is the perfect spot to see the colours that form and fade in the sky, as night falls.
