North of Portugal
Valença do Minho – Vilanova da Cerveira – Caminha – Viana do Castelo – Vila Praia de Ancora – Ponte da Lima
Enter Portugal and soak up its kindness, its culture, its many customs that are so different despite being so near… an itinerary of experiences… a short distance from the Mougás Campsite.
A must
Valença do Miño
A Portuguese border town, famous for the shops inside its Fort. You will enjoy its mosaic architecture, the walk around its walls, the views, the many shops selling all kinds of products from coffee to bed sheets or gold. The locals understand Spanish perfectly since Spain is so close, but use “muito obrigado” if you want to say “thank you.”
Vilanova da Cerveira
The perfect enclave for any possibility: there is an all-day market on Saturday if you want to go shopping, you can go walking and sightseeing in its walled area, the Parque do Castelinho (beside the Miño River) is interesting with water activities for “as crianzas” (the kids). Four km away is the Friendship Bridge that will take you back to Galicia at the end of the visit.
Recommended
Camiña
It is worth seeing this town at the mouth of the Miño River, featuring the first coastal beaches –extensive with few people. It is also well known for its market, which is held on “quarta-feira” (Wednesday). There is a curious ferry, which still operates and crosses over to Spain.
Quite
Vila Praia de Ancora
A summer resort for Portuguese and also Spanish tourists. Although the sea is rough most of the season, it is worth visiting its beaches, especially Moledo. At the “portinho” (port), you can see fishermen busy at work.
Awesome
Viana do Castelo
Apart from visiting its old town to enjoy its monuments, the cathedral and the memories of better times, we should not miss the experience of going up to the Basilica of Santa Luzia in the funicular railway; once again the views will take our breath away, as will its cake shops, which are absolutely “imperdoávels” (unforgivable).
Recommended
Ponte da Lima
It is considered Portugal’s oldest town, featuring rustic and medieval architecture. This charming town is worth a leisurely stroll to visit the theme park called Parque do Arnado, a botanical garden, which is reached by crossing a beautiful medieval bridge (after which the town is called) over the Lima River. You must try the cream cakes, called “Pastéis de Belem,” here or anywhere throughout the itinerary.
Taste
La Fortaleza Restaurant (Valença)
Try the rice and seafood, any of the cod dishes and “carne alentejana” (meat and clams). A classic but the menu is always good.
Quinta do Praço Restaurant (Valença)
Committed to modern cuisine, which does not abound in Portugal for the average diner. Appropriate prices for its creativity and fine ingredients. Magnificent location in a “Quinta” (manor) featuring a lake and good views.
Casa das Velhas Restaurant (Vila Nova de Cerveira)
Apart from the stunning views, the kid and cod with “broa” (cornbread) will amaze you. Worthwhile even though it is a bit out of the way.
A Petisqueira Restaurant (Camiña)
They serve traditional Portuguese food at a cheap price; the service stands out.
Praia de Ancora Restaurant (Áncora)
We will find a lot of sardines in Portugal, but the ones that are served here are especially good, perhaps because of the “espeto” (skewer). The “espetada de carne” (meat skewers) are also tasty. One of the many that we come across along the beach. Here you have good food at a good price.
O Brasao Restaurant ( Ponte de Lima)
Aqui probamos Bistec o Brasao, preparado con hierbas y vino en el punto perfecto como todas sus carnes. Valoramos la atención, el esmero y el espacio de juegos para niños. Muchas otras opciones de cocina tradicional y buenos precios.