Great Things to Do Near Casa do Eido da Devesa
In July visit the Ponte de Lima Summer Festival of Opera and Classical Music...
This is fast becoming one of Europe's top cultural events. Performances take place in several venues including historic manor houses, local churches and the Teatro Diogo Bernardes, a 19th century theatre in Ponte de Lima.
Ponte da Barca is a great starting point to further explore the Peneda do Gerês Natural Park...
From here, scenic drives lead to the old villages of Lindoso with its Castle, Mezio with its natural Lagoons and Soajo with the typical 'Espigueiros' where locals keep their corn.
Walk in the footsteps of the pilgrims
up the steps of Bom Jesus do Monte, 3kms east of Braga. Set in the woods high above the city, this glorious ornamental stairway of granite is a monumental homage and is the object of devoted pilgrimage, where pentitents climb up the steps on their knees.
Visit Braga for historic architecture, great food and retail therapy...
Spend a day admiring the architecture, enjoying traditional meals in the many restaurants around the city, and for shops, head to Braga Parc shopping centre.
Browse the stalls of the largest market in Portugal, held on Thursdays in Barcelos...
The town is the birthplace of the 'Galo de Barcelos', the small cockerel, which is widely represented in traditional ceramic throughout the country and will no doubt be found on one of the stalls.
Follow the Vinho verde wine trail...
Along the banks of the Minho Valley which passes between undulating hills covered with the vines which produce the lightly sparkling and very tasty wine of the region.
Visit the port wine lodges...
At Vila Nova de Gaia, just the other side of the Douro river from Porto. There are numerous lodges here, including Taylors, Sandeman's and Grahams.
Set aside a day to visit the World Heritage city of Porto...
Take a while to absorb the sights and sounds of this unique city then visit the caves where port is left to age to sample for yourself this world-famous drink. You could also visit the Planetarium to plot some of those stars you have been watching!
Spend a day exploring the southern coast of Spain...
Take the car ferry from Vila Nova de Cerveira to Goyan in Galicia, Spain. This little ferry drifts across the water every 30 minutes and is a fun way to reach this delightful corner of Spain, which boasts some splendid beaches and superb seafood restaurants.
Explore the charming fortress town of Valenca...
On the border and only a short drive north of the house. Drive through the ancient archway that leads the way through the impressive town walls to discover cobbled streets and a delightful range of local shops selling the beautifully embroidered towels and linen for which the town is famous.
Soak up fantastic views of the historic port of Viana do Castelo...
By taking the funicular to the church of Santa Luzia, climb the dome and look out from the very very top
Visit the tiny harbour at Vila Praia de Ancora...
For a gastronomic feast, be sure to buy some of the fresh fish you will see being landed there to cook on your barbecue at home.
Hire surfboards at Afife beach...
Just a half hour drive from the house. Then spend a day in the water on this fantastic stretch of unspoilt coastline, a much sought after spot for keen surfers.
Spend a day lazing on the sands on the beach of the chic coastal village of Moledo...
When you feel the need for some refreshment, a number of smart snack bars lie just behind the beach and form the ideal setting for having a drink whilst looking out to sea and watching the world go by.
Play Golf at the Axis Golf club, an 18 hole course in Ponte de Lima...
Afterwards, enjoy dinner at the excellent onsite restaurant.
Visit the natural and wonderful landscapes of the Peneda-Geres National Park...
Whilst exploring the very north of the region, visit the Peneda-Geres National Park, an area of stunning natural beauty. There are numerous hiking trails to explore, wildlife to spot and waterfalls to dip your toes in.
Stroll along the riverbank in Ponte de Lima For those who like to keep their feet dry there are paths stretching up and down the riverbank...
Walk from the old Roman bridge down to the new crossing, cross and walk back into Ponte de Lima along the other river bank. Stop for tea before re-crossing the ancient bridge back to the car and home again.
Take a picnic to Ponte de Lima and park your car under shady vines on the north shore of the river...
Here you can barbecue and picnic, swim from the river beach and hire a canoe for a lazy paddle.
