Great Things to Do Near Casa Monte Santo Antão
Pop over the border to Spain for a day...
A great benefit of being close to the border means that you can take in a wide range of delights on either side of the Minho River. The International Bridge of friendship connects Vila Nova de Cerveira with Goián in Galicia, across the Spanish border. Alternatively, you can take the car ferry from Caminha to A Guarda, this most southerly part of Galicia boasts some lovely beaches and some fantastic restaurants.
Visit Guimerães, the medieval streets are full of charm...
Known as the birthplace of Portuguese identity, the country’s first administrative seat was established here by Henry of Burgundy and it was also the birthplace of Portugal’s first King, Alfonso I. Don’t miss the Castle complex and the stunning Paço dos Duques (Palace of the dukes of Braganza). A UNESCO world heritage site and European Capital of Culture in 2012.
Don't miss out on trying the local cuisine...
Such as Bacalhau, Arroz de pato, Francesinha, Cataplana, Pastel de Nata and some delicious Vinho Verde wine.
Spend the day relaxing in the sunshine by the pool...
Sit back and relax with a book and enjoy the pretty surroundings.
Admire the stunning panoramic views...
Watch the sunset from the terrace whilst you enjoy dinner.
Watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean...
Enjoy a drink on the roof terrace at Bar Paredão 476 at Moledo Beach.
Learn about life in the Minho..
Situated at the Castelinho Park in Vila Nova de Cerveira, The Aquamuseu do Rio Minho gives a fascinating insight into the wildlife in and around the Minho River. The Aquarium takes you on a journey via a series of tanks that plots the river’s course from high in the mountains of Lugo to where it flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Caminha.
Visit the port wine lodges during a day out in Porto...
Walk across on the upper level of the iconic Dom Luis iron bridge and either amble down through the windy streets or take the cable car for fantastic views across the Douro River towards the colourful ‘Bairro Ribeira’ neighbourhood. At Vila Nova de Gaia you’ll find the lodges of familiar names such as Taylors and Grahams as well as more local brands such as Ferreira and Calém.
Explore Porto...
Porto is a fascinating and atmospheric city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site to boot! An easy transport option is to drive to the Metro station at Póvoa de Varzim. From there, take the Metro to São Bento Station in the city centre. This is recommended as parking can be quite difficult in the centre of Porto and there is often a lot of traffic.
Cool off at Castelinho Park in Vila Nova de Cerveira...
A perfect place to cool off on a hot summer’s day, the Castelinho Park is situated next to the Minho River and contains a wide range of water features to splash about in. You’ll also find the Aquarium, sports courts and a mini golf course. There are various play areas, benches and a few cafés in the park making it the ideal place to relax and unwind for the whole family.
Walk in the footsteps of the pilgrims up the steps of the 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 penitents climb up the steps on their knees.
Visit historic Braga, the third largest city in Portugal...
Known as the city that will get to heaven first due to the abundance of religious and historical architecture. Take time to wander the streets and stop off at the many charming cafes surrounding the cathedral. For a spot of retail therapy, head to Braga Parc shopping centre.
Go to the opera in July, when the Ponte de Lima Summer Festival of Opera and Classical Music is held...
Something that is fast becoming one of Europe's top cultural events. Performances take place in several venues throughout the town including historic manor houses, local churches and the Teatro Diogo Bernardes, a 19th century theatre in the historic centre.
Visit the charming fortress town of Valença...
Travel through the ancient archway in the impressive city walls to discover a myriad of cobbled streets and a delightful range of local shops selling the beautifully embroidered towels and linen for which the town is famous.
Views of this beautiful coastline don't come much better than those afforded at Casa Monte Santo Antão...
Make some time to sit with a drink and take it all in.
Shop for ceramics at the colourful Thursday market held in Barcelos...
Taking place in Campo da República (also known as Campo da Feira), it is the largest market in Portugal and one of the largest in all of Europe. You’ll be sure to find the 'Galo de Barcelos', the small cockerel which is the town’s emblem.
Spend a day in Ponte de Lima, one of Portugal's oldest towns...
Spreading lazily along the tree-lined banks of the River Lima, this is a beautiful town with fine buildings and pretty cobbled squares. Visit on a Monday morning and you may be fortunate enough to witness the local market, which is held on the sandy river beach every other week.
Nothing but nature in the National Park of Peneda-Geres. Enjoy the many hiking trails and admire the wildlife...
Drive for miles through the, largely undiscovered, beautiful mountain scenery of this stunning area of natural beauty. Whilst you are unlikely to meet another car, watch out for the mountain goats, who have right of way!
Hire surfboards at Afife beach...
Spend a day in the water on this fantastic stretch of unspoilt coastline, a much sought after spot for keen surfers.
For fantastic views over the historic port of Viana do Castelo take the funicular to the church of Santa Luzia...
Climb the dome and look out from the very very top. Then head into the town and wander around the fascinating embroidery shops for which the town is famous.
