The history of the country, and her cultural influences, is as rich as her natural landscape is diverse. Portugal was once, of course, a great Empire, colonising large parts of Africa, China, America and Malaysia. Gold from Brazil provided for magnificent Baroque buildings and gilded alter carvings. Exotic fruits and oriental spices changed gastronomic traditions forever, and Oporto and Lisbon are awash with memories of the great explorers, Prince Henry the Navigator and Vasco da Gama.But Portugal was colonised too and there is also a surprising variety of architectural sites, reflecting a succession of occupying civilisations from the Ibero-Celts to the Christian reconquest. Romanesque temples, Baroque castles and numerous hidden churches all bear witness to a colourful past, as do ordinary village houses adorned with beautiful azulejo tiles and topped with Moorish-style chimney pots.
From your base in Viana do Castelo, one of the most beautiful cities in Northern Portugal, head out each day to walk along rivers, along the coast and in the nearby Serra de Arga mountain range.
DEPARTURE MONTHS
Marked by the intense green of its fields and vineyards, the Minho regions' natural landscape is one of enormous beauty and biodiversity. Head from the mountains to the coast on this 7 night holiday.
DEPARTURE MONTHS
Sample the world-class wine and local produce, discover an ancient castle, delightful forests, historical towns, and beautiful beaches overlooking the Atlantic Ocean as you meander across Northern Portugal.
DEPARTURE MONTHS
The Portuguese Camino de Santiago along the coast is one of the most unique and has been one of the main pilgrim routes to Santiago for centuries. Set out on a journey of discovery, not only of the country but of yourself as you follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims and walkers.
DEPARTURE MONTHS
