Living In Northern Portugal

This is not an easy task, with the exception of Number one. All five trips are within an hours drive of Braga.

1. Geres. Pendel-Geres National Park, a breathtaking gem, captures the heart with its stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and countless hiking trails that beckon adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Just a 40-minute drive northeast of Braga, the journey unfolds as picturesque rural towns and magnificent mountain vistas emerge, transforming each moment into a picturesque prelude to this natural wonderland. Immerse yourself in the lush green hills, charming granite villages, and meandering mountain roads; soon, you will be enveloped by towering peaks, crystalline rivers, and enchanting forests, creating a serene sanctuary that invites you to pause, reflect, and truly absorb the beauty surrounding you. As the only national park in Portugal, it encompasses an astonishing 700 sq kilometers of unspoiled wilderness. Here, every step allows you to delve deeper into nature’s artistry and discover the rich biodiversity thriving within its borders, rendering it the perfect destination for both exploration and relaxation. Whether you find yourself trekking along its verdant trails, indulging in a delightful picnic by the river, or simply basking in the awe-inspiring views that shift with the seasons, this park presents an extraordinary experience year-round. Wild Garrano horses roam freely, while waterfalls cascade into tranquil pools, their gentle sounds harmonizing with the tranquil embrace of the great outdoors. Awe-inspiring hikes and breathtaking panoramas, along with charming villages gracing the landscape, craft unforgettable memories for every traveler. We spent a blissful day unwinding on one of the charming sandy inlets, swimming in the river, deeply rejuvenated by the nurturing natural surroundings and the soothing influence of water. Though there’s an abundance more to discover, that adventure awaits another day. On our drive home, we paused to explore the Pousada Mosteiro Amares—a luxurious restoration of a 12th-century monastery, a marvel of architecture and rich history! When we inquired about room rates, we were pleasantly surprised to find them at least a third lower than anticipated, making it an exceptional value for a couple of nights in a historical setting with breathtaking grounds embraced by nature. Prices fluctuate with the seasons and years, so we refrain from listing them in our reviews, preferring to highlight the enchanting experiences that await visitors. The locals are incredibly warm and welcoming, often sharing stories about their deep-rooted connection to the land. They rightly believe they are blessed to inhabit this spectacular landscape, captivating the hearts of all who visit, inviting them to forge memories that endure a lifetime and fostering a profound appreciation for this magical region.
2. Guimaraes. Guimaraes, with a population of 156,790, is this super cool historic city just a quick 30-minute drive southeast of Braga. It’s got some seriously well-preserved medieval buildings and an iconic 10th-century castle that really shows off Portugal’s awesome history and architecture. We’ve actually been there twice, and the second time we hit the jackpot with a medieval festival weekend that was really well organized. As always in Portugal, there were tons of fun things for the kids to do, with loads of engaging activities to keep them entertained. The vibe during the festival was electric—bringing together locals and tourists for a unique mingling of cultures that really opened our eyes to the city’s heritage. You could hear medieval music wafting through the old town on every street, creating a magical atmosphere that resonated with visitors of all ages, letting us soak up the colorful performances. It felt like we were transported back in time, diving right into the culture and traditions of yesteryears in a way that was super enjoyable and educational. The cobbled streets, decorated stalls, and performers in their costumes made everything feel so authentic, turning our time in Guimaraes into an unforgettable adventure filled with exciting surprises around every corner. Even the staff at restaurants and bars were dressed up in medieval gear—which is something we’ve noticed in Portugal; they really go all out for themed events, ensuring every small detail adds to the fun atmosphere. Plus, there’s no crazy entrance fees or inflated prices just because a festival is going on; most kid activities are either free or really cheap, which is a huge win for families looking to enjoy the day. The mix of sights and sounds, combined with the friendly hospitality of the locals, made our visit truly special, creating awesome memories that we’ll cherish forever and have great stories to share later. And wandering through those narrow alleyways finding hidden spots like artisan shops and cute cafes added another fun twist to the experience, making every visit to Guimaraes feel personal and unique, reinforcing our love for this amazing city that just keeps capturing our hearts.
3. Barcelos. Just a hop, skip, and a 45-minute drive (or the time it takes to binge your favorite podcast episode—no judgment) from Braga, you’ll stumble upon this quirky little town of 27,000 residents, all scratching their heads about why they’re living in a place that throws the largest market party in Europe every Thursday. Guess what day we plopped down there? Picture a bazaar so lively that even your grandma would be impressed—local artisans parading their crafts like models on a catwalk, fresh produce looking like it just finished a spa day, and tourists practically throwing themselves at the famous colorful Portuguese chicken. Seriously, it’s like the town’s number one celebrity! And if you happen to wander along the Camino de Santiago trail, you’ll catch a glimpse of pilgrims lost in deep thought, trying to solve life’s riddles while expertly dodging poultry that seem to be on a mission. Oh, and speaking of missions, this town’s history is as rich as the frosting on a triple-layer chocolate cake—so dig in and enjoy the delightful chaos!
4. Esposende is a charming city located just 55 minutes west of Braga on the coast, with a welcoming community of around 34,400 residents. This town, part of the historic Camino de Santiago trail, warmly invites countless pilgrims and visitors each year, offering a peaceful retreat for all. We spent a lovely day on the beach, soaking in the sun and listening to the gentle, soothing sound of the waves while nestled on the soft sand dunes. The area holds a special place in the hearts of the surfing community and is particularly adored by kite surfers. Its consistent waves and favorable wind conditions create an inviting atmosphere, making it a desirable year-round escape on the coast. Esposende is treasured as one of the best places to learn to surf, thanks to its uncrowded beaches and forgiving beach breaks, which nurture both beginners and seasoned surfers alike in their journeys.
5. Ponte de Lima. A mere 40-minute drive northwest of Braga, yet it feels like stepping into a hidden gem. With a diminutive population of just 2,800, the municipality boasts a surprising 42,000 residents. We took our time to wander through the charming villages that lie beyond the town, and we were absolutely blown away by their breathtaking beauty. Sure, it’s rural, but don’t let that fool you—these houses are far from ordinary. The locals? Warm and friendly, just as you’d expect. This town flaunts a rich history, dating back 3,000 years. And every second Monday, a behemoth of a country market takes over, one of the largest in Portugal. Somehow, Jayne orchestrated our trip to align perfectly with the market day—classic move! The market sprawls down the riverside in the old town, inviting and alive. Ponte de Lima is the smallest town we’ve ventured into, but it’s undeniably worth the jaunt; the little villages we stumbled upon on our way home were the cherry on top of an unforgettable experience.