Why move to Viana Do Castelo
Not many people make it this far north, making Viana do Castelo perfect for anyone looking for an intimate location within easy reach of Spain.
The district’s capital city, Viana do Castelo, should be your first stop in this area, positioned at the mouth of the Rio Lima and often described with the words ‘Entre o mar, o rio e a montanha’ (between the sea, the river and the mountains). You’ll get the most complete view of the varied landscape from Monte de Santa Luzia, including fine sandy beaches and verdant, hilly countryside.
This charming city is rich in tradition which stems from its historical importance as a point of departure during the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Viana do Castelo remains a lively fishing port where different architectural styles, including Manueline, Baroque and Renaissance houses sit alongside more contemporary design. For most visitors the main attractions are the old winding streets lined with shops and a thriving central square.
Just south of the city take a ferry the short distance across the estuary to the unspoiled beach at Praia de Cabedelo. Head north and the sands stretch almost to the border with Spain. Once here you’ll want to visit three impressive frontier towns. Caminha is an ancient fortress that nestles beside the river Minho and offers views over the border. Valenca do Minho sits on a hilltop and is sandwiched between twin double walled forts shaped like crowns. Visit its cobbled medieval alleys and you can pick up local crafts including linen and pottery. Finally to Monaco, a remote, charming location with attractive main squares surrounded by old houses and planted with chestnut trees, flowers and mosaics.
Along the river Lima are two other towns worth your attention. Ponte de Lima is named after the surviving Roman bridge and is an attractive location particularly worth a visit on market day which dates back to 1125AD. Come during September for the annual Feiras Novas, a mixture of religious celebration and folklore festival. Another bridge awaits at Ponte da Barca, this one from the 15th century. In this tranquil location you’ll find arcades and mansions as well as a riverside park perfect for picnics.
Ponte da Barca is a good base from which to explore the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Geres, one of the country’s most beautiful natural environments. There are over 720 square miles to explore with two mountain ranges, valleys of pine, oak and yew and the occasional sighting of rare eagles and wolves. Should you wish to stay here, the village of Soajo is a fine, traditional location surrounded by terraced hills.
Travel from the capital is convenient, with a motorway and train line linking you with Porto to the south and Valencia in the north. Take your time when travelling to more remote locations however, as the roads are a little bumpy with views that are definitely not to be missed.