Trás-os-Montes - the undiscovered Portugal
Start your discovery trip in Vila Real. Located on the banks of a tributary of the Douro River, the city once gained importance in the 16th and 17th centuries when noblemen settled there and built palaces. Today, the city is particularly known as a university town and therefore attracts many young people. There are a number of great sights to discover: the Palace of Mateus, the botanical garden of the university or the archaeological museum are just a few of them.
In the far north-east of Portugal lies the city of Bragança, which welcomes you with its medieval charm. Here you should definitely visit the Castelo de Bragança. The castle was built in the 13th century and today there is a military museum inside, which exhibits weapons and armour from medieval Portugal. The Castelo thus allows visitors to immerse themselves in Portugal's military past in a particularly impressive way. You should also climb the tower of the Castelo to get a magnificent view over the city.
Or visit Celeirós do Douro, a small village known throughout the country for its excellent wines. The village is one of the most traditional in the municipality and offers a beautiful view over the valley of the Pinhão River due to its location above the valley. The village is also home to architecturally unique mansions. Celeirós do Douro is only about 12 km from Pinhão, which is a good place for a day trip. Stay in a lovely holiday flat on the slopes of the river Douro.
In the heart of Trás os Montes you can also visit the Montesinho Nature Park. The nature park, near Bragança, is perfect to relax and enjoy the quiet, unspoilt nature. You will also find colourful wildlife: Iberian wolves, foxes, golden eagles and many more.
The great nature of the region - vineyards, forests, valleys or orchards - can be ideally enjoyed in a beautiful manor house, a country hotel or a lovely holiday home set in an authentic winery.