Minho, Portugal

Hidden away in the north of Portugal lies an unparalleled natural paradise, Serra da Cabreira (Cabreira Mountain).  With a lush mountain landscape and sublime panoramic views, is an obligatory passage for those visiting Vieira do Minho and home to picturesque villages, lakes, rivers, waterfalls and trails.

LUGAR DE S.PEDRO, ROSSAS

Lugar de S. Pedro is a small village surrounded by the mountains, tiny roads, stone houses and a local coffee shop, Café Duarte (a big thank you to Maria Sameiro, the owner, for all the tips and to make us feel like part of the community). The nearest local shops are in Rossas but if you need a supermaket, it's best to drive to Vieira do Minho, about half hour away.
Nestled on the banks of Rio Ave (river) in a very secluded spot, is Moínho da Rã, a restored ancient watermill and our home during the holiday. We called it our little bit of paradise, with the constant sound of the water, and "our" private pool and waterfalls. 

Moinho da Rã (watermill)

  Ponte de S. Pedro (ancient bridge)

Praia Fluvial de S. Pedro (River beach)

Just 2 minutes walk from the watermill, above the bridge, this small river beach was our favourite place to swim. The water is so clear and refreshing, and very safe.


The mill's backyard

Right next to the river, this secluded garden is perfect to enjoy a meal outdoors, read a book or just relax at the sound of the waterfalls.

The village


 "our private waterfall" in video

PRAIA FLUVIAL DO OURAL (OURAL DAM)

A gem in the heart of Cabreira mountains and a perfect place to spend a day with family, this leisure area is equiped with several barbecue areas, tables and benches, piped water and a small coffee shop.
The dam is fed by the "levada da víbora" and you can enjoy a swim while surrounded by the beautiful landscape.


RIO CALDO, GERÊS

Rio Caldo is a is a truly enchanting small village located on the banks of the Caniçada Dam and it is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and almost 700 hectares of navigable water.
Due to its impressive landscapes and conditions for water sports, it is considered the centre of aquatic sports of the Peneda Gerês Natural Park.
It's also home to a very pretty Marina, lots of restaurants and coffee shops and a nice places to swim.



ERMAL

With a serene atmosphere and surrounded by green lanscapes, Praia Fluvial Ilha do Ermal (Ermal island river beach ) is a great place to spend the day, swim in the calm shallow waters and enjoy the multiple water sports they offer.

There's a couple of small coffee shops, public toilets and you a good place to do wild camping.



CAPELA DA SENHORA DA LAPA

This chapel, built in 1694, stands out for its originality in having been built inside a rock.  It is located on Penamourinho Mountain, near Veira do Minho, and offers a panoramic and serene view of the region.
With stunning views overlooking a rural area and surprisingly quiet, you can enjoy the short trails and walkways on the many boulders behind the chapel.
Parking is available as well as picnic tables.











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