Far from the touristic Algarve region, in distance and in character, is the beautifully unspoilt northern area of Portugal. Many who hire holiday villas in North Portugal are looking to spend some time away in peaceful surroundings, perhaps enjoying a round of golf, a walk in the lush countryside or a stroll along the invigorating Atlantic coast. People often prefer to rent villas in North Portugal because it is such a beautiful region with rich green rolling fields transforming into rocky mountains as you venture further inland. Vineyards can be seen everywhere you look and sparklingly clear streams flow down from the mountains. It is no wonder that nature lovers often stay in villas in North Portugal.
Walkers and hikers will adore this northern region with its numerous old lanes and pathways that wind their way up into the mountains where gushing waterfalls can be found and spectacular views over green valleys can be admired. Walkers who stay in villas in North Portugal will discover that once they embark on the mountain trails they will only meet a handful of others along the way. As you explore the gorgeous countryside you will find that the local people still employ a very traditional way of life, especially in their farming methods. Terraced valley sides are lined with vineyards and olive groves and interspersed with old stone farmhouses in a charming and idyllic way. Those that stay at villas in North Portugal will not want to miss a visit to Peneda Gerês, Portugal’s only national park, where wildlife lovers will be in their element. Although sightings are rare, visitors may be lucky enough to see wild boar in the woodland or eagles soaring in the skies.
There are many villas in North Portugal that are situated near to the Atlantic coast. Ranging from lively and populated to quiescent and deserted, beaches on this coast stretch for miles and miles and the soft, golden sand is ideal for sunbathers and families. Water sports enthusiasts will be glad to discover that there are plenty of activities to take part in along the coast. A frequent sea breeze means that windsurfing is a popular activity and the sizeable waves are fantastic for surfers. Water sports can also be found at Caniçada, a huge reservoir that is popular with both locals and visitors. Villas in North Portugal are equally great for keen golfers as there are numerous courses located around the region.
For those visiting North Portugal who would like to experience a bit of the region’s history and culture, there are so many delightful towns and villages to explore with museums, old churches, cathedrals and castles with splendid Roman and medieval architecture. At Cabeceiras de Basto there is a spectacular former monastery with a Baroque church and at Póvoa de Lanhoso you will find Monte do Pilar, a magnificent 12th century hilltop castle. If the villa in North Portugal happens to be situated near Vieira do Minho, there is a spectacular medieval bridge, known as the Misarela Bridge, that spans high across a rocky river gorge and is an incredible sight. Legend has it that it was built by the Devil to help a feared bandit escape across the raging river in exchange for his soul. Also in this area is an incredible chapel built beneath a huge granite boulder with a cross fixed on top, this is definitely worth a visit for those staying nearby.
