The Magic of Northern Portugal

Quietly tucked away in the northern part of Portugal lies both my heart and the Portuguese region of Minho. It's a part of the country that is humbly bursting with tradition and culture that bleeds out of it's small winding streets and grandiose feasts. A region that is the famously known as the birthplace of the delicious Portuguese soup, caldo verde, a creamy potato soup with floating strings of chopped kale and savory bits of chorizo. With some really energetic feasts, cute city centers and the only national park in Portugal, the Minho has a lot to fall in love with.

Braga

My journey began in Braga, the historical capital of the Minho province, and the third largest city in Portugal. Within this city lies the yolk of the old historic city. A cutely put together labyrinth of shops, bakeries, and churches, radiating the most relaxing and charming energy a city can. A minimum of two nights is necessary to explore Braga. Most travelers make it a day trip, but I would recommend letting yourself steep in the infusion of the Minho. Braga POP Hostel is a great place to rest your head. Helena Gomes, the hostel manager and owner of the quirky, comical, and comfortable Braga POP Hostel will give you the best recommendations that will be sure to make your stay here the most enjoyable and entertaining. She was raised in Braga and I learned after the first recommendation to not question her advice. Gomes, recommends visiting the Bom Jesus Cathedral, one of Braga's many churches, even if it's only for the cathedral's artistic value, and the Jardim de Santa Barbara, a romantic garden that is enjoyable at any hour of the day. Braga has a lot going on throughout the year, Easter sees one of the biggest, if not the biggest celebrations in Portugal, filled with many parades and jubilant concerts. Also popular are Roman Week (May), Encontros da Imagem, a photography international festival (September) and Semibreve, an electronic music festival (October).

A trip to Braga wouldn't be complete with out delicious foods, wine and deserts. With a number of great places to eat and drink, you will be very busy in Braga. But make sure to ask Helena what she recommends, she'll give you the best recommendation based on what you're feeling.

Viana do Castelo

Leaving the third largest city for the smaller towns of the Minho, you would probably expect to find an even more mellow Portugal and typically that's true. Except if you're visiting Viana do Castelo during the festival of Nossa Senhora d'Agonia, Our Lady of Agony.

Expect to hear loud emotional drumming, see a number of lively parades and hear traditional Portuguese music playing in the distance. It's a feast that attracts thousands of visitors, from near and far. It's colorful, jubilant, and cultural soaked festivities are something to see. If you're looking for a place to stay, make sure you book in advance. I would recommend camping in front of the youth hostel, with the many other Portuguese visitors. Spend your money on the bifanas, Minho scarves and beautiful artisanal jewelry instead.

Geres

After all of the partying and city seeing, it's nice to get away from it all. In the Minho region is the only national park in Portugal, Peneda-Geres. Camping, hiking, and swimming are all popular activities, worth leaving behind castles, churches and parties for a day or so. The clear water in the natural pools are extremely tempting, even if the weather is not favorable. Before entering the Park, make sure to talk to a local about the entrance requirements, as I believe the permitting requirements have gone through some changes over the years. I believe it's free for groups less than six or so, but it's always good to get the correct information from the locals.

There are several tour companies that can lead you through the park as well. Three-year-old Porto based adventure company, Oporto Adventure Tours, offers a number of adventure sports including hiking, canyoning, kayaking and rock climbing in the Peneda-Geres National Park. There tours offer hours of nature, with guides that are locals, biologists and nature lovers. Try their kayaking tour, for a day filled with hiking, swimming in natural pools and kayaking. Check out their website for more information and pick-up locations.

All in all, the Minho is magical. Discover it for yourself and maybe you will fall as head-over-heels with it as I did.

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