What to Do

Start of day

There's no rush to get anywhere on Saturday — start the day with a swim in the pool. Ten minutes of activity and then to breakfast. Today we suggest you don't go far; there is plenty to do around Quinta.

After breakfast

We highly recommend a walk through our lovely village towards Bertiandos — Walk #6. The whole trail from gate to gate takes five hours, so if you don't want a long route, head ahead to the Lagoas Area and take a small or large circular trail (route #7 or #8), which will take 1–3 hours.

On your return

If you want a massage or sauna, it's best to book in advance when you're back — we'll heat it up just in time. Cool off in the pool, then head over to the historic town of Ponte de Lima for an evening stroll and dinner.

Morning

After a leisurely breakfast, take a swing in the lower garden. At 12 pm, our yoga coach invites you to an outdoor class in the gallery of the main house. After yoga, make your way to Praia de Cabedelo — the journey by car takes about 30 minutes.

At the beach

If you want to eat in the shade at a table, book in advance at the beginning of the route along the beach (+351 934 606 911). We recommend the excellent sangria and the burgers — the menu isn't very extensive but it's high quality. Kids love it here.

The way back

The way back can be slow — on a forest road and on bridges along the dunes, or again on the sand. Along the way you can watch kite surfers or even take a lesson. There are two surf schools along the way; you can book by calling +351 258 028 867 (dpc-viana.com).

Day trip

You've spent two days on the beach and in the forest — now it's time to do some travelling in the surrounding area. We suggest a circular route through Valença (30 minutes by car towards the Spanish border), an old fortress reconstructed by a famous Portuguese architect. You can have a bite to eat but don't stay too long.

Cross the border

Cross the bridge over the Minho River to Tui in Spain — a charming medieval town. Walk its narrow streets and have a coffee before heading south to Viana do Castelo for the afternoon: the cathedral, the baroque chapel, and the funicular up to the Santa Luzia basilica.

Sightseeing day

The most important historic cities of northern Portugal are very close to our estate. Start with Braga — be sure to visit the Bom Jesus do Monte temple and the old city centre. The historic café A Brasileira is a lovely stop, and the Palácio dos Biscainhos museum is worth an hour.

Afternoon

From Braga, head 25 minutes to Guimarães — considered the birthplace of Portugal. Explore the castle, the ducal palace, and stroll through the beautifully preserved medieval centre. The town is walkable and full of character.

Stay in

We suggest you don't go anywhere today — we've had enough travelling. In the morning, perhaps a game of table tennis or big tennis, then the pool, then a lap on the electric bike around the village (rent it in the morning so we can charge it up). A salad of fresh vegetables from our garden for lunch.

Afternoon — mountain hike

After a light lunch, take route #2 directly from the gate — up to the chapel and back in just 40–50 minutes. A gentle climb with rewarding views. Then coffee or tea with fresh cake and homemade jam back at the house.

Ocean beach

Time to head back to the ocean. We'll start the day in Caminha, on the border with Spain, and make our way to Praia de Camarido. If you are with children and prefer a shorter journey, the river beach is a lovely option — swim there and walk along the river to the ocean to admire the view.

For the adventurous

Walk from the river beach all the way to the Spanish border — through pine forests, over dunes and along sand. The Parque Natural do Litoral Norte is stunning. Return via Moledo do Minho, a small village right on the river.

Porto — first time

You can't leave without visiting the most romantic city in the world. Here's our itinerary: 50 minutes by car to Parque de Serralves (1.5 hours for the park and museum), then drive to the city centre and park at Torre dos Clérigos. Walk from Livraria Lello down to the Ribeira, ending with a wine tasting at Solar do Vinho do Porto.

Alternative — Quinta da Ameal

If you've already been to Porto, we suggest walking route #9 to the Quinta da Ameal winery. We'll drop you off at the bridge over the Lima River and the eco-trail (the Orange Trail) will take you along the river to Cais da Garrida, then to the winery for a tour and tasting. Our shuttle will bring you back.