Touring Minho

Barcelos

Guimaraes

Melgaco

Moncao

Ponte de Lima

Viana do Castelo


Barcelos

CONVENTO DA FRANQUEIRA Franqueira (Barcelos 6km) Taste the Vinho Verde of Convento da Franqueira, a 16th Century monastery built with the stones from the nearby ruins of Faria castle. The English owners have restored the Convento with charm and imagination, creating a comfortable family home. The lush greenery of Franqueira's gardens and vineyard, and the spring-fed swimming pool, hidden behind a graceful 17th Century fonte, provide the visitor with a perfect setting to unwind. Accommodation: 2 doubles, 1 twin, pool. Top of page Close window


Guimaraes

SAO CIPRIANO Tabuadelo (Guimaraes 5km) A welcome sight indeed this 15th Century house must have been to the weary pilgrims lodging here on the way to Santiago de Compostela. Maintaining this age-old custom of receiving guests, the Sottomayor family today invite the modern day traveller. The spirit of medieval Portugal is evident in the delightful tower room, with its splendid four poster bed. Paco de Sao Cipriano is set amid the most enchanting gardens, orchards and vineyards, inviting you to stroll amongst its scented lush greenery. Accommodation: 4 doubles, 3 twins, pool. Top of page Close window


Melgaco

CALCADA (Melgaco) The exact date of construction of this rustic house is unknown, although by the architectural style and archaeological evidence it is thought to be late 17th or early 18th century. This farm setting in the most northerly village of Portugal is close to the mountainous region of the Peneda-Geres National Park, a most picturesque location. Accommodation: 2 doubles, 1 twin, pool. Top of page Close window


Moncao

RODAS Rodas (Moncao 1km) Situated in the Alvarinho wine-producing region, this noble manor has been owned by the Pita Palhares Antas Marinho family since 1500. It boasts a beautiful drive leading to the grand entrance, guarded by two splendid magnolias. This imposing building with its beautifully furnished interior is a delight to behold, and its surrounding woodland offers a charming backdrop for afternoon strolls. Accommodation: 5 doubles, 4 twins, pool. Top of page Close window


Ponte de Lima

CALHEIROS Calheiros (Ponte de Lima 8km) Paco de Calheiros has a most impressive entrance with its distinguished gateway, beautiful tree-lined drive and stone fountain. The Count of Calheiros, who will proudly show his 17th Century family home, makes guests to feel very welcome. A magnificent view of the Lima valley can be seen from the tranquil gardens. Accommodation: 6 doubles, 3 twins, 6 apartments for 2, 1 apartment for 6, pool. Top of page Close window


Viana do Castelo

AMEAL Meadela (Viana do Castelo 1km) The Faria Araujo family, who still reside there today, purchased Casa do Ameal in 1669 for just 3,500 shillings. It is thought to have been built in the 16th Century, although no exact date is known. In keeping with traditional Minho noble houses the entrance courtyard is adorned with a stone fountain and pond. The proprietors of Ameal have thoughtfully provided an authentic handicrafts and folklore display, and exhibit antique costumes belonging to their ancestors. Accommodation: 4 apartments for 2, 3 apartments for 4, pool. Top of page Close window