What to visit ( Culture and Nature )
Guimarães Castle
‘Recognised by many as the castle par excellence linked to the origins of Portugal, Guimarães Castle is a surprising structure in many ways. Firstly because of its origins, which are singularly obscure. It is certain that this is a condal structure, the result of an initiative by the emblematic countess of Porto, Mrs Mumadona Dias. Since it wasn’t mentioned in a detailed deed of division of property between the countess and her children in mid-950, we can assume that it didn’t exist at that time. But at the end of that same year, 950, it is already mentioned in a donation in which the Monastery of Guimarães is mentioned as being under her authority. It is therefore a condal foundation from the second half of the 10th century. Countess Mumadona herself states in a parchment dated 968 that she had founded it to protect the monastery of Guimarães from attack by ‘Gentiles’ (probably referring to the Normans). This primitive castle, wedged between granite outcrops, must have been built of wood and few traces of it remain.
Paço dos Duques
It was built by the eighth Count of Barcelos (later the first Duke of Bragança), King Afonso, the illegitimate son of King João I. Its construction took place between 1420 and 1433 and must have begun during Afonso’s second marriage to Constança de Noronha.
It is thought that during the 1500s the palace was still used as the residence of the Dukes of Bragança, but then gradually fell into a phase of abandonment and consequent ruin. In the 19th century, during the French invasions, the palace was converted into military barracks. And in the following century, during the Estado Novo regime, the Paço dos Duques was rebuilt between 1937 and 1959.
Penha Mountain
Located five kilometres from the city centre and 10 minutes away by cable car, Penha Mountain rises to an altitude of 617 metres with 60 hectares of green area that impresses with its beauty and harmony, combining religiosity and nature, elements that occupy a place of extraordinary importance.
The splendour of the Sanctuary, perched high atop the mountain, is matched by a landscape of dense, well-preserved trees, strongly punctuated by imposing granite and unique nooks and crannies with cliffs, hermitages, footpaths, fountains and watercourses, picnic areas and viewpoints with a fantastic landscape as far as the eye can see.
Here visitors can find spiritual comfort and a natural park favourable to the discovery of caves and paths and unforgettable moments of tranquillity and leisure.
Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte
The project by Carlos Amarante (1748) favoured the neoclassical style of Italian inspiration, which integrates the imposing Sanctuary of Bom Jesus into the harmony of the northern Portuguese landscape.
The staircase that leads to the top is made up of 17 levels decorated with symbolic fountains, allegorical statues and other baroque decoration dedicated to various themes: the Way of the Cross, the Five Senses, the Virtues, the Garden of Moses and, at the top, the eight biblical figures who took part in the Condemnation of Jesus. Don’t miss the view at the bottom of the Staircase. Looking up, the granite fountains on the various levels stand out from the white, forming a chalice on which the church itself ‘rests’.
Inside the church, which is sober and spacious, the paintings by Pedro Alexandrino (18th century) are noteworthy. Next to the church is the Confraternity Museum, whose collection consists of sacred art pieces, and the Library, created in 1918.
The Gerês Mountains
It is the second highest mountain in mainland Portugal.
The summit is 1546 metres high, according to the Army Geographic Institute. It is part of the Peneda-Gerês mountain system.
The Peneda-Gerês National Park is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
The Peneda-Gerês National Park has been named one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, in the category of Protected Areas. The announcement was made at a ceremony held at Portas do Mar, in Ponta Delgada, and broadcast live on RTP, where the names of the ‘7 Natural Wonders of Portugal’ were revealed.
Equilibrium and Nature
We want to share the beauty of nature.
The beauty and natural and cultural diversity of Minho, the friendliness and hospitality of the locals make it an ideal place to spend a holiday with your partner or family.
We organise walking tours of the surrounding countryside, bike rides, visits to historical sites
We organise the planting of native trees...
The Hotel Mestre de Avis is more than a haven of relaxation – it is also a guardian of local nature. Its sustainable initiatives include an inspiring project to plant indigenous trees. With each new tree planted, the hotel renews its commitment to preserving the local ecosystem, encouraging the growth of native species that strengthen the region’s biodiversity. Guests have the opportunity to take part and leave a green contribution to the future, making their stay a special and memorable experience.Contact us and make a difference!
Contact us and make a difference!
Guimarães' cycle path
It stretches for 16.5 kilometres from Veiga de Creixomil to the cycle track linking it to Fafe.
The route of the cycle path connects the existing cycle routes in Veiga de Creixomil, such as the Camino Real, the Cidade Desportiva Park, the Community Gardens and the Multipurpose Pavilion, the Cruz de Pedra site and the railway station.
In its development to the east, the cycle routes emerge on the old railway line, now deactivated, passing by public facilities such as the Cable Car, the City Park, school areas, finally linking up with the existing Cycle Tourism Track.