The journey begins with the arrival in Monção, a historic village located in the Alto Minho region, famous for its Alvarinho wine and its rich heritage. After checking in at the hotel, the first point of visit is the Brejoeira Palace, an impressive property dating back to the early 19th century. Surrounded by vineyards, the palace is an example of the grandeur of neoclassical architecture and offers a visit to its interior, including the gardens and the winery where the famous Alvarinho wine is produced. After the visit, the evening will be dedicated to enjoying a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try regional dishes such as roasted goat, “arroz de sarrabulho” (a traditional rice dish), and lamprey (depending on the season). Overnight stay in Monção.
After breakfast, the day will be dedicated to the Alvarinho Wine Route, starting with a visit to a winery in Monção to learn about the production process of Alvarinho wine, one of the most prestigious white wine varieties in Portugal. After the wine tasting, the journey continues to Melgaço, where there will be a break for lunch. Here, you can savor dishes such as “naco de carne Cachena” (a type of local beef), accompanied by the ever-present Alvarinho wine. After lunch, explore Melgaço, with a visit to the Solar do Alvarinho, a space where you can taste and buy various wines from the region. Take the opportunity to discover the historic center of Melgaço, strolling through the medieval streets and visiting the castle, which offers a panoramic view of the village and its surroundings. Dinner will be at a traditional restaurant, highlighting Melgaço ham and local sausages. Return to Monção to rest.
The third day will be dedicated to discovering Castro Laboreiro, a village located in the Peneda-Gerês National Park, famous for its mountainous landscapes and rich historical heritage. The morning begins with a light walk through the cobbled streets of the village, passing by the Castle of Castro Laboreiro, a medieval fortification in ruins with stunning views over the mountains. After visiting the castle, it will be time to enjoy a regional lunch at a typical restaurant. Dishes such as veal steak or stewed wild boar are local specialties, served with “batata à murro” (crushed potatoes) and greens. The afternoon will be free to explore the surrounding nature, with the possibility of visiting the famous medieval bridges of Castro Laboreiro or venturing on one of the region’s hiking trails. The day ends with a return to Monção to rest.
The fourth day will be dedicated to discovering Sistelo, known as the “Little Portuguese Tibet” due to its stunning terraced fields. After breakfast, we will take a hike along the Sistelo Boardwalk Trail, a circular route offering spectacular views of the terraced fields, the Vez River, and the surrounding mountains. The hike will be leisurely, with several opportunities to photograph the unique rural landscape and appreciate the tranquility of the area. Midway through the trail, we will pause for a picnic, where you can taste local products such as mountain cheese, sausages, and cornbread. After the hike, we return to Sistelo for a relaxing afternoon, where you can explore the village, known for its traditional granite houses and its bucolic atmosphere. Dinner will be at a local restaurant, featuring dishes such as oven-roasted goat and bean rice. Return to Monção for an overnight stay.
On the last day, after breakfast, there will be some free time to explore Monção before departure. You can take a stroll around the Parque das Caldas, famous for its thermal waters, or visit the walls and fortifications surrounding the village’s historic center. If you prefer, you can also visit one last winery to buy Alvarinho wine directly from the producer. Before saying goodbye to the Alto Minho region, enjoy a light lunch featuring specialties such as “sopa de pedra” (stone soup) or “bacalhau à minhota” (Minho-style codfish). After lunch, it will be time to head back, taking with you memories of the landscapes, flavors, and traditions of this rich region.
