Valenca do Minho
- Address:Valenca do Minho, Portugal
- Admission:Free
Cultural Experience, Nature & Wildlife, Monument - Military, Ruin - Ancient
Valenca do Minho, in Portugal across the border formed by the Minho River, was originally a fortress town built to protect the frontier from Spanish incursion. Now, Spanish incursion is encouraged; indeed, Spaniards cross into this little town to purchase its renowned textiles, especially its terry cloth.
The fortress is one of the most popular attractions in Portugal. The old town is surrounded by its huge stone ramparts. Here you'll find narrow alleys - and the textile shops. This little market district is well known for its garments and typical Portuguese souvenirs like gold jewelry, pottery, lingerie and wine. Market fairs include São Teotónio in February, Our Lady of Cabeça during Easter, and in August, Our Lady of Health Fair and the Muncipality Festival.
Beyond the shopping opportunities, the fortress affords visitors magnificient views of the Minho River and the surrounding countryside, as well as the comparatively new part (the ramparts and old town were built in the 18th century) of Valenca.
Nearby, are two fortified villages, Caminha and Monçao. The former is still a quaint fishing village with curio shops and a bustling lace industry. The latter is known for its hot springs and accompanying health spa.
Latest Reviews All Valenca do Minho Reviews »
Well timed,excellent guide. I will recommend to my friends.The only minor thing is that pick up in Compostela hotel is not available as advertised. Continue Reading »
The tour was well organized and the tour guide was very knowledgeable and pleasant. Everything was well planned out. I wish we had more time at each stop but it's understandable since there is so much to see in the allotted time. Very happy my family and I went on this tour. Continue Reading »
This was a splendid day out, and included (not mentioned in itinerary) a visit to a hilltop Celtic village and Mount Tecla, spectacularly overlooking the mouth of the River Minho. It is a long day, so make sure you have a relaxing morning to follow. Lunch was taken in Portugal and very good, consisting of soup, a baked cod dish topped with beautiful crisp potatoes, a dessert, coffee, water and plenty of wine. There is a little bit of walking to do, and some hilly bits and steps, so may not suite a person of lesser mobility. Scenery was magnificent on the perfectly sunny day I was lucky to have. I was the only English speaking individual on a bus full of Spanish speaking people, who were nice polite folk. One or two had some words of English, so I enjoyed their company at the table for lunch. Continue Reading »
Practical Info
Valenca do Minho is a fun day trip, and it's not far from a number of wineries (in the area around Monçao) and beaches, southwest of Caminha. Another nearby village, Melgaco, is notable for its 12th century castle, Romanesque chapel and wineries.
A popular destination in this area are inns known as pousadas. Some of these are built in or near castles or other historical points of interest, and many are just as old. Others have modern accomodations. Bed-and-breakfast fans should take note.
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