Private Day Trip Tour to: Braga, Lanhoso, Gêres, Lobios - Departure from from Porto

Tour Stops Description:

1. Braga: Cathedral & Surroundings

We start our tour visiting Braga, a city founded under the name Bracara Augusta by the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus in 16 BCE, after the Romans conquered the Northern Iberian Peninsula. The city of Braga is well known for its precious religious and artistic heritage.

Once in Braga, we’ll visit the magnificent cathedral, considered the oldest in Portugal. Then we'll explore the historic centre of Braga, along the way, visiting the medieval tower, known as Torre de Menagem, which is the most important remaining element of the ancient castle built by D. Dinis. Then, we’ll visit the main square, Praça da República. Last, but not least, we’ll visit the superb colourful garden Jardim de Santa Bárbara.

2. Lanhoso: Castle Visit

On our second tour stop, we'll visit one of the most impressive Portuguese castles, known as Castelo de Lanhoso. This catle sits atop the largest granite monolith in the country, literally the mountain is an enormous rock. Originally built during the XI century, according to the tradition, this castle is connected to important historic events.

On one occasion, the Countess of the Portucalense County, Dona Teresa, was held hostage inside this castle by her half-sister, Urraca I, the queen of León and Galicia. Luckly for Dona Teresa, an agreement was reached ending the siege. On another occasion, the same Dona Teresa, was once again held hostage at Castelo de Lanhoso, this time around by her own son, the first king of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques. As we can see, Dona Teresa was not really great in managing family conflicts!

3. Gêres: Portela do Homem Waterfall

As we journey towards our third tour stop, prepare for an unforgettable drive through the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês, navigating winding mountain roads that offer breathtaking views of towering peaks, creeks and cascades. During the journey, keep an eye out for the famed wild horses that roam this magnificent park.

We’ll make our stop at the captivating Portela do Homem, a hidden gem nestled amidst the natural beauty of the park. Here, you'll be treated to a spectacle of nature—a stunning waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear natural pool. During the summer months, Portela do Homem becomes an oasis, inviting you to take a refreshing swim in its pristine waters.

4. Lobios: Public Hot Spring Pool

Our fourth stop is at Lobios, where we'll enjoy the relaxing hot waters of the public thermal pool. The surrounding landscape is magnificent with a view of the mountains that are just a few kilometres away, and the river that is just a few meters away. Having the river just beside the hot spring pool is perfect for contrast bathing. You know, getting yourself into hot water and then into cold water. This is good for increasing blood circulation and for strengthening your vascular system.

Talking about health benefits, the thermal waters that fill this pool are quite special because they originate deep down inside a geological fault. These waters emerge at almost 80°C, and they are rich in minerals and salts that are helpful to treat some dermatological and rheumatic problems.