Minho - Heaven on Earth (Minho)

Member Name: sdomingues

Product:	Minho
Date:	17/07/01 (31 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Natural undisturbed beauty, Easy access to Spain

Disadvantages: Need to know local language, Far from modern amenities

I had been to Portugal on a few occasions, but had never ventured north to the Minho region, near the Spanish border. I must honestly say that the views are unbelievably breathtaking. The people are some of warmest and friendliest I have yet come across. Whether you are into shopping, hiking, camping, clubbing or just relaxing, the many towns and villages of the Minho region offer unlimited opportunities for all tastes and palates. You can shop along the chic boutiques of Arcos de Valdvez or in the outdoor markets of Ponte De Lima. For the adventurer, you can hike along the many mountain trails to Peneda and swim in the many rivers and natural springs of the mountains (warm and cold springs). Fishing is allowed along many of the rivers (please check with local tourism offices). For the party goers, Minho offers many discos and other attractions such as numerous outdoor festivals, sporting events and casinos in nearby towns. For the true traveler, Minho offers the unique opportunity to wine and dine in Spain and return to your hotel in Portugal all within a short ride. Finally, for the history buff there is a wealth of castles, fortresses, archeological dig sites and old preserved villages to explore. The European Union has made crossing the Spanish border a breeze. I personally prefer the smaller villages that lie within the various valleys of the Parque Nacional da Peneda Geres (a national Park in Minho). Here you will find modern life set against the history and natural beauty of the tail of the Pyrennees Mountains

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