Places of interest nearby

The first king came from Guimerães. His castle is among the ten most beautiful castles in the country. Well worth a visit. The historic city has a medieval feel and is among the Minho's top attractions. Start your visit to Portugal in Guimerães.

Braga is known as the Rome of Portugal. Indeed, there are many churches. The city has a rich history and several world heritage sites to visit. The name Baroque City comes from the many Baroque buildings. You can obtain a walking route to view these at the tourist office.

A beautiful estate, located 1 kilometer from our Villa. Solar de Boucas welcomes you for a walk through the vineyard and a wine tasting.

The Roman baths of Chaves opened as a museum on Tuesday, 21 December 2021, and tell a story of 2000 years that was "frozen" in time after an earthquake, only being rediscovered in the excavations for the construction of a car park. "Here we have the largest baths on the Iberian Peninsula and one of the largest in Europe and the Roman Empire," Rui Lopes, the archaeologist co-responsible for the excavation and who accompanied the project, told Lusa news agency. The Mayor of Chaves, Nuno Vaz, believes that the Roman medicinal baths will be the "jewel in the crown" of Chaves, and one of the main points of tourist attraction for this area. Rui Lopes explained that this is a therapeutic bath, which differentiates it from other baths that exist in practically all Romanised sites, namely the hygienic baths, where one would go to bathe. "These are therapeutic, almost an equivalence to a hospital. These baths would have been of great importance within the empire, because it was a space where people came to treat the ailments of war, and skin or stomach diseases", explained the archaeologist. An abandoned car park project It was during archaeological surveys conducted in 2005, in the Arrabalde square in the city centre, for the construction of a car park, that this "magnificent heritage preserved in time" was identified. Rui Lopes said that the project for the car park was abandoned and archaeological excavations were carried out to reveal two large pools, seven other small pools and a complex hydraulic system to supply the structures, which still works today. The site represents a heritage that was as if "frozen" in time, due to an earthquake that caused the collapse of the building in the 4th century CE. "The earthquake sealed a chronological period," noted the archaeologist, who added that during the excavations, the remains of a family that had been bathing when the collapse occurred were found. A bath town in the Roman period and bath town nowadays The Roman medicinal bath was classified as a national monument in 2012 for being the "most important Portuguese thermal complex", of dimensions only comparable, in provincial terms, to the site in Bath (England). After a "complex administrative" process, the museum opened on Tuesday, 21 December. Admission is free and, inside you can travel through 2000 years of the history of this place, both through the ruins, an exhibition of artefacts, as well as the explanatory panels, screens and interactive tactile tables that also reveal the remains of the 17th-century wall and images of the prospection and then the excavation that uncovered the archaeological find. Bath city in the Roman period and bath city today. With the opening of the museum, Chaves now has a complementarity between past and present, between its ancient history and the current thermal springs. The Roman legions arrived in the territory about two millennia ago, settled there and left Trajan's bridge, the Roman bridge still used to cross the river Tâmega in the centre of the city, took advantage of the mineral waters, established thermal baths, explored auriferous veins and other resources. This urban nucleus acquired such importance at that time that it was elevated to the category of municipality in the year 79 CE, when Vespasian, the first Caesar of the Flavian dynasty, ruled. This is the origin of Aquae Flaviae, the ancient designation of the current city of Chaves.

"After a few minutes, we finally got what we came for, a beautiful bowl of Presunto served in a spiral. Well of course we came expecting the very best Presunto in the vicinity. Moment of truth: ...... fantastic. The first pieces we took were immediately a fantastic experience. The Presunto was very soft and tender. And not sticky, as my little brother would put it. By that I mean that it doesn't get stuck in your throat and hard to swallow like certain other Presuntos." - https://bit.ly/cafetanque

Historical Background: The Battle of Cambedo (1946) On 20 December 1946, in the border village of Cambedo da Raia, on the border between Portugal and Spain, a violent confrontation took place between the Spanish Guardia Civil, Portuguese authorities and a group of anti-Franco guerrillas—members of the so-called maquis, Republican fighters who continued to resist Francisco Franco's fascist regime after the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939). After their defeat in the civil war, thousands of Republicans fled to France and some to Portugal. However, many remained active as resistance fighters. They committed acts of sabotage, collected weapons, and attempted to overthrow the Franco regime through guerrilla actions. Cambedo da Raia was located at a strategic point: a remote, mountainous border area where smuggling and secret crossings had been commonplace for decades. In December 1946, three guerrillas entered the village, presumably on the run after a failed operation in Galicia. When their presence was discovered, the Spanish Guardia Civil was informed. What followed was an illegal incursion by the Guardia Civil into Portuguese territory, with the Portuguese Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR) also cooperating with the Spanish—an action that violated international law. A firefight broke out that lasted several hours. Two guerrillas were killed, and one survived and was captured. There are also indications that a Portuguese civilian was shot dead, presumably for helping the fugitives. Although Portugal was officially neutral and had to protect its borders, under Salazar there was a tacit alliance with the Franco regime. Both regimes were authoritarian and anti-communist, and saw the eradication of left-wing elements as a shared interest. The Portuguese government did not make a diplomatic protest about the Spanish invasion. Instead, the incident was hushed up, concealed in the press, and the village was placed under surveillance. It was not until years later—after the Carnation Revolution of 1974—that some villagers dared to tell their story. To this day, Cambedo da Raia remains a symbol in local memory of the suppressed history of resistance and the tensions between power, fear, and solidarity.

From Verín on the N-525 in the direction of Ourense, once past the bridge over the River Tâmega and the Casa del Escudo, we can continue our route by walking along the royal road, the Camino de Santiago, through which we will arrive at one of Galicia's most impressive fortresses. Another option is to continue by car along the N-525 until a right turn takes us to the castle and the Parador de Turismo. The castle has a triple walled enclosure, forming a whole complex of obvious interest. This palace was built in the 16th and early 17th centuries. On the other side of the square, the first Counts of Monterrei built the keep, the base of which is square and topped by a cornice supported by corbels. All the stones in the castle enclosure are engraved with mason's marks. The keep, of considerable proportions, is 22.50 metres high. The so-called Ladies' Tower (14th century) is smaller and adjoins the palace. This is the foundation of the gallery of columns with armorial stones in the tympanums. The palace of the Counts, in Renaissance style, with large galleries of lowered arches; the columns of this gallery each have a different coat of arms.

In the Spanish town of Verín, you will soon find several cosy, and above all delicious restaurants. One of these is Pizzería Napoli, if you ask us, the tastiest pizzeria in the area. This place soon became our regular spot, and with a monthly visit (or more often) we soon became regulars. The menu is simple but you have a choice of both fresh pasta or pizza. You can compose your pasta yourself and order your pizzas in either medium or large. Extra ingredients are no problem, and the service is super friendly. If you are in the area, this is a really good location to visit. Tip from us: try the Pizza Vendetta with anchovies, or the pasta Tres.

The town of Verín is preparing to host the XVIII Fair of Monterrei Wine, an event that will be held from 8 to 10 August and which will bring together 19 of the 29 wineries of the Monterrei Designation of Origin. For three days, the Plaza de la Alameda will become the epicenter of the wine world of the region of Monterrei, offering residents and visitors not only the opportunity to taste the most outstanding wines of the designation of origin, but also enjoy a complete cultural and gastronomic program. This has been confirmed in the official presentation of the event by the mayor of Verín, Gerardo Seoane; the president of the Regulatory Council of D.O Monterrei, Manuel Vázquez; and the councilor of Tourism, Culture and Festivities, Samanta Barreira. On this occasion will attend a total of 19 of the 29 wineries that make up the Denomination, “we will have the same number of wineries as in the previous edition, which reflects the great support of the sector to this wine event so important for our region”, recognizes the Chairman of the Regulatory Council of the D.O. Monterrei, Manuel Vázquez. This appointment will take place, as usual in the past editions, in the plaza de la Alameda. In addition to the stands of the wineries, there will be food stalls suitable for all audiences. The exhibition centre will be open on Friday 8 from 20.00 to 24.00 h. (early sale from 19.00 h); on Saturday 9 from 12.30 to 14.30 h and from 19.30 to 01.00 h; and on Sunday 10, from 12.30 to 14.30 h and from 19.30 to 24.00 h. In this edition, the prices will be 1 tasting for two euros and a personalized glass of D.O. for two euros. As a novelty this year is included the cashless payment system that will allow the public to make the payment of tastings and drinks through a bracelet that will be provided at the stands of the C.R.D.O. Monterrei and can be recharged at the themselves. The opening ceremony of the XVIII Monterrei Wine Fair will be held on Friday 8, starting at 20:00 hours, in Plaza García Barbón, Prior to that inauguration, in the Parish Church of Verín, at 18:30 hours, will take place the act of imposition of medals of the Brotherhood of the Wines of Monterrei, which is carried out in conjunction with the celebration of the fair. The mayor of Verín, Gerardo Seoane Fidalgo, stressed in his speech the positive impact that the fair has for the local community. “The Monterrei Wine Fair is an exceptional showcase of which we are able to offer: quality, tradition and modernity. Throughout these days, Verín becomes a reference of enogastronomic tourism, favoring local commerce, the hospitality sector and the image of our territory as a reference destination in Galicia”. Agenda of events Culture, gastronomy, music and wine will come together one more year in the framework of the Monterrei Wine Fair, among which will include various parallel activities aimed at adults and children. The same will be held in the Plaza Mayor and inside the park of the Alameda, during the days of 8, 9 and 10 August. While for children are scheduled for Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 August popular children’s games (from 20:00 to 22:00 hours); for adults will be held interesting catas and showcookings in the plaza de la Alameda. On Saturday, August 9, at 13:00 hours, Juanjo Figueroa, president of the Asociación Galega de Sumilleres (AGASU) and image of the campaign to promote the Designation of Origin Monterrei “Non lle deas mais voltas”, will make a special tasting under the title “Monterrei, sips of history and trend”. Later, at 20:00 hours, there will be the harmony of wines “Come, drink and learn do mellor xeito”, with the participation of Begoña Vázquez (best chef Gallego 2024), Miguel López (technical director of C.R.D.O. Monterrei) and José Manuel Salgado (teacher of CMUS Verín). On Sunday, August 10, 2025, at 1:00 pm in the plaza de la Alameda, Juliana Picarelli (sumiller of the Maruja Limón Restaurant 1 Michelin star and 2 Repsol soles), will offer a tasting paired with products from “Calidade de Galicia Experiences” presented as “Monterrei: Atlantic freshness, continental character”. All these events have a price of 10 € and limited places with prior registration. Second has confirmed the councilor of Culture and Festivities, Samanta Barreira, there will also be a complete musical program specially prepared for the enjoyment of all audiences. On Friday 8, from 24:00 hours, it will be the turn of Guadi Galego, one of the most recognized voices of contemporary Galician music. He will present his new show, Síntesis Horizonte, a careful and intimate proposal with which he claims the transforming power of live music. After a time of absence from the country’s stages, Guadi returns with a new staging accompanied by a prodigious band and careful lighting, deepening in the constant evolution of his sound language. On Saturday 9, at 24:00 hours, Xabier Díaz and the Adufeiras de Salitre will take the Plaza Mayor. The artist from La Coruña, a reference of Galician music, will offer a repertoire based on his last record work Axúdame a sentir (2024). Díaz, internationally recognized, has about 400 concerts around the world. His style, based on traditional hand percussion and the tambourine, transformed the scene of traditional Galician music, remaining faithful to its origins while innovating in its sonority. On Sunday 10, it will be Mondra, at 23:00 hours, who closes the musical programming of the fair. Cantareiro, dancer and one of the most acclaimed names in the new Galician music scene, comes to Verín with his new show De Ronda, an irreverent and seductive album that delves into its roots and mixes fresh and organic sounds. After receiving the Martín Códax Award for Best Electronic Album (2024) and the Mestre Mateo Award for Best Video Clip (2025) by MARIMONDRA, Mondra accumulates more than 80 concerts and a devoted audience with her stage proposal FOLĪA das ARDENTES. Participating wineries, gastronomic stands and collaborators The President of the Control Board has indicated the names of the 19 wineries participating in the next edition of the Monterrei Wine Fair, which are as follows: Ladairo Gargalo Adega Valderello Crego e Monaguillo Quinta do Buble Terras do Cigarrón Triay Adega Tapias Mariñán 3 Mentiras Vía Arxéntea Abeledos Setembro Bodega Franco Basalo Adegas Daniel Fernández Adega Trasdovento Quinta Soutullo Manuel Vázquez Losada Serra de Alén Ramón Bigotes With respect to the food stands, one more than in the last edition, will be present Panadería Roscas, Cárnicas de Feces, Jamones Don Francisco, Queixeria Gaia, Matilde Waffles e Gelados, Alacena-Puebla de Sanabria, Cien por Cel, Conservas Regiomare, Xavier dos Leitões and Casa do Pulpo. Finally, they wanted to thank the involvement of institutions and collaborating entities: Xunta de Galicia, Deputación de Ourense, Inorde, Ministerio de Agricultura, Pesca e Alimentación, and Fondo Europeo Agrícola de Desarollo Rural (FEADER). About D.O Monterrei Monterrei is one of the five Galician wine appellations of origin. It covers the municipalities of Verín, Monterrei, Vilardevós, Riós, Oímbra and Castrelo do Val. It is made up of 29 wineries. The vineyards of this D.O. occupy a total of 798 hectares of territory in which 381 winegrowers work.

A river beach in Trás is Montes that is a regional showpiece. In summer, it offers changing rooms, toilets, a café and areas for barbecues or picnics.

Pegada's Fraga beach has been consecutively awarded with the Blue Flag since 2004, which is a unique case among European river beaches. Furthermore, it is the Portuguese river beach that has raised the Blue Flag for the longest time. In 2019 it was the most voted in the "river beaches guide" becoming the beach of the year in the category of river beaches. With a beach length of 480 metres and recognised as an Accessible Beach for people with reduced mobility, Pegada's Fraga Beach also has a playground, for the delight of the little ones, and structures and equipment that enable different types of entertainment for all age groups, such as pedalos, canoeing, beach football, beach volleyball, basketball, tennis, paddle tennis, and a fitness circuit. This beach has a sandy beach and a large grassy area where you can spread your towel and replenish your vitamin D levels, alternating with bathing in the clear water, whose temperature is around 24ºC. Here you will also find car parks in an area close to the beach. It is a place that is very popular during the summer months, especially at weekends in July and August, being a good option during the rest of the year to walk around and get to know the different animal and plant species.