When travelling in Portugal we are delighted to find Casa do Ameal in Viano do Castelo. It’s a traditional, authentic country house with extensive gardens! The property is very much in the city but feels like we are in the countryside as soon as we arrive. The property's secluded setting in the Minho region allows us to escape the hustle and bustle of city life while still being within easy reach of Viana do Castelo. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Casa do Ameal provides a serene oasis for those seeking tranquility.
We are greeted by the owner and staff at Casa do Ameal, who go beyond to make us feel welcome. Their warm and genuine hospitality made us feel like a valued guest from the moment we arrive. They're not just attentive but also knowledgeable about the region, offering valuable insights into local culture and attractions.
The accommodations are clean and cozy, our room allowed self-catering, which is one of the reasons we include the property on our website. We have the pleasure of staying in a beautifully decorated suite with a private terrace overlooking the vineyards. With nice attention to detail in the room's design. You simply don’t want to eat in a restaurant every day and the supermarket is across the road. But don’t miss breakfast: one of the great features of Casa do Ameal is its breakfast cuisine.
Casa do Ameal offers a range of activities to suit various interests. Whether you're looking to relax by the pool, explore the vineyards with lemon and orange groves, visit the wine cellars, or venture into the nearby historic city of Viana do Castelo, there's something for everyone. The guided tours provide fascinating insights into winemaking.
Viana do Castelo is one of the most beautiful cities in the north of Portugal. This city by the sea played an important role in the voyages of discovery and later in cod fishing. You will appreciate the beautiful views and the Templo do Sagrado Coração de Jesus when you visit the city. Viana is also rich in palaces, churches, monasteries and drinking fountains decorated with coats of arms of noble families, a cultural heritage well worth a visit. Walking to the historic center takes only 20 minutes, which can be great with younger children.
In less than an hour you can also reach Porto: a vibrant and historical city that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. You'll find plenty of exciting and engaging experiences to keep children entertained. We start our journey in Porto's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and explore the narrow, winding streets of the Ribeira district, where colorful buildings, charming alleys, and picturesque riverfront views await. You will enjoy wandering through this charming area, taking worthy photos, and learning about the city's rich history. Another great option is to climb the Clerigos Tower for a breathtaking view of Porto. It's a bit of a climb with 225 steps, but the panoramic views of the city are well worth the effort.
Credits Pixabay: Capela das Almas, an beautiful pictoral history
Book lovers in your family will be enchanted by Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. The ornate interior, grand staircase, and intricate woodwork make it feel like stepping into a magical world. It's also said to have inspired J.K. Rowling while she was writing the Harry Potter series. If your family has an interest in art or history, feel free to explore the Soares dos Reis National Museum. Or visit the World of Discoveries Museum, an interactive museum that tells the story of Portugal's Age of Exploration. Teens can explore life-size replica ships, learn about famous explorers, and even participate in hands-on activities.
Porto is known for its delicious food, and trying local cuisine is a must. Introduce your children to Portuguese dishes like Francesinha (a hearty sandwich), Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá (salted codfish), and Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts). They'll also enjoy sipping on fresh fruit juices or tasting Port wine (for the older teens) at one of the city's many cafes and restaurants.
Or you might find some refreshness on a boat tour on the Douro River to see Porto from a different perspective. There are various options, including traditional Rabelo boat tours and modern cruise ships. It's a fantastic way for teenagers to unwind and appreciate the beauty of the city's riverfront.
Credits: Pixabay The Riverfront of Porto
Heading northward (half an hour), we embark on a stroll along a segment of the Camino Portugués that led us through the fortified town of Valencia. Originally constructed in the 13th century, these fortifications surrounding the historic town were reinforced during the 17th and 18th centuries. It's no surprise that these tall, robust defenses effectively thwarted attacks from both Spain and France. The village awakens quietly in the early morning, with shops gradually opening for the day. Following the guidance of the yellow arrows, we venture through the fortress walls, ultimately arriving at the international bridge spanning the Minho River. Here, we bid farewell to Portugal and greet Spain with open arms! Don't forget to stroll across the bridge for a photograph, with one foot in each country - a memorable moment indeed! In Valencia city, you can savor the delectable cod, a local delicacy celebrated in over 60 restaurants. Keep in mind that this is a tourist-frequented spot, especially on weekends and during the bustling months of July and August. In such times, it's advisable to simply explore the outer walls of the town, which promises an enjoyable hour of discovery.
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# Casa do Ameal is a hidden gem in Northern Portugal. Nestled amidst picturesque vineyards, this charming country house offers an exceptional experience that left us thoroughly impressed. From the stunning location to the attentive service, here's what made our stay memorable.
# The location in the Minho region. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Casa do Ameal provides a serene oasis for those seeking tranquility.
# Casa do Ameal exceeds our expectation. It's a haven for wine enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The combination of good service and a serene setting makes it a destination we recommend to anyone traveling to Northern Portugal.
At the time of our visit, Topwithkids wasn’t launched yet. However we feel this destination should be mentioned here. Credits of most photos are for the destination itself or pixabay.