Pousadas of Portugal: Green Portugal & Porto

Flying into Porto, you'll head north, up the coast to Viana do Castelo's medieval quarters and pretty beaches, rich in palaces emblazoned with coats of arms, churches, monasteries, and water features that constitute a wealth of heritage. The Praca de Republica in the heart of the city is where you find the 16th century Misericordia building and fountain. The Pousada Viana do Castelo offers one of the most famous views in Portugal set high on Mount Santa Luzia with spectacular panoramas over the old sailing port and the Atlantic coast with its long sweep of sandy beaches.

Stay: Pousada Viana do Castelo

Today head north to Ponte de Lima and into the stunning Geres National Park, the only national park in Portugal. Rivers and streams flow through the Peneda, Soajo Amarela and Geres mountain ranges. You might sometimes manage to spot a roebuck or its predator, the Iberian wolf, more common are the small wild horses that run free in the mountains. The Pousada at Geres is a spectacular mountain chalet sitting high in the mountains offering a spectacular backdrop with plenty of valleys, rivers and hills, where you can relax and take in wonderful views from the terrace. You will spend two nights here and enjoy walking and exploring the countryside.

Stay: Pousada Geres-Caricada 

Today leave the mountains and head on over to Guimarães, one of Portugal's historical gems commonly known as 'birthplace of Portugal' and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can enjoy exploring its charming cobbled squares. Tonight's accommodation is the Pousada Mosteiro de Guimaraes, a 12th-century Augustinian monastery with fantastic views of the city.

Stay: Pousada Mosteiro de Guimaraes

Amares is the next stop on this route, and with two nights here you'll have time to make the most of both the beautiful surroundings and nearby historic villages such as Braga, located only 16km away and overlooked by the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus. You'll be based at the Pousada Amares, a stunning 12th century Cistercian monastery in the Vinho Verde wine region where panoramic mountain views are best taken in with a glass or two of the excellent local wine.

Stay: Pousada Amares

Today head away from Amares and back to the coast to enjoy your final night in Portugal. And you'll sign off in style with a stay at the Pousada do Porto Rua Flores, in a prime location in the historic city centre on Rua das Flores, one of Porto's most photographed streets. 

Stay: Pousada do Porto Rua Flores

This morning, after breakfast, head to the airport to return your car and fly home.