The Minho - Costa Verde - Self-Guided Walk

	Attractions in the traditional sense
	River valleys, mountain slopes and cliff tops
	Unspoilt, unchanged and very different
	Few dramatic sights but a fine selection of experiences

Walking tours in Portugal, Madeira and Azores

This walking holiday is two-centred allowing you to see a very different Portugal. The first three nights are spent in Viana do Castelo famed for both its historical centre with fine examples of Renaissance, Manueline & Baroque architecture & coastal setting lying on the north bank of the Lima estuary. The second half of the week is spent at an old Manor House (Solar) in Ponte de Lima, Portugal's oldest town. The Romans built a strategic bridge here & 5 of the original 16 arches still remain, it was rebuilt in the 14th century & is an impressive site spanning the Lima river while the town filled with buildings from Romanesque to neo-classical is a wonderful place to wander around.

ITINERARY

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Transfer from Porto to Viana do Castelo, overnight in Viana.

A walk along the coastal path passing 3 fine examples of 16th century forts which once guarded the coastline, old windmills & for the eagle eyed among you a chance to spot the Montedor rock art in the cliffs, dated at 3,000BC, 12km/7.5miles, overnight Viana.

A circular walk from Viana do Castelo to the famous Basilica de Santa Lucia and then on to the remains of the 4th century Citania de Santa Lucia, 15km/9.5miles, overnight Viana.

Transfer to the start of your walk in the Serra de Arga to explore a very different landscape. This circular walk takes you along the mountain slopes on your way to the isolated chapel of Santa Justa, 16km/10miles, transfer after the walk, overnight Ponte de Lima.

A day to explore the historic town of Ponte de Lima and the southern banks of the river using the new 'eco via', overnight in Ponte de Lima.

A circular walk north from Ponte de Lima along the banks of the Lima River before passing the historic village of Bertiandos. Then through protected wetlands, home to a great variety of birds, 16km/10miles, overnight Ponte de Lima.

A walk starting from the mountain village of Montaria high above the Lima valley. The walk has spectacular views all around and the countryside is home to the garrano a breed of wild horse who will keep a watchful eye on you, 12km 7.5miles , overnight Ponte de Lima.

Transfer to Porto.

	INCLUDED
	7 night's accommodation in a twin/double room with en-suite facilities and breakfasts
	6 picnics
	Transport to and from Porto airport
	Movement of luggage during the week and your transfer to and from the Serra de Arga
	Comprehensive walking notes & maps
	NOT INCLUDED 7 dinners, travel insurance and flights

Arrival Point

Airports – Porto or Lisbon and travel to Porto by train

Cost per person:
September to June: Ł405.00, $810.00 or 587euro
July and August: Ł475.00, $950.00 or 688euro