3 Days | Route of the Romanesque with Terras de Basto and Douro

Departure from Lisbon via Coimbra and Sandim to Lousada. Visit to the Interpretation Centre of the Romanesque, an exhibition space dedicated to promoting historical and cultural heritage, distinguished by its bold contemporary architecture.

Regional lunch.

In the afternoon, visit to the Monastery of Cête, whose foundation is traditionally attributed to D. Gonçalo Oveques and dates back to the 10th century. In the cloister, the tomb chests of noble knights are particularly noteworthy.

Next, visit the Monastery of Paço de Sousa, linked to the Ribadouro family, from which Egas Moniz, the famous tutor of King Afonso Henriques, came. The tomb of Egas Monix is one of the most beautiful pieces of Romanesque sculpture in Portugal.

Continue to Guimarães. Dinner and accommodation.

Breakfast. Panoramic view of the cradle city, highlighting the proud centre formed by the Castle, Ducal Palace and statue of the founder, Afonso Henriques.

Departure for Ferreira.

Visit to the church of the Monastery of Ferreira, one of the most important monuments of Portuguese Romanesque architecture, dating back to the 11th century, with its richly carved portal.

Continue on to visit the Monastery of Travanca , with its unusually large monastic church, sculptural ornamentation and extraordinary tower flanking it.

Departure for the city of Amarante.

Regional lunch. Visit to the monumental complex: Church and Bridge of Saint Gonzalo. Time to enjoy the beauty of the princess city of Tâmega and taste the much-appreciated regional sweets.

Departure for Felgueiras.

Visit to the Monastery of Pombeiro, one of the most important Benedictine monasteries in the region. Founded by D. Gomes Echiegues and his wife Gontroda in 1102.

Return to Guimarães. Dinner and accommodation.

Breakfast. Departure through the characteristic landscape of Terras de Basto, transition between the green Minho and the mountainous interior of Trás-os-Montes, to Mondim de Basto.

Ascent to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graça, one of the most iconic sites in northern Portugal.

Continue on to the Douro landscapes with the terraced vineyards provided by the Douro River valley, to Lamego.

Visit to the cathedral dedicated to Our Lady of Assumption, a Romanesque monument, as well as the Church of Almacave, dating from the mid-12th century, under the patronage of D. Afonso Henriques.

Regional lunch. Time in the city of Lamego to buy traditional products, such as smoked meats and the famous Lamego cheese.

Return via Coimbra to Lisbon.