AMARES

The area was influenced in medieval times greatly by two religious orders; the Order of Saint Benedict, which established the Rendufe Monastery in the 11th century and the Cistercian Order, which built Santa Maria do Bouro Monastery in the 12th century. The latter is now a Pousada well-loved by walkers due to its close proximity to the Peneda-Gerês national park. Restored by the acclaimed architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, who managed to update the building's facilities to accommodate guests whilst retaining its charm and original features. Another monastery of the area is the Nossa Senhora da Abadia dating from the 18th century.

The therapeutic waters of Caldas do Gerês Thermal Baths can be found close by in the national park. Situated in an idyllic spot surrounded by lakes and mountains, the waters here have been famous within Portugal since Roman times. Construction of the existing building was started by Dom Joâo V. The resort became fashionable with royalty in the 19th century.

The region is scarcely populated. Amares is the administrative centre for the area's agriculture. It offers the visitor a tranquil escape from the hubbub of Braga and a good base for exploring the National Park.

The Ponte do Porto (also known as Ponte de Prozelo) takes its name from the old Galician-Portuguese word for "Crossing Point" - Port. Situated on the Cávado river, there have been river crossings at this point since antiquity. This current bridge was constructed sometime during the middle of the 14th century and became a national monument in 1910.

Built of local granite and consisting of eleven arches of unequal widths. The bridge spans 150 metres (490ft) over the River Cávado. Legend states that the bridge was first built to aid the conquest of the lands on the southern bank. Whilst the men were busy with the battle, the women from Terras de Bouro, some 30km away, brought the stones for its construction. | 41° 36′ 58″ N | 08° 20′ 33″ W

The earliest construction here dates way back to the 7th & 8th centuries. If proven, it would be the oldest such sanctuary in Portugal. These were followed by a 12th-century construction that served as a convent, neither of which remain today. The current sanctuary was constructed during the 17th and 18th centuries.

The sanctuary was built in the style of the area. Sharing some similarities with the sanctuary of Bom Jesus of Braga, the Abadia Sanctuary was constructed with eight chapels positioned along a steep path that represents the life of Christ. Situated within the churchyard stands the house of offerings and shelters for pilgrims.

Also situated here is the museum of sacred art - O Museu do Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Abadia, a must see after visiting the sanctuary. If closed, the key can be obtained at the "Casa Das Ofertas" for a token charge. The museum also explains how the pilgrims slept within their quarters. The sanatoriums tranquil location makes it an ideal spot for a walk through the countryside and take advantage of the picnic areas.

Santa Maria de Bouro, 4720-643 Vilela, Amares, Portugal. | 41° 40' 30.8" N | 08° 15' 28.1" W
+351 938 039 504

Located in the heart of Amares, Portugal, the Santo André de Rendufe Monastery is a historical gem waiting to be explored. This charming Benedictine Monastery, likely dating back to the 12th century, is steeped in history and boasts stunning architecture that reflects its rich past. Though its origins are ancient, the monastery underwent significant renovations in the 18th century, blending the old with the new in a truly captivating way.

As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by an impressive array of gold carvings in the elaborate rococo style, a feast for the eyes that will transport you back to a more opulent time. Outside, the courtyard offers its own delights, with a beautiful stone-carved fountain and a serene 18th-century garden that invites you to take a leisurely stroll. The Santo André de Rendufe Monastery has been recognised as a Property of Public Interest since 1943, underscoring its importance in Portugal's cultural heritage.

4720-627 Rendufe AMR, Amares, Braga, Portugal. | 41° 37' 20.4" N | 08° 23' 27.5" W
+351 253 222 670 | dgpc@dgpc.pt |  Website

Situated in the Peneda Gerês National Park, the Caldas do Gerês Thermal Baths, great for those people who wish to improve their physical and mental health, beauty and self-esteem, whilst taking in the inspiration of the natural landscape that surrounds the complex. Enjoy the diet of the Mineral Water Gerês along with typical products of the region, inhale the aromas of pine and lilies of the Sierra, the detoxifying effect of the purifying and hydrating Honey Gerês and power anti-inflammatory and anti-stress Hypericum Gerês: a genuine all-round sensory experience.

Termas & Spa do Gerês, Av. Manuel Francisco da Costa, 4845-069, Gerês, Portugal.
41° 43' 43.7" N | 08° 09' 43.3" W
+351 255 431 036
hotel@aguasdogeres.pt |  Website