Chaves is a historic city in northern Portugal, located in the district of
Vila Real near the Spanish border.
Its origins trace back to Roman times when it was known as Aquae Flaviae,
named after Emperor Vespasian. The Romans valued the area for its thermal
springs, which remain among the hottest in Europe, with water emerging at
around 73 degrees Celsius. This legacy is still visible today in the Trajan
Bridge, a Roman structure crossing the Tamega River, and in the thermal spa
culture that continues to attract visitors.
Throughout the Middle Ages and into modern history, Chaves held strategic
importance as a frontier stronghold, earning the nickname Key to the Kingdom.
Its castle, built under King Dinis in the 13th century, and the later forts of
Sao Neutel and Sao Francisco reflect its military role in defending Portugal’s
northern border. The city’s layered past combines Roman engineering, medieval
fortifications, and baroque churches, creating a rich architectural and
cultural landscape that speaks to centuries of conflict and resilience.
Today, Chaves blends its historic character with a vibrant local culture.
Visitors can stroll through its old town, taste the famous pastel de Chaves,
and enjoy the therapeutic waters at modern spa facilities. The city maintains
a strong local identity, less crowded than Portugal’s coastal destinations,
while still welcoming international residents and tourists. Its agricultural
valleys, traditional cuisine, and enduring thermal heritage make Chaves a
distinctive destination that embodies both history and well-being.
Suggested Car Tour: Chaves → Curalha → Vidago → Boticas
→ Agrelos → Vilarinho Seco → Alturas do Barroso →
Carvalhelhos → Negrões → Vilarinho de Negrões → Sapiãos
→ Ardãos → Chaves. Route Length: 160km (100mi).
Chaves
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Suggested walking tour in Chaves
Public Garden of Chaves
→ Pedestrian Bridge → Misericordia Church → Flaviense
Region Museum → Chaves Castle → Adega Faustino → Trajano
Bridge → Public Garden of Chaves
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Public Garden of Chaves
The Public Garden of Chaves, located
along the banks of the Tamega River, is the city’s oldest green space.
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Originally private land, it was donated in the early 20th century by
Candido Sotto Mayor, whose bust now stands on the main avenue as a
tribute. The garden is shaded by tall trees, decorated with flower
beds, and features a traditional bandstand that hosts community
events. It offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, where
locals and visitors alike can enjoy leisurely walks, rest in the
shade, and take in the calm atmosphere.
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From the garden, the path naturally leads toward the river, where the
pedestrian-friendly Roman bridge, dating back to the 3rd century,
connects both sides of Chaves. Crossing this historic structure, one
enters the old town, a district rich in medieval and baroque
architecture. Narrow streets, traditional houses with wooden
balconies, and historic landmarks such as the castle tower and
churches reveal the layered history of the city. The bridge itself,
with its Latin inscriptions, is a reminder of Chaves’ Roman origins,
while the old quarter beyond it embodies centuries of cultural and
architectural evolution.
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See more at
Chaves, Portugal - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Public Garden of Chaves → Pedestrian Bridge → Misericordia
Church
Walking route between Public Garden of Chaves, Pedestrian Bridge
and Church of Mercy.
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Church of Mercy
The Church of Mercy in Chaves, known as
Igreja da Misericordia, is a baroque-style building dating from
the 17th century.
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It replaced an earlier 16th-century structure that had fallen into
ruin, and its granite facade reflects a sober mannerist influence with
erudite lines. Located in Praca de Camoes, the church stands out for
its architectural integration with the medieval city wall, as its rear
facade rests directly on the old fortifications. This blending of
defensive and religious architecture makes it a distinctive monument
in the historic center of Chaves.
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Inside, the church is notable for its richly decorated 18th-century
azulejos, which cover the walls with biblical scenes and motifs. The
single nave design emphasizes simplicity while allowing the tilework
and altarpieces to dominate the interior atmosphere. Corinthian
pilasters, a large pediment, and niches on the facade add to its
baroque character, while the interior decoration highlights the
artistic craftsmanship of the period. Together, these elements make
the Church of Mercy not only a place of worship but also a cultural
landmark that reflects the evolution of Chaves from medieval
stronghold to baroque town.
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See more at
Igreja da Misericórdia de Chaves - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by ManuelBarreira, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.
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Church of Mercy → Flaviense Region Museum
Walking route
between Church of Mercy and Flaviense Region Museum.
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Flaviense Region Museum
The Flaviense Region Museum, located
in Praca de Camoes in the historic center of Chaves, was established in
1929 to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the region.
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Since 1978, it has been housed in the Palace of the Dukes of Braganca,
a 17th-century building that has served various roles over time,
including barracks, military prison, and library. The museum’s mission
is to raise awareness of the richness of Flavian culture, with a
strong focus on archaeology and prehistory. Its permanent exhibitions
highlight the long history of the area, from prehistoric settlements
to the Roman period, while temporary displays expand on specific
themes of local heritage.
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The museum holds an impressive collection of Roman artifacts,
including ceramics, coins, mosaics, engraved stone milestones, and
tombstones, all excavated from the surrounding region. These exhibits
illustrate the importance of Chaves as Aquae Flaviae during Roman
times, when it was a thriving settlement known for its thermal waters.
In addition to archaeology, the museum also features a painting
exhibition dedicated to the local artist Nadir Afonso, further
enriching its cultural scope. By combining historical preservation
with artistic appreciation, the Flaviense Region Museum serves as both
a guardian of the past and a center for cultural identity in northern
Portugal.
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See more at
Museu da Região Flaviense - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by ManuelBarreira, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.
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Flaviense Region Museum → Castle of Chaves
Walking
route between Flaviense Region Museum and Castle of Chaves.
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Castle of Chaves
The Castle of Chaves is a medieval fortress
built during the reign of King Dinis in the 13th century to defend
Portugal’s northern frontier.
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Its most prominent feature is the imposing keep tower, which rises
above the town and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley
and the Tamega River. The castle was part of a larger defensive system
that included walls and bastions, reflecting Chaves’ strategic
importance as the Key to the Kingdom. Despite later modifications, the
keep remains the best-preserved element, standing as a symbol of the
city’s military past.
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Today, the castle houses the Military Museum of Chaves, which
showcases weapons, uniforms, and artifacts spanning several centuries
of Portuguese military history. The museum highlights the role of
Chaves in conflicts such as the Restoration War and the Peninsular
War, when the town was a key stronghold against foreign invasions.
Visitors can explore the exhibits inside the keep while enjoying the
views from its battlements, making the site both a cultural and
historical landmark that connects the medieval origins of Chaves with
its enduring military heritage.
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See more at
Castle of Chaves - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Raquel N. Rodrigues, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0
license.
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Castle of Chaves → Adega Faustino
Walking route between
Castle of Chaves and Adega Faustino.
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Adega Faustino
Adega Faustino in Chaves is a traditional
restaurant with nearly a century of history, transformed in 1992 into a
typical regional eatery.
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Its rustic interior features long wooden tables, stone floors, and
large wine barrels behind the counter, creating an authentic
atmosphere that reflects the culinary traditions of northern Portugal.
The restaurant is not only known for its food but also for its
cultural offerings, including a small museum, an art gallery, and
occasional evenings of Fado music, making it a landmark of local
heritage and conviviality.
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Among its specialties, Adega Faustino is particularly famous for
Pica Pau, a beloved Portuguese dish consisting of small pieces
of marinated beef or pork sautéed with garlic, mustard, and pickles,
often served with bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish is a
staple of tavern-style dining and is especially popular as a shared
snack among groups. At Adega Faustino, Pica Pau is prepared
with care, embodying the essence of regional flavors and standing out
as one of the restaurant’s most recommended offerings. It represents
the balance of simplicity and taste that defines traditional
Portuguese cuisine.
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See more at
Restaurante Adega Faustino - Homepage
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Photograph by Miguel Vieira, distributed under a CC-BY e.0 license.
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Adega Faustino → Roman Bridge of Chaves → Public Garden of
Chaves
Walking route between Adega Faustino, Roman Bridge of Chaves and
Public Garden of Chaves.
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Roman Bridge of Chaves
The Roman Bridge of Chaves, also
known as Ponte de Trajano, is one of the finest examples of Roman
engineering in Portugal.
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Built at the end of the 1st century or the beginning of the 2nd
century AD, during the reign of Emperor Trajan, it originally had
around 18 arches, though today 12 remain. Stretching 140 meters across
the Tamega River, the bridge was a vital part of the infrastructure of
Aquae Flaviae, the Roman settlement that later became Chaves. It not
only facilitated movement and trade but also symbolized the strength
and permanence of Roman rule in the region.
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Over the centuries, the bridge has undergone restorations, but it
still retains much of its original granite structure. Two
commemorative columns, known as the Padrão dos Povos, stand on the
bridge, inscribed with dedications from local communities to the
Flavian emperors. Today, the bridge is pedestrianized, allowing
visitors to walk across and admire both the engineering and the views
of the town. It remains a central landmark of Chaves, linking the
modern city with its Roman past and serving as a reminder of the
enduring legacy of Roman architecture.
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See more at
Roman Bridge of Chaves - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by GFreihalter, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.
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Chaves → Curalha
Driving route between Chaves and
Curalha.
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Curalha
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Castro da Curalha
Castro da Curalha, located near Chaves, is
an ancient fortified settlement that reflects the organization and
defensive strategies of protohistoric communities in northern Portugal.
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The site is defined by three concentric lines of walls forming an
ellipsoidal enclosure, with the first wall reaching a thickness of
about five meters and containing three gates. Reinforcing the
defenses, a field of upright stones was placed from the northeast to
the north-northeast. The second wall, positioned close to the first,
has a single entrance, while the third wall is only partially visible
to the northwest. Together, these fortifications illustrate the
importance of protection and control in the settlement’s design,
emphasizing its role as a secure habitation site.
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Within the enclosure, excavations have revealed a structured
arrangement of rectangular buildings attached to the walls, sharing
dividing walls and opening onto paved streets. One main street begins
at the east gate, splitting in two directions and following the
contour of the wall, while continuing westward around the rocky massif
at the center. Additional houses in the central area are aligned with
doors facing the same side, suggesting another street served them.
Foundations of circular and rectangular structures indicate varied
construction techniques and functional spaces. The organized layout,
with streets and grouped dwellings, highlights the social and
architectural sophistication of the community that once inhabited
Castro da Curalha.
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See more at
Curalha - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Curalha → Vidago
Driving route between Curalha and
Vidago.
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Vidago
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Thermal Springs of Vidago
Termas de Vidago, located
within the Parque de Vidago, form part of the elegant grounds of
the Vidago Palace Hotel in northern Portugal.
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The palace itself was built in the early 20th century as a luxurious
retreat, designed to attract visitors to the region’s famed mineral
waters. The gardens surrounding the hotel are expansive and carefully
landscaped, blending natural beauty with architectural refinement.
They provide a serene environment where guests can stroll among
tree-lined paths, fountains, and ornamental flowerbeds, all while
enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the park.
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The thermal springs of Vidago are the centerpiece of this setting,
long celebrated for their therapeutic properties. The spa facilities
within the palace integrate these waters into treatments that combine
tradition with modern wellness practices. Visitors can experience both
the grandeur of the historic hotel and the restorative qualities of
the mineral springs, making Termas de Vidago a destination that unites
natural health, leisure, and cultural heritage. The gardens, with
their harmony of design and nature, serve as the perfect backdrop to
this unique combination of luxury and tradition.
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See more at
Termas de Vidago - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Marta.i.sousa, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.
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Thermal Springs of Vidago → Church of Our Lady of the
Conception
Walking route between Thermal Springs of Vidago and Church of Our
Lady of the Conception.
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Church of Our Lady of the Conception
The Church of Our Lady
of the Conception in Vidago was built in the 1940s and is a fine example
of neo-Romanesque architecture.
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It is set within a spacious earthen churchyard, flanked by large trees
and enclosed by a low wall, giving the site a tranquil and welcoming
atmosphere. The portals, pillars, and tympanums are carefully
decorated, reflecting the craftsmanship and attention to detail
typical of the period. Its location in Vidago, a town known for its
thermal waters and elegant gardens, makes the church an important part
of the cultural and spiritual landscape of the region.
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Inside, the church continues the stylistic harmony of its exterior,
with a design that emphasizes both solemnity and beauty. The structure
is simple yet dignified, serving as a place of worship and community
gathering for the local population. Its architectural style connects
Vidago’s religious heritage with broader trends in Portuguese
ecclesiastical design of the mid-20th century. Together with the
surrounding park and thermal traditions, the Church of Our Lady of the
Conception contributes to Vidago’s identity as a destination where
history, spirituality, and natural beauty coexist.
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See more at
Vidago - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by José Antonio Gil Martínez, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0
license.
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Vidago → Boticas
Driving route between Vidago and
Boticas.
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Boticas
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Suggested walking tour in Boticas
Garden of the Town Hall
→ Galician Warrior → Boticas Parish Church → Ribeiro do
Fontao Leisure Park → Wine of the Dead
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Garden of the town hall in Boticas
The garden of the town
hall in Boticas is a pleasant public space that combines greenery with
cultural symbolism.
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At its center stands the statue of the Galician warrior, a figure that
recalls the ancient roots of the region and its connections to the
Castro culture of northern Portugal and Galicia. The statue,
surrounded by landscaped paths and flowerbeds, serves as both a
decorative and historical landmark, reinforcing Boticas’ identity as a
town proud of its heritage. The garden itself offers a calm setting
for residents and visitors, complementing the civic architecture of
the town hall.
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A visit to Boticas can be enriched by exploring the municipal market,
where a typical house showcases and sells regional products such as
smoked meats, honey, and local wines. This space highlights the
agricultural traditions of the area and provides an authentic taste of
its gastronomy. Another worthwhile stop is the Boticas Rural Museum,
which preserves and interprets the rural life of the region through
exhibits of tools, crafts, and traditions. Together, these sites
create a cultural itinerary that connects the symbolic warrior statue
with the living heritage of Boticas, blending history, community, and
local flavor.
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See more at
Boticas- Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Turismoenportugal, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0
license.
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Boticas Parish Church
The Boticas Parish Church, also known
as the Church of Nossa Senhora da Livração, was built in the late 19th
century and stands as the main parish church of the town.
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Its facade is marked by a rectangular portal topped with an oval
oculus and finished with a simple pediment crowned by a granite cross.
A square bell tower, added later, rises beside the church with four
openings for bells. Inside, the walls are decorated with painted
biblical scenes, including the miracle of the multiplication of the
loaves and fishes, while the triumphal arch displays a panel of the
Ascension of Christ. The church also contains four gilded altars, with
the main altar occupying the entire head wall of the sanctuary, making
it a striking example of religious art and devotion in Boticas.
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To complement a visit to the parish church, one can explore the nearby
chapel of Santo Aleixo, a smaller but historically significant site
that reflects the rural religious traditions of the region. For a
broader view of the surrounding landscape, the Seirrãos viewpoint
offers panoramic vistas over the valleys and hills of Boticas,
highlighting the natural beauty that frames the town. Together, these
sites provide a balanced experience of spiritual heritage and scenic
discovery, connecting the architectural and cultural identity of
Boticas with its natural environment.
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See more at
Boticas- Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Ribeiro do Fontao Leisure Park
Ribeiro do Fontao Leisure
Park in Boticas is a natural retreat designed for relaxation and outdoor
enjoyment.
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Nestled in a green valley, the park features shaded picnic areas,
walking paths, and spaces for family activities. Its layout integrates
the natural landscape with recreational facilities, making it an
inviting place for both locals and visitors. The sound of running
water from the Ribeiro stream adds to the tranquil atmosphere, while
the surrounding vegetation provides a refreshing escape from the town
center.
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From the leisure park, a pleasant walk leads to the nearby reservoir,
offering a scenic route through the countryside. The path allows
visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Boticas, with views of rolling
hills and the calm waters of the reservoir at the end. This walk
combines leisure with discovery, making it an ideal complement to time
spent in the park, and highlights the harmony between the built
environment and the natural resources of the region.
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See more at
Boticas- Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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💡 Tip
Wine of the Dead
Vinho dos Mortos, or Wine of the Dead, is a unique tradition from
Boticas in northern Portugal that dates back to the early 19th century
during the French invasions.
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In 1808, as invading troops advanced, locals buried their wine
underground to prevent it from being looted. When peace returned and
the bottles were unearthed, the wine had developed distinctive
qualities due to its time spent beneath the earth. This practice gave
rise to the name Vinho dos Mortos, symbolizing a wine that had been
hidden away and then resurrected, carrying with it the resilience and
ingenuity of the people of Boticas.
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Today, Vinho dos Mortos is produced as a regional specialty in
Trás-os-Montes, particularly in Boticas, which is part of the
FAO-recognized World Agricultural Heritage site of Barroso. The wine
is aged underground for one to two years, a process that enhances its
flavor and aroma, making it a sought-after curiosity among Portuguese
wines. It is celebrated not only for its taste but also for the story
it embodies, linking modern production with a centuries-old act of
survival and creativity. Visitors to Boticas can explore this
tradition at the local historical repository dedicated to Vinho dos
Mortos, where the cultural and historical significance of this
remarkable wine is preserved.
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See more at
Vinho dos Mortos - Wikipedia.
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Boticas → Covas do Barroso
Driving route between
Boticas and Covas do Barroso.
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Covas do Barroso
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Church of Covas do Barroso
The Church of Covas do Barroso,
also known as the Church of Santa Maria, is a medieval parish church
classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1967.
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Built in the Romanesque style, it dates back to the 14th century and
is considered one of the most remarkable examples of religious
architecture in the Barroso region. Its austere granite exterior is
complemented by decorative details such as corbels and a finely worked
frieze. Inside, the single nave is paved with granite slabs and
features painted coffered ceilings and 18th-century mural paintings.
The church also preserves significant sculptures, including the Gothic
image of Santa Maria carved in Anca stone and the tomb of Afonso Anes
de Barroso, a squire of the Duke of Braganca, dated 1459.
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A visit to Covas do Barroso can be enriched by exploring the nearby
Castro do Lesenho, one of the most important fortified
settlements of the Castro culture in northern Portugal. This ancient
site, associated with Galician warrior traditions, offers a glimpse
into the protohistoric communities that once inhabited the region. The
ruins, with their defensive structures and commanding views over the
surrounding valleys, evoke the resilience and martial spirit of the
people who lived there. Together, the Church of Santa Maria and the
Castro do Lesenho create a cultural itinerary that combines
medieval religious heritage with the prehistoric legacy of warrior
societies, making Covas do Barroso a destination of both spiritual and
historical significance.
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See more at
Covas do Barroso - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by GFreihalter, distributed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.
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Covas do Barroso → Beça
Driving route between Covas do
Barroso and Beça.
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Beça
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Parish Church of Beça
The Parish Church of Beça, located in
the municipality of Boticas, is a small but significant religious
building that reflects the rural character of the region.
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Dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Assunção, it combines simplicity with
traditional architectural features typical of northern Portugal. Its
granite construction and modest design emphasize functionality and
devotion, serving as a focal point for the local community’s spiritual
life. The churchyard and surrounding landscape add to its charm,
making it a peaceful place that embodies the cultural identity of
Beça.
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A visit to Beça can be enriched by exploring the trout farm on the
Beça River, an attraction that highlights the natural resources and
sustainable practices of the area. The farm provides insight into
local aquaculture and offers visitors the chance to see trout raised
in clean river waters. It is not only a place of production but also a
destination for leisure, where the beauty of the river valley can be
appreciated. Together, the parish church and the trout farm create a
balanced experience of cultural heritage and natural discovery in this
part of Boticas.
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See more at
Beça - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0 license.
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Parish Church of Beça → Church of São Bartolomeu
Walking route between Parish Church of Beça and Church of São
Bartolomeu.
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Church of São Bartolomeu
The Church of São Bartolomeu in
Beça, Boticas, is a small historic chapel that reflects the
architectural and cultural essence of rural Portugal.
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Its interior features a wooden vaulted ceiling and stone walls built
from large rectangular blocks, creating a sense of solidity and
tradition. The stone-tiled floor and rows of wooden pews lead to an
altar adorned with religious artifacts, candles, and floral
arrangements. Arched niches and integrated columns add detail to the
structure, while a large chandelier suspended above the central aisle
provides warm illumination. Light enters through open wooden doors and
small windows, enhancing the chapel’s inviting atmosphere.
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This church complements the Parish Church of Beça, dedicated to Nossa
Senhora da Assunção, which was described earlier as a modest granite
building serving the spiritual needs of the local community. Together,
these churches represent the layered religious heritage of Beça, with
São Bartolomeu offering a more intimate setting for worship and
reflection. As previously noted, a visit to Beça can also include the
trout farm on the Beça River, adding a natural and educational
dimension to the experience. The combination of sacred architecture
and local traditions makes Beça a meaningful destination in the
municipality of Boticas.
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See more at
Beça - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Turismoenportugal, distributed under a CC-BY 4.0
license.
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Beça → Alturas do Barroso
Driving route between Beça
and Alturas do Barroso.
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Alturas do Barroso
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Alturas do Barroso
Alturas do Barroso is a mountain village
in the municipality of Boticas, known for its elevated terrain and
sweeping views of the Barroso region.
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The village sits at an average altitude of over 1000 meters, offering
expansive panoramic views across the rugged landscape of northern
Portugal. It is surrounded by the Serra do Barroso, part of the
Peneda-Gerês mountain system, and is close to some of the highest
peaks in mainland Portugal. From various points in the area, visitors
can take in uninterrupted vistas of valleys, forests, and distant
ridgelines. These views are especially striking along local hiking
trails, which pass through natural lookouts at elevations exceeding
1100 meters, making the region a favorite among walkers and nature
enthusiasts.
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The terrain around Alturas do Barroso is marked by traditional stone
villages, grazing lands, and patches of native woodland. The peaceful
setting and high vantage points allow for clear skies and far-reaching
visibility, ideal for photography and quiet reflection. The village
itself retains its rural charm, with a low population density and a
strong connection to the Barrosã cattle-raising tradition. Whether
exploring the trails or simply pausing at one of the many natural
viewpoints, Alturas do Barroso offers a deep sense of place rooted in
both nature and heritage.
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See more at
Alturas do Barroso - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by Pedro Dias, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Alturas do Barroso → Alto Rabagão Dam
Driving route
between Alturas do Barroso and Alto Rabagão Dam.
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Alto Rabagão Dam
The Alto Rabagão Dam is one of Portugal’s
most impressive hydroengineering feats, combining power generation with
scenic beauty in the Montalegre region.
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Completed in 1964, the Alto Rabagão Dam—also known as Barragem do Alto
Rabagão—is a mixed concrete arch and gravity structure built on the
Rabagão River, part of the Cávado River Basin. It stands 94 meters
high and stretches nearly 1,970 meters in length, making it one of the
largest dams in Portugal. The dam creates a vast reservoir with a
surface area of 22.12 square kilometers, used for hydroelectric power
and water supply. Its spillway can discharge up to 500 cubic meters
per second, and the reservoir holds over 568 million cubic meters of
water, supporting both energy production and regional water
management.
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Beyond its technical significance, the Alto Rabagão Dam is a magnet
for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding landscape,
with its deep blue waters, rugged terrain, and small islands, offers
breathtaking panoramic views reminiscent of Scottish highlands. The
area is popular for fishing, boating, and hiking, and the scenic roads
around the reservoir provide a peaceful escape into one of Portugal’s
most pristine environments. The dam exemplifies how human engineering
can harmonize with nature, transforming a remote mountain region into
a destination of ecological and recreational value.
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See more at
Alto Rabagão Dam - Wikipedia.
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Photograph by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Alto Rabagão Dam → Castro de Carvalhelhos
Driving route
between Alto Rabagão Dam and Castro de Carvalhelhos.
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Carvalhelhos
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Castro de Carvalhelhos
Castro de Carvalhelhos, located in
the parish of Beça in Boticas, is one of the most important fortified
settlements of the Castro culture in northern Portugal.
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Built during the Iron Age and later occupied in Roman times, it was
classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1951. The site is
strategically positioned overlooking the valley of the Ribeira das
Lameiras, near the Carvalhelhos spa, and features a complex defensive
system with three concentric walls, three moats, and a field of
upright stones. Excavations have revealed both circular and
rectangular dwellings, as well as access ramps and fortified
structures, highlighting the sophistication of its defensive and urban
planning.
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Archaeological campaigns carried out over several decades have
uncovered a vast collection of artifacts, including tools, ceramics,
and evidence of daily life, which provide insight into the communities
that inhabited the site. The walls, some reaching up to 4 meters in
height and 3.5 meters in thickness, demonstrate the strength of its
fortifications. Today, Castro de Carvalhelhos is not only a historical
monument but also a cultural attraction, with informative signage and
accessible paths that allow visitors to explore its ruins. It stands
as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the ancient peoples
of the Barroso region, offering both historical depth and panoramic
views of the surrounding landscape.
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See more at
Boticas- Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Castro de Carvalhelhos → Carvalhelhos Thermal Park
Driving route between Castro de Carvalhelhos and Carvalhelhos
Thermal Park.
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Carvalhelhos Thermal Park
The Carvalhelhos Thermal Park,
located in Boticas in the Barroso region, is a historic spa complex
renowned for its mineral-rich waters and natural surroundings.
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Situated at about 800 meters of altitude, the park lies at the foot of
a pre-Roman castro settlement, blending cultural heritage with
wellness traditions. The thermal springs, often referred to as
Caldas Santas de Carvalhelhos due to their reputed healing
powers, produce bicarbonated sodium waters with a natural temperature
of around 20°C and a pH of 8. These waters have long been recommended
for therapeutic treatments, particularly for skin conditions,
digestive issues, circulatory problems, and detoxification.
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Beyond its medical uses, the Carvalhelhos Thermal Park offers a
tranquil environment for rest and relaxation. The facilities include
fountains, a buvet for drinking the waters, locker rooms, and leisure
areas surrounded by the lush Barroso mountains. The thermal season
typically runs from mid-July to mid-September, with treatments
available Monday through Saturday. Visitors can enjoy both the health
benefits of the springs and the scenic beauty of the park, making
Carvalhelhos a destination that combines natural therapy, cultural
history, and rural charm.
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See more at
Termas de Carvalhelhos - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Vitor Oliveira, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0 license.
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Carvalhelhos Thermal Park → Vilarinho de Negrões
Driving route between Carvalhelhos Thermal Park and Vilarinho de
Negrões.
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Vilarinho de Negrões
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Vilarinho de Negrões
Vilarinho is a small locality in the
parish of Negrões, within the municipality of Montalegre.
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Nestled in the northwesternmost corner of the parish, it lies about 20
kilometers from the town of Montalegre.
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Renowned as one of the most picturesque villages in the region,
Vilarinho charms visitors not only with the preservation of its
traditional houses but also with its unique setting on a narrow,
scenic peninsula. Just nearby stands Negrões, its twin village,
distinguished by the presence of a traditional granite oven.
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The inhabitants of Vilarinho continue to devote themselves to
agriculture and shepherding, maintaining the same way of life that has
sustained the community for generations.
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See more at
Vilarinho de Negrões - Wikipedia.
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Photographs by Gabriel González, distributed under a CC-BY 2.0
license.
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Vilarinho de Negrões → Chaves
Driving route between
Vilarinho de Negrões and Chaves.
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Suggested Car Tour
Suggested Car Tour Map
Where to Stay in Chaves
Hotels Map
Where to Eat in Chaves
Restaurants Map
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💡 Tip
Local Culinary Traditions
- Bread
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Folar de Chaves – A traditional bread filled with cured meats,
especially pork, often enjoyed during Easter
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Centeio (rye bread) – Common in the Trás-os-Montes region, forming
the base of many meals
- Soups
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Caldo à Transmontana – A hearty regional soup made with local meats
and vegetables
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Cozido à Transmontana – Though more of a stew, it is often served as
a soup-like dish with rich broth and assorted meats
- Fish Dishes
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Bacalhau (Codfish) – Prepared in various local styles, reflecting
Portugal’s national love for cod
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Variants include oven-baked or stewed cod, often paired with
potatoes and olive oil
- Meat Dishes
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Pastel de Chaves (IGP) – Iconic puff pastry filled with minced veal,
recognized with Protected Geographical Indication
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Presunto de Chaves (Ham) – Famous smoked ham, celebrated locally and
abroad
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Arroz de Fumeiro – Rice cooked with assorted smoked meats and
vegetables
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Alheira (Smoked Sausage) – Traditional sausage made with bread,
garlic, and mixed meats
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Cabrito Assado (Roast Kid Goat) – A festive meat dish typical of the
region
- Sweets
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Rabanadas com Mel – Sweet fried bread slices drizzled with honey,
especially popular at Christmas
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Folar de Chaves (sweet variant) – Sometimes prepared as a sweet
bread with sugar and spices
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Pastel de Chaves – Though savory, it is also considered a signature
pastry of the region
- Wine
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DOC Trás-os-Montes – Sub-região de Chaves – Local designation of
origin wines, produced in the Chaves sub-region, known for freshness
and mountain character
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Aqua Flaviae wines – Named after the Roman heritage of Chaves,
crafted from local vineyards
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Where to Go to Bars and Pubs in Chaves
Bars and Pubs Map
See Also
Source
