10 Glimpses of Northern Portugal: 7.Pitoes das Júnias

I don’t think you will find many tour buses up here!  This is REMOTE!   Almost on the Spanish border,  this definitely qualifies as Northern Portugal.   Following a recommendation from the tourist office in Montalegre,  and as it was roughly in the direction we were headed that day,  off we went,  25km into the mountains,   to […]

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Vignettes from a Lifetime of Travel

N is for NYC New York has to be my favourite city (after Dublin of course!).   My first visit was in the height of summer,  1983.   As a teacher,  living in temperate climes,  I remember totally glamorising and envying those office workers sitting with their packed lunches in Central Park.  I’ve had the privilege of […]

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10 Glimpses of Northern Portugal: 6.Chaves

This Roman town brings you very close to the Spanish border.   Founded in 78AD,  it was built around thermal springs and its strategic importance led to the construction of strong walls,  towers and a fortress.   It still has a beautiful historic centre and Roman bridge. On Praca de Camoes,  you’ll find many public buildings and […]

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10 Glimpses of Northern Portugal: 5.Parque Natural do Alvao

Sometimes its good to get away for a while from the beautiful churches,  bridges, streets and vineyards.   This park isn’t too far off the beaten track and will definitely clear the head.   There are plenty of hiking trails but its rugged terrain is also lovely just for a drive.   There are a few small villages […]

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