The spas and vineyards of Northern Portugal

For centuries we have taken advantage of the qualities of natural mineral waters for health and recreational purposes. Portugal is blessed with natural springs particularly in the centre and north. With those springs have emerged over many years many wonderful hotels.

Vidago is a village in the north of Portugal. It has been renowned for its spring waters since the 17th century. Water from Vidago has been bottled since 1886 and can still be tasted directly from the source in its highly concentrated and naturally carbonated form from one of the four spring fountains that reach the surface in the park lands surrounding Vidago Palace.

The curative characteristics of the waters of Pedras Salgadas have been known for centuries. In 1873 following an international show in Vienna it was decided to build the Balneario Termal. In 1875 a company was formed to explore the natural waters and in 1879 Termas de Pedras Salgadas opened to the public. In 2009 the Spa was revitalised and the new owners built a series of Eco Houses for accommodation. And so was born Pedras Salgadas Spa and Nature Park.

From the coast to the Spanish border Portugal’s Centre and North offers history, culture, national parks, mountains and villages of granite and schist. River and ocean beaches. The giant waves in Nazare where American surfer Garrett McNamara rode a 100 foot high wave.

Portugal may be well known for the wine produced in the Douro Valley. However, the Dao River as it carves its way through granite rock is one of Portugal’s most promising wine regions. Its best red wines are made from the Tinta Roriz and Touriga Nacional grapes and its finest example of white wine is based upon the Encruzado grape.

On your journey to Quinta dos Três Rios you will experience the warmth and hospitality of the people, the culture, and the produce of central and northern Portugal. Quinta dos Três Rios is situated just outside the village of Parada de Gonta. A small village of less than 1000 people, here you will find yourself in the real Portugal. Your hosts Hugh and Jane are English but will immerse you in real Portugal, its wine and food.

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