Melgaço is one of the lesser known Portuguese villages. Nonetheless, it’s also a very charming and picturesque village with a beautiful landscape and lovely vineyards. It is also part of the Vinho Verde wine route near the Minho river and home to the renowned Alvarinho (a special caste of green wine). Historically, it’s also a town with a deep historical heritage as there are vestiges since prehistorical times as well as several megalithic monuments from that period.
Melgaço is the northernmost town of Portugal. It’s situated in the Viana do Castelo District in the north of Portugal along the Minho river, 150 km (93 miles) from Porto. It also borders Spain and its only 52 km (32 miles) from the Vigo airport.
The weather is generally nice most of the year, although, there is a bit of rainfall in the winter months of November through February, and an even chance of snow. The average yearly temperature in Melgaço is between 12°C (50°F) to 26°C (78.8°F). The warmest months to visit are August, July, and September. However, you can also visit anytime between April and November as the weather is mostly pleasant in these months.
What to do, see and visit in Melgaço…
Built between the 12th and 13th century, situated at the top of the hill overlooking the village. It served as a strategic fort especially protecting Portugal from invasions from Spain. The summit offers unobstructed views of the surrounding hills, Peneda-Gerês National Park and the village.
Also built in the 12th century, located in the historic center of the village, you will find the Mother Church, which is also referred to as the “Igreja Paroquial de Melgaço” or “Igreja de Santa Maria da Porta”. The most important thing to see here is the interior of the church, it houses an altarpiece dating as far back as the 16th century.
This is a must see in Melgaço especially for vinho verde lovers. In this place, you will see all the brands of Alvarinho wine produced in the Municipality, some of which are available for tasting. There are also regional and traditional products to sample and for sale here.
Situated in the historic center of Melgaço, close to the Mother Church and Solar do Alvarinho, you can explore the ruins of the republic square. To gain access, you will have to take a few stairs down as it is underground. In there, you will see a collection of well-preserved archaeological ruins and some vestiges related to the old fortress.
Dedicated to preserving the recent history of the municipality, related to smuggling and emigration, this Space takes visitors through the stories of History. It has a room dedicated to smuggling and a ramp, along which the different moments related to emigration are portrayed, such as the causes, the preparation for the trip and the journey, the arrival and the experience in the host country, without forgetting the consequences of the emigration in the municipality.
If you are a film and cinema enthusiast this is unmissable, here you will see exhibitions related to the history of Cinema. These collections include posters and photographs, silent movie time machines, modern film equipment and more which have been curated over time. The museum also houses an extensive collection of the famous French filmmaker Jean-Loup Passek, whom the museum is named after.
The Castro Laboreiro Museum Center is located in the headquarters of the former Caravelos Chocolate Factory.
Dedicated to the history and tradition of the parish of Castro Laboreiro, the largest and oldest in the municipality, this center disseminates aspects related to the landscape and local experience, particularly with regard to Brandas, Inverneiras and Planalto. In the house attached to the headquarters, a typically Castro construction, the atmosphere of a local house in the second half of the 20th century is portrayed.
It has a documentation center and, on the top floor, a space where you can watch films about Castro traditions.
Trails near Minho River
If you like walking or hiking, the trails in the village around the Minho river are perfect for nature walks. Some of the trails near the Minho are:
• Lamas de Morouro Interpretive Rail – This is a small route located very close to the Peneda-Gerês National Park through the beautiful rural landscape of Lamas de Mouro.
• Curro da Velha Trail – This route is about seven kilometers, between the Serra da Peneda and the Laboreiro Valley.
Radical Sports
If you would also like to engage in some other fun activities in Melgaço, you will have a few options some of these activities include canyoning, rafting, hydrospeed, rappel, and pendular jump.
I’ll be more than happy to share my experience with you, after almost 23 years living in Portugal.
I’ll also walk you through Portugal using Google Maps, show you the best Cities or communities and neighborhoods that match your ideal lifestyle and budget, and go over the moving and buying process as well as the best Visa process to establish residency and ultimately Citizenship.
If you have not made up your mind that Portugal is the home for you, and want to learn all about Portugal’s rich culture, tantalizing gastronomy, exquisite wine culture, real estate opportunities, and the latest updates in the ever-evolving real estate landscape, then visit the Infinite Solutions BLOG, register and be the first to receive by e-mail any new posts. Join us on this exciting journey to discover your future home sweet home!!!
As a seasoned realtor with 23 years of firsthand experience living in Portugal, I am here to guide you through every step. From virtual tours using Google Maps to identifying the ideal cities, communities, and neighborhoods that match your lifestyle and budget, I’ll make your transition smooth and informed
Proud Member of
Comments