Writing about Porto is our mission day after day. However, we increasingly want to introduce you to other places that can be an excellent idea for a family outing or a romanticdate. That’s why, this time, we want to take you to Penafiel.
Located about a 40-minute drive away, this municipality belongs to the district of Porto and stands out for its cuisine, natural landscapes, and traditions. Not to mention, of course, some tourist attractions that deserve our attention. Shall we go there?
Located just over a 30-minute drive from Porto, Quintandona is one of our favorite “secret” villages. Here, you’ll find the serenity that’s missing from everyday city life. Instead of the hustle and bustle of traffic, the melodies of nature take center stage.
The village of Quintandona is a must-see not only for those seeking rural destinations but also for those who love schist buildings. What does this mean? Well, you don’t need to go all the way to the Serra da Lousã to enjoy a schist village. After all, you have one right next door.
With just over 60 inhabitants, the village is notable for the vivid blue and stained-glass windows of its century-old chapel, the pillory, and the various granaries. For those who appreciate good food, we also suggest a stop at the Casa da Viúva Wine Bar, an 18th-century property, perfect for a bite to eat.
This is one of our favorite places to visit near Porto. About 300 years old, Quinta da Aveleda is a“little corner” worthy of a fairy tale. Amid vineyards and gardens, you can enjoy various experiences, including tastings of the estate’s wines.
However, when the sun is shining, there’s really nothing better than diving into a guided tour of every nook and cranny of Quinta da Aveleda. After all, there are over 100 species there, including exotic and centuries-old trees, rose mazes, lakes, waterfalls, and much more.
About 40 minutes from Porto, Magikland offers seven hectares of fun that combine adrenaline and water rides. The park features six distinct themed zones, allowing visitors to stroll through a medieval village with a castle, travel to the American Wild West, or explore a giant pirate ship all in a single day.
To beat the heat, the complex offers swimming pools and two large water slides (10 and 80 meters long). In addition to roller coasters and carousels, the grounds feature vast shaded green areas and dining options , ideal for keeping up the pace all day long.
Monte Mozinho Fort
Since we’re self-proclaimed history buffs, we want to highlight the Monte Mozinho Fortified Settlement. So, anyone who thought that contact with fortified settlement culture only existed in Galicia is mistaken . After all, we also have examples right here nearby.
Built in the 1st century AD, this interesting settlement dates back to Roman times and is believed to have been occupied until the 5th century. The Monte Mozinho Fort has a large inhabited area, totaling about 22 hectares.
Excavations at this historic site began in 1943, resumed in 1974, and, according to the Penafiel City Council website, have continued ever since. The settlement is part of the Penafiel Municipal Museum and is also included in the Network of Castles of the Northwest Peninsula.
Broa Museum
In the past, mills were essential for making broa, a typical product of the Northern region that still makes our mouths water today. In Capela, a parish in the municipality of Penafiel, you’ll find the Broa Museum.
Set within a natural landscape that invites you to take a walk in the fresh air, you’ll find a group of six restored windmills. Take advantage of the opportunity, stop by, admire the buildings, enjoy the surrounding greenery, and experience the nostalgia of the past up close.
Penafiel Center
All of the previous options took you to the outskirts of Penafiel, but not exactly to the center. Therefore, our last but certainly not least suggestion invites you to stroll through the city, where you’ll find plenty of points of interest.
For example, there are several restaurants with menus full of traditional fare, but also religious sites to admire. In this regard, Penafiel’s most iconic landmark is undoubtedly the Sameiro Sanctuary, the highest point in the city and one of the most visited sites in the region.
