Northern Portugal Healing Waters Self-Drive

Arrive at Oporto International Airport, where our local representative will welcome you and assist with your car hire, providing all necessary information for your departure day. Collect your car and set off for Penafiel, driving through the rolling hills, valleys and rivers of northern Portugal. Enjoy the striking views of the lush Douro and Sousa riverbanks, vineyards and pine forests that cover the landscape. Upon arrival in Penafiel, take a leisurely walk through its charming streets, admiring the traditional architecture, quaint squares and historic churches that predate the founding of Portugal. Overnight in Penafiel.

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely start before driving to the Pinheiro region to visit the renowned São Vicente Spa (entrance at your own expense). This early 20th-century Roman spa is famed for its highly alkaline waters, considered the best in Europe for respiratory treatments. Nearby, you can explore historical sites such as the Benedictine Monastery of Pa?o de Sousa, Penafiel Castle, and the Sanctuary of Sameiro. Be sure to sample the local Vinho Verde, a distinctive green wine, and try regional dishes like lamprey cooked with rice. In the colder months, hearty stews, roasted lamb, and kid goat are popular, while for dessert, sopa seca?a bread pudding flavoured with cinnamon, lemon zest, and a splash of Port?offers a sweet finish. Overnight in Penafiel.

After breakfast, we continue to São Pedro do Sul, where you will stay for the next two nights. This small town lies in the Laf?es valley, surrounded by the Arada, Gralheira and São Mac?rio mountain ranges. The area is known for its lush landscapes, clear, cool waters and secluded villages nestled in the valleys, offering striking natural scenery. Upon arrival, we recommend visiting the Thermal Baths of São Pedro do Sul, which still feature Roman changing rooms, a reminder of the spa's use during the Roman conquest. Just a short drive away is Viseu, an ancient city built from grey stone and noted for its green, vibrant surroundings. Viseu ranks highly for quality of life in Portugal. If you choose to explore, highlights include Casa do Viriato, Viseu Cathedral and the Gr?o Vasco Museum. Overnight in São Pedro do Sul.

After breakfast, you have the option to explore some of the local sites around São Pedro do Sul or visit another nearby thermal spa. The area's wellness centres offer a peaceful setting to relax and recharge, preparing you for the next stages of your journey. You will spend the night again in São Pedro do Sul.

After breakfast, bid farewell to São Pedro do Sul and drive back to Porto. Enjoy the scenic journey, with the option to pause at a local village for a short break. Once checked in at your hotel, take time to explore Porto's vibrant streets. Visit the Serralves Museum and its gardens, climb the Torre dos Cl?rigos for panoramic views, ride the historic trams, and stop by the iconic Livraria Lello bookstore. While in Porto, be sure to try the famous Francesinha?a hearty sandwich of steak, ham, and spicy sausage, layered with melted cheese and a secret hot sauce. Overnight in Porto.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning before making your way to Oporto Airport to return your rental car. Allow plenty of time for check-in as you prepare for your onward flight. This marks the end of your journey through northern Portugal.