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Mountain Trails, Contemporary Art & Rural Traditions
From Lisbon/Cascais | February 13th – 16th, 2026 | 4 Days | Private Cultural & Hiking Tour
Discover the Minho region’s authentic character on this exclusive 4-day weekend escape. Hike through spectacular mountain valleys and along scenic river pathways, explore contemporary art galleries and a magnificent 17th-century palace, step back in time at a traditional farming museum, and savor Vinho Verde tastings at a family estate. Each day combines outdoor adventure with deep cultural immersion in one of Portugal’s most beautiful regions.
Experience four distinctive hiking routes through northern Portugal’s diverse landscapes:
Coastal Lagoon Trail – Walk an 11.6km circular route (approximately 2.5 hours) through one of Portugal’s most scenic lagoon systems. Follow wooden walkways and canal-side pedestrian paths through diverse coastal ecosystems and protected wetlands, perfect for birdwatching and observing coastal flora. Pass through historic old town centers with centuries-old architecture where maritime traditions have shaped the local culture. Experience waterfront areas where preserved seafaring heritage meets regional gastronomy. Easy terrain ideal for nature observation.
Riverside Ecovia Trail – Experience a 14.5km easy circular route (approximately 4 hours) following both banks of a major river. Walk through riverside paths, wooden boardwalks, and ecovia sections with magnificent river views. Pass small river beaches, dense vegetation zones, and shaded rest areas. Easy terrain suitable for all ages.
Mountain Valley Trail – Explore a 12km circular route (approximately 3.5 hours) ascending to panoramic viewpoints revealing stunning mountain valleys and traditional settlements. Cross rivers, follow ancient church pathways through villages, and climb to historic mountain lookouts. Features traditional granaries, religious heritage sites, and stunning Alto Minho landscapes. Moderate difficulty with elevation changes.
Urban Sculpture Park Trail – Discover a 10.6km circular route (approximately 3-4 hours) connecting urban parks and gardens transformed into an open-air contemporary art experience. Walk through oak and cork forests along a major river while encountering permanent outdoor installations created by renowned international artists. Works crafted from granite, steel, marble, and iron create an intimate relationship between art, nature, and public spaces, with dozens of original contemporary pieces integrated throughout interconnected green spaces. Moderate difficulty.
Visit a magnificent 17th-18th century aristocratic residence showcasing Portuguese residential architecture with ornamental interiors, tilework, and formal gardens. The palace features ceremonial spaces including grand halls, monumental staircases, and interior garden courtyards, housing collections of decorative arts, musical instruments, and period furnishings.
Explore contemporary art galleries in historic urban settings featuring rotating exhibitions by regional and Portuguese artists. Gallery spaces include converted historic buildings showcasing modern and contemporary works, providing insight into the Minho region’s vibrant art scene.
Experience local cultural festivities celebrating regional traditions and artisan crafts during your visit.
Step back in time at an authentic early 20th-century farmer’s house museum preserving rural Portuguese life. Explore recreated traditional workshops including tailor shops, barber shops, shoemaker’s shops, blacksmith’s forges, taverns, carpentry workshops, wine cellars, and agricultural tool displays. Experience the preserved residential sections with period furniture, clothing, and household items revealing everyday life in this traditional farming community.
Unwind at historic thermal spa facilities nestled in a tranquil natural mountain setting. Enjoy the therapeutic thermal immersion pool featuring natural mineral-rich waters renowned for wellness benefits. Additional treatments including hydrotherapy and massages are available for purchase on-site.
Savor exceptional Minho cuisine at carefully selected traditional restaurants throughout your journey. Experience daily lunches featuring regional specialties, fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional preparations showcasing authentic flavors of the Minho region’s diverse culinary heritage.
Visit a family-run Vinho Verde estate set in the heart of the Minho wine region. Tour the winery and cellar while learning about traditional Vinho Verde production methods. Enjoy wine tastings paired with regional petiscos (small plates) featuring local specialties, surrounded by centuries-old olive groves, orange trees, and vineyards.
✅ Door-to-door private transportation in comfortable air-conditioned minivan from Lisbon/Cascais
✅ Daily traditional restaurant lunches featuring authentic regional cuisine
✅ Vinho Verde wine tasting at family estate with regional petiscos
✅ Thermal spa immersion pool with natural mineral waters
✅ All entrance fees to palaces, museums, galleries, sculpture parks, and cultural sites
✅ Contemporary art gallery visits with rotating exhibitions
✅ Heritage museum visits including rural life interpretive centers
✅ Four guided hiking experiences on scenic trails
✅ Urban cultural exploration including sculpture parks and historic gardens
❌ Accommodation (choose from carefully selected properties with booking assistance)
❌ Dinners at curated local restaurants
❌ Personal expenses
Active cultural travelers, hiking enthusiasts seeking authentic Portuguese experiences, contemporary art fans, couples, families, and friend groups wanting private, personalized multi-day adventures combining outdoor activity with deep cultural immersion. Ideal for those who appreciate traditional rural life, scenic hiking, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries.
This tour requires good physical health and fitness for daily hiking activities including routes with moderate elevation changes and varied terrain. Not suitable for people with mobility issues.
Duration: 4 Days | Group: Private (1-6 guests) | Style: Active cultural immersion with daily hiking
Dates: February 13 – 16, 2026 (other dates available upon request) | Reserve your private Minho adventure today!
Ready to explore the Minho region’s authentic heritage through scenic trails and mountain villages? Contact us to secure your exclusive weekend escape where rural traditions meet natural beauty!
1 – person solo option – €2,295.00
2- people – €1,495.00 per person
3-4 people – €1.095.00 per person
5-6 people – €895.00 per person
Registration Includes:
Does not include:
(The end time is approximate. This time may change depending on conditions and participants)
See the unforgettable moments and stunning landscapes you can find there
