The best road cycling routes around Santa Maria Maior

The Roman Baths Museum, recently opened, is a must-see. It is located in Largo do Arrabalde, very close to the current baths. It is the largest Roman bath complex in the Iberian Peninsula. What makes this museum special is that, after an earthquake in the 4th century, the structures collapsed and remained "frozen" in time until they were rediscovered a few years ago. You can see the huge original stone pools where Roman legionaries bathed 2,000 years ago. The Roman Baths Museum What to see: It is the largest Roman bath complex in the Iberian Peninsula. What makes this museum special is that, following an earthquake in the 4th century, the structures collapsed and remained "frozen" in time until they were rediscovered a few years ago. You can see the huge original stone pools where Roman legionaries bathed 2,000 years ago.

The Historic Centre of Chaves is one of the most fascinating in Northern Portugal because it manages to tell the story of millennia—from the Romans to the Napoleonic invasions—in a compact, walkable area. Here are the 4 main reasons why it is worth visiting: 1. The Roman Bridge of Trajan This is the city's landmark and one of the greatest legacies of Roman engineering in the Iberian Peninsula. Why visit: Crossing this pedestrian bridge over the Tâmega River is literally walking over 2,000 years of history. Built in the 1st century AD, it still maintains its robust stone arches. It is the perfect spot for that classic photo of the city with the river and houses in the background. 2. The Castle Keep (Torre de Menagem) & Views Of the old medieval castle, the imposing Keep (a National Monument) remains, surrounded by a very well-kept garden. The Viewpoint: Climbing to the top offers the best panoramic view over the Chaves valley, the river, and the surrounding mountains. Military Museum: Inside the tower, there is a military museum (symbolic entry fee of ~€1) that explains the strategic importance of Chaves in defending the border against Spain and during the French Invasions. 3. The Colorful Balconies of Rua Direita Rua Direita is the backbone of the historic center. Photogenic Charm: It is famous for its narrow houses with colorful wooden balconies, very typical of this region, creating a picturesque corridor full of traditional shops. Praça de Camões: This street leads to the main square, where the noble buildings are concentrated: the Town Hall, the Main Church (Matriz) with its Romanesque portal, and the Misericórdia Church (Baroque, with beautiful tiles inside). 4. The Thermal Heritage Chaves is the city of water (known as "Aquae Flaviae" to the Romans). Just a short walk away, at Largo do Arrabalde, you will find the Roman Baths Museum, a recently musealized archaeological complex showing how the Romans already utilized these medicinal hot waters. Right next to it, you can see (and taste, with caution!) the water springing out at over 70°C (158°F) at the thermal Buvette. Foodie Tip: Don't leave the historic center without entering a pastry shop to try the authentic Pastel de Chaves (PGI). It is a flaky puff pastry filled with minced veal—the perfect snack while exploring the streets.

everything around is beautiful to appreciate

Montalegre is a mountain town, characterized by rugged and uncontaminated landscapes. The medieval castle dominates the landscape and in the surroundings there are prehistoric dolmens that keep alive the link with the past.

Chaves is famous for its many spa centres and thermal baths that are said to cure many ailments. Chaves is a small town in the north of Portugal located near the River Tâmega and not far from the border of Spain. The city also boasts some great architecture which dates back to Roman times and a fort which is a reminder of the war of Independence with Spain.

This castle has long stood on the hill above the town. The Castello can be visited (no admission charge). There is a small exhibition and you can also climb the tower. The castle has been classified as a national monument.

Second highest mountain in Portugal. Great tarmac. Great view for Montalegre and Spain valley. Spot for air sports. There’s a lot of trail for gravel and MTB.

Nice downtown for strolling.