Attractions and Places To See around Amares - Top 20

Amares is rich in history, featuring several significant religious and architectural sites. You can visit the 12th-century Monastery of Santa Maria de Bouro, which has been beautifully restored. Another notable site is the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Abadia, considered Portugal's oldest Marian sanctuary, with its current structure dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Don't miss the Monastery of Santo André de Rendufe, known for its impressive architecture and Rococo-style gold carvings. For a unique historical experience, explore the ancient Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a religious building offering panoramic views and a notable stairway.

Yes, Amares offers stunning natural beauty and several viewpoints. The region is bordered by the Cávado and Homem rivers, providing picturesque landscapes. You can enjoy scenic views from the Nossa Senhora da Paz Viewpoint or the São Pedro de Fins Viewpoint, which also features a popular swing. While not entirely within Amares, the breathtaking Peneda-Gerês National Park is easily accessible, offering lush forests, crystal-clear rivers, and spectacular waterfalls. For a unique man-made natural feature, visit the Ernesto Korrodi's Artificial Grotto of Bom Jesus, known for its stone walls and small waterfall.

Amares is an excellent base for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking, mountain biking, and cycling routes in the surrounding areas. For hiking, explore easy trails like those around Bom Jesus Park. Mountain bikers can tackle more challenging routes such as the São Pedro de Fins loop. Cyclists can enjoy longer tours like the Ponte do Porto – Caniçada Reservoir loop. For more detailed routes and options, check out the guides for easy hikes, MTB trails, and cycling routes around Amares.

Absolutely! Amares has several attractions suitable for families. Bom Jesus Park is a well-kept forest area with lakes, an artificial grotto, and landscaped grounds where families can rent a rowing boat or have a picnic. The Ernesto Korrodi's Artificial Grotto of Bom Jesus is also a popular spot, especially on hot days. Additionally, the Largo do Pelicano, with its symbolic fountain, offers a pleasant stop for families after exploring the area.

Amares is fortunate to be bordered by the Cávado and Homem rivers, offering several river beaches perfect for relaxation and swimming. On the Cávado River, popular spots include Barreiros, Ombra, Verim, Barquinho, and Quinta do Rio river beaches. Along the Homem River, you can find Torre, Moinhos, Loureira, Moleira, and Felinhos river beaches. The Garrafas Riverside Beach is another excellent option for spending time by the water.

Visitors frequently praise the combination of historical grandeur and natural beauty. Many highlight the impressive architecture and panoramic views from sites like the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte. The well-maintained grounds of Bom Jesus Park and the unique Ernesto Korrodi's Artificial Grotto are also highly appreciated for their beauty and photo opportunities. The tranquility of the area and the opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling are also frequently mentioned as highlights.

Yes, Amares is home to significant examples of ancient civil architecture. The Rodas Bridge over the Homem River is an ancient medieval bridge classified as a National Monument, offering a glimpse into historical engineering. Another notable structure is the Porto Bridge over the Cávado River, which also holds historical significance. These bridges provide excellent photo opportunities and a connection to the region's past.

Yes, for relaxation and wellness, you can visit the Caldelas Thermal Baths. These baths are renowned for the healing properties of their waters, offering a relaxing experience for visitors looking to unwind and rejuvenate.

The Caniçada Dam is an impressive man-made monument located in the Braga district, near Amares. It dams the Cávado River and its tributary Rio Gerês, forming a beautiful four-armed reservoir. Visitors can enjoy fantastic views of the lake and surrounding landscape from the dam. It also provides quick access to both banks of the river, and part of the lake area belongs to the Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Yes, Urjal Village is a mountain village known for its natural beauty, unique landscapes, and typical houses. Visiting Urjal offers a journey back in time, allowing you to experience the traditional charm and serene atmosphere of the region.

For a lovely green space perfect for outdoor enjoyment, you can visit the 4 Caminhos Picnic Park in Santa Marta. It's an ideal spot for families or anyone looking to relax and have a picnic amidst nature.

Largo do Pelicano is a square that serves as a resting point after the climb along the Escadórios do Bom Jesus. It features a fountain crowned with the figure of a pelican, which symbolizes parental love and, in Christian iconography, represents Christ's sacrifice. The square was redesigned in 2015 and offers a moment of reflection in view of the mighty basilica.