Parque Natural de Montesinho

In the far north-east of Portugal, along the border with Spain, the Parque Natural de Montesinho protects a landscape of granite hills, chestnut and oak woods and small traditional villages. It is one of the least populated and most authentic corners of the country.

A mountain landscape

The park covers the mountains north and west of Bragança, with altitudes rising above 1,400 metres. Its climate is harsh in winter and its villages, built of granite and slate, preserve the ways of life of the Trás-os-Montes mountains. Wildlife includes wolves, deer and birds of prey.

What to see and do

• The traditional villages of Rio de Onor, Montesinho and others.
• Walking routes through the hills and along the rivers.
• Views over the mountains and into Spain.
• Local gastronomy, including chestnuts, honey and smoked meats.

Visiting the park

The park lies north and west of Bragança, in Trás-os-Montes. Access is free; for trails and local information, check the official website before your visit.

Visitor information: icnf.pt.

Image credit: Parque Natural de Montesinho, by Vitor Oliveira, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.