The natural beauty of Portugal's oldest region forms the backdrop for this proud and traditional land.

The Douro river is the longest in northern Portugal. It winds its sinuous way past mountains and cliffs until it reaches the Atlantic near the city of Porto.

History, too, is evoked by the manor houses, such as the Baroque mansion at Mateus, near Vila Real, or in the great 17th century sanctuaries, such as Nossa Senhora dos Remédios in Lamego, which plays such an important role in people's devotions.

Everywhere people keep alive traditions of dance and song (showing strong Celtic influence, as in the Pauliteiros dance of Miranda) and in their secular festivals and processions, which reveal how Christian rituals were grafted onto a much older pagan heritage.

A paradise of unspoiled natural resources, the region is a perfect place for mountain trekking, canoeing or simply resting .

Porto is without doubt the main city in northern Portugal. It has an international airport and all the charms of a riverside community. It also keeps alive traditional values while pushing ahead with a dynamic, innovative spirit in its commercial and industrial life Along the coastline north of Porto runs the road linking Vila do Conde to Valença. It takes visitors past beautiful beaches, summer resorts and enchanting villages, such as Caminha and Vila Nova de Cerveira. Inland, one must visit the huge national park area covering the mountains of Peneda, Soajo and Gerês.