Activities for All Tastes
The region between Guimarães, Braga and Gerês offers activities for everyone — from culture and history to adventure and outdoor sports. All accessible from Casa do Xico in Guardizela.
Culture and History
- Guided tour of Guimarães historic centre (15 min) — themed routes through the UNESCO Heritage site
- Alberto Sampaio Museum — medieval goldsmithing and sacred art in the former Collegiate cloister
- Vila Flor Cultural Centre — excellent contemporary programming in Guimarães
- Tibães Monastery (Braga) — 11th-century Benedictine monastery with baroque gardens
- Citânia de Briteiros — Celtic ruins over 2,000 years old
Nature and Adventure
- Hiking at Monte da Penha (20 min) — trails among granite rock formations, caves and viewpoints
- Kayaking at Caniçada Reservoir (1h) — calm waters surrounded by mountains in Gerês
- Canyoning in Gerês (1h) — descending waterfalls and natural pools with a guide
- Mountain biking at Serra da Cabreira (30 min) — mountain trails for all levels
- Stand-up paddle on the Cávado river (45 min) — a peaceful experience in a natural setting
Local Experiences
- Vinho Verde tastings — regional wine estates with tastings and guided tours
- Local markets — every Saturday in Guimarães, fresh produce and handicrafts
- Handicraft workshops — pottery, weaving and traditional Minho embroidery
- Thermal baths — Caldas das Taipas (20 min) for a relaxation day
For Families with Children
- Pool at Casa do Xico — saltwater, safe and private
- Penha Cable Car — children love the aerial ride over the city
- Gerês river beaches — crystal-clear waters in a natural setting
- Guimarães City Park — spacious green areas to play
Sports
- Golf — Axis Ponte de Lima Golf (45 min), 18-hole course in a green setting
- Surfing — Cabedelo Beach in Viana do Castelo (45 min)
- Rock climbing — natural walls at Monte da Penha with routes for various levels
After a day of activities, return to Casa do Xico and relax by the pool with mountain views. Book here.