Gondomar sits quietly along the Douro, just east of Porto, offering a slower, more lived-in side of northern Portugal. Known for its gold filigree craft, riverside paths, and everyday local rhythm, it’s a place to settle into rather than rush through.
Perched atop the Serra da Arrábida, Palmela Castle offers a journey through Portugal’s layered history. From its Roman origins to Moorish expansions and its role in the Christian Reconquista, the castle blends medieval architecture with breathtaking views of the Setúbal Peninsula, inviting visitors to explore centuries of heritage and culture.