Gondomar, Portugal

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.

Campo Maior Castle

A quiet border town in the heart of the Alentejo, Campo Maior reveals its history slowly. At the centre of it all stands Campo Maior Castle, a weathered fortress shaped by centuries of conflict, resilience, and everyday life. This travel story explores the castle, the town beneath it, and why this overlooked corner of Portugal rewards those who travel without rushing.

Castle of Lamego

High above the town, the Castle of Lamego waits quietly, offering sweeping views, deep history, and a slower way to experience northern Portugal. Reached by a gentle climb through old streets, this hilltop fortress is less about grandeur and more about perspective, silence, and the feeling of standing where centuries once watched the world pass by.