Braganca -Chaves

Today we continue on the N 103 along the Parque Natural de Montesinho. A fantastic route. One bend follows the next with new, amazing views every time. Luckily we are almost alone on the road.

In Vinhais we stroll through the town. Here, a lot of things have been repaired or rebuilt with European funds, one of the many projects to help northern Portugal get back on its feet. We have a small coffee and then continue to the Rio Rabacao. Here, too, European funds were used to build a bathing facility and a picnic area with a view of a bridge. Very idyllic!

We soon reach the next small mountain range, the Serra da Padrela. In the end we decide to take the turnoff to Tresminas to get to the Roman gold mine. The road is narrow and winding and unfortunately there is little to see of the mine. The complex was prepared for tourism - but then unfortunately left to its fate. What a pity!

Our satnav then leads us astray – we struggle to get out of the town of TresMinas. Luckily our car isn't that wide!

We continue north along the spa road, with healing springs everywhere and sophisticated spa architecture. In Pedras Salgadas we visit the most famous spring in an enchanting spa park.

Shortly before Chaves we reach our campsite. Unfortunately the restaurant promised in our guidebook is closed due to lack of staff and we serve homemade fried potatoes with scrambled eggs.