Vila Real: A Hilly City of History, Architecture, and Festivals
Nestled in the hilly landscape in the northern section of the country is the small town of Vila Real, Portugal. Aside from the cozy and countryside atmosphere of the village, it is also home to some of the most interesting preserved historic structures in the area. Vila Real also serves as the capital city of the district of Vila Real.
Best Time to Visit
When you’re in Vila Real in June, you should schedule your trip to coincide with some of the most festive events in town. There is typically three traditional festivals held during this month: the São Antonio on the 13th, the São João on the 23rd, and the São Pedro on the latter part of the month. This makes June the busiest month for the Vila Real, Portugal hotels.
What to Do & Area Attractions
While in Vila Real, you can never be too old to enjoy the scenery at the Carreira Gardens and Parque Natural do Alvao. The Solar de Mateus is also one of the top attractions in the area, mainly because of its century-old buildings that go as far back as the 16th century. If you’re looking for somewhere near the Mateus Palace, you can check out Hotel Quinta do Paço, located within a 12-minute walk. Guests at this upscale hotel can already enjoy free continental breakfast, along with a seasonal outdoor pool and garden. For those after convenience, the Hotel Mira Corgo is your best bet, as this riverfront property is nestled in the heart of the town and within an eight-minute walk from the gardens. Other options include the Casa de Vilarinho de Sao Romao and the Casa Das Torres de Oliveira, which are just 9 miles away.