Recreation and golf holidays in north Portugal
There are many activities from which to choose when visiting north Portugal.
In the immediate area of Parada, or within easy reach either by road or by train (see this page for details) there are endless beaches, swimming pools, walking, touring, karting and golf - click for more details. Porto itself is a fascinating city for those interested in historical buildings and monuments and the centre of the port wine industry offers many opportunities to sample and buy your favourite tipple.
In this part of the country, there are many spas where you can take the water and historical towns with good shops and weekly markets, such as Braga, Barcelos, Ponte de Lima, Guimarães, Amarante, Vila Real, Monçao. Seaside resorts such as Vila de Conde, Póvoa de Varzim, Viana de Castelo and Caminha have all the facilities for the specialist activities associated with the seaside, sun and sand.
Those interested in food and wines will be in their element since the Portuguese, very particular and enthusiastic about food themselves, ensure that restaurant standards are kept extremely high regardless of the price asked. Generally, price is affected most by surroundings and the extent of the menu. A good meal will be delivered to your table even in the humblest restaurant or café with juicy pork, smoked meats, tender veal and salt cod available everywhere. Shell fish, octopus, barbecued chicken, suckling pig and a splendid choice of fish are also widely available. Light draft lager type beers brewed in Portugal are really excellent whilst the very extensive choice of breads and delicious pastries is a special feature of Portuguese life.
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These pictures show the modern new electric locos on the left and the diesel locos which haul older aluminium rolling stock.
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Unlike the UK, a single integrated company runs a reliable, comfortable and affordable railway - the new trains are air-conditioned
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