Fontão – Bridges, Manor Houses and Paths by the Water

Fontão combines a flat landscape close to the river with historic buildings and varied paths. The most prominent elevation is Monte de São Cristóvão. Those looking for a holiday apartment can choose between cultural discoveries, short hikes and nature experiences in the protected area of the lagoons of Bertiandos and São Pedro de Arcos.

Historic Buildings with Their Own Character

One of the notable reminders of the area's history is the Ponte do Arquinho. The single-arch bridge dates from the modern era and served the old royal road between Ponte de Lima and Viana. Another detail worth seeing is the gate of Quinta de São Bento, which dates from 1734. The grounds include a private chapel dedicated to Saint Benedict. It dates from the 16th century and contains a granite-carved altarpiece. In front of the chapel there is also a Cruzeiro bearing an inscription.

Casa do Retiro also reflects the region's architectural heritage. The manor house dates from the early 19th century and stands on a 10-hectare estate featuring typical Minho architecture. In addition to the threshing floor, the property includes one of the largest stone granaries in the region. A stream with clear water on the grounds is suitable for swimming and trout fishing. Casa Grande dates back at least to the 17th century in its origins and has a distinctive three-storey tower at its northeastern corner. The historic buildings also include Quinta da Casa Grande, which was built in the 18th century.

Hiking Trails, Crosses and Chapels

The Rota dos Cruzeiros is a short hiking trail with markings and signs that meet international standards. Its route necessarily passes the Cruzeiros of São Pedro d'Arcos and Fontão and also reaches the Capela de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. The 18th-century Cruzeiro of Fontão has a fluted shaft bearing a depiction of the Mother of God. The parish church of Fontão has a façade facing this Cruzeiro, which dates from the 18th century.

A chapel dedicated to Saint Christopher was built on Monte de São Cristóvão in the 17th or 18th century. Near the Capela de São Cristóvão, remains are interpreted as those of a small medieval watch post on which the present-day chapel was built. Fontão therefore offers several historic points of interest that can be incorporated into a travel plan according to the desired focus. Families and other travel groups can choose between a culturally oriented tour and more active nature experiences, without having to commit to just one type of holiday.

Lagoons and Paths by the Water

The protected area of the lagoons of Bertiandos and São Pedro de Arcos encompasses two lagoons and the banks of the Estorãos River. Its administrative area also includes Fontão. There are five signposted hiking trails with observation, conservation and information facilities. This combination of bodies of water, riverbanks and marked paths makes the protected area a distinct focus for visitors who want to explore the landscape as well as historic buildings.

Another connection in the surrounding area is the Ecovia das Lagoas. It connects the town of Ponte de Lima with the Ribeira da Silvareira stream in Fontão. Depending on your travel plans, this allows you to combine a stay featuring historic sights, nature observation and paths through the landscape close to the river. A holiday apartment or holiday home in Fontão is particularly suitable if you want to experience the character of the town itself and divide your days between culture and landscape.

More Places to Consider

If you would like to compare other location pages in addition to Fontão, you can find Poiares, Calvelo, Beiral Do Lima, Labrujó, Refóios Do Lima, Vitorino das Donas, Gaifar and Estorãos here.

For the higher-level travel overview: Ponte De Lima.