In the extreme northeast corner of the country is Tras-os-Montes ("Behind the Mountains"), Portugal's wildest region, with tiny medieval townships.

The best-known attractions are the baroque Mateus Palace close to Vila Real, Bragaça's castle and alluring old town center, and the ancient town of Chaves.

But for the most part the region consists of magnificent countryside and sleepy little villages, two of which, Miranda do Douro and Rio de Onor, seem to be in a world of their own.

Top 5 EXPERIENCES in Trás-os-Montes

1. Strolling through the beautiful formal gardens and interior of Mateus Palace in Vila Real.
2. Crossing a 2-millennium-old Roman bridge before visiting the attractive spa town of Chaves.
3. Taking in Bragança's medieval atmosphere from inside its well-preserved citadel.
4. Getting away from it all and going back centuries at the Montesinho Natural Park.
5. Spending some time in Miranda do Douro and Rio de Onor, two sleepy villages with ancient traditions.

Places to Visit in Trás-os-Montes

Vila Real - A delightful baroque palace Bragança - An old castle; mysterious stones; one of Europe's wildest regions Chaves - A 2-millenium old Roman bridge