Chaves is synonymous with historical, heritage and gastronomic wealth. If you've never visited the city, here are several reasons to start your adventure through Alto Tâmega, and we also tell you the places you cannot miss.
With a significant mark left by the Roman civilization, in Chaves the water springs at 76º and has recognized healing properties. At the Termas de Chaves, right in the city's heart, you can enjoy a wide range of treatments and moments of well-being and relaxation, or taste the Thermal Water at Buvete or Fonte do Povo. Continue this journey through Thermalism and the Roman period and lose yourself in the Museum of the Roman Baths, located in Largo do Arrabalde.
A few meters away, walk to the banks of the River Tâmega and find the Roman Bridge of Trajano, a place with centuries of history, where the view over the river becomes a mirror at sunrise or sunset. Jumping the Poldras de Chaves or walking calmly along the Pedestrian Bridge, you arrive at the Public Garden and are able to surrender to nature’s tranquility.
After getting here, it's time to take a break and taste a crunchy Pastel de Chaves, a half-moon-shaped pastry product composed of thin puff pastry stuffed with a mixture of minced veal. You can find it in several places, but the most iconic is the Pastelaria da Dona Maria. In the heart of the city, go to the Castle and up to the Torre de Menagem, from where you will have one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the city.
The Forte de São Francisco and the Church of Santa Maria Maior are other places to visit. Returning to the banks of the River Tâmega, you can also visit the Museum of Contemporary Art Nadir Afonso, designed by the Architect Siza Vieira.
However, don't finish your trip here: the 0 Km of the mythical Nacional 2 is located in Chaves. Follow this road, which passes next to the Parque de Campismo de Chaves – Quinta do Rebentão and travel to Vidago. Relax at the Vidago Pedagogical Spa, known for its Thermal Waters, built from the old railway station building. If you are a Golf fan, get to see the course located at Vidago Palace, which attracts thousands of players annually.