The Minho region in northern Portugal offers a glimpse into the country’s historical roots. The town of Guimarães, considered the birthplace of Portugal, is a must-see with its well-preserved historic center and impressive castle. Further inland, the Peneda-Gerês National Park, the only national park in Portugal, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a more rustic style of Portuguese life, with its hiking trails, mountain landscapes, and charming, traditional villages such as Ponte da Lima with the rebuilt Roman bridge crossing the Lima river.