Esposende
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ESPOSENDE

Once a thriving fishing village, the lovely seaside resort of Esposende lies at the mouth of the river Cávado. Its golden sands and excellent bathing conditions attract visitors from Porto and the North during the season months. Although essentially a laid-back resort, Esposende does offer a range of activities and places to go out in the evenings without spoiling its charm. Within the old town can be found many traditional buildings and quaint squares. Sights to be seen include the ruins of the 18th-century fortress, the 16th-century Igreja de Misericordia and the chapel of Our Lord of the Navigators with its impressive ornate paintings and gilt carvings.

THE TOWN

Esposende

|Monument to the Men of the Sea (Ao Homem do Mar Esposende)

Monument to the Men of the Sea (Ao Homem do Mar Esposende)

A recognition of Esposende's links to the sea can be found in the Largo Rodrigues Sampaio. Five large bronze figures constructed in 1997 face the ocean and pay tribute to those who lived and gave their lives for their fishing trade.

The Pillory (Esposende Pelourinho)

Close by in Marquês of Pombal Square is the town's pillory, a symbol of municipal power, carved from granite, it consists of a hexagonal column atop a square stepped base. The capital is adorned with floral motifs an orb and a cross. Its original home was in front of the town hall before being moved to its present position. It has been classified by IPPAR as Property of Public Interest (IPP).

Municipal Museum

Located on the first two floors of the Theatre Club building, both the original building and its more recent extension were designed by distinguished Portuguese architects. Esposende has been occupied since the iron age. Archaeological finds such as stone artefacts and ceramics have been found in the many excavations in the area. The museum has two permanent exhibitions dedicated to the Ethnography and History of Esposende.

NORTH COAST NATURAL PARK (PARQUE NATURAL DO LITORAL)

Located at the mouth of the Cávado river and stretching two and a half miles out to sea is one of the most beautiful stretches of Portugal's northern coastline, the protected park known as the Parque Natural do Litoral Norte (North Coast Natural Park). Covering 1237 hectares of beach, dunes, salt marshes, forests and estuaries. The park is a habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna, fish, reptiles and animals. Humans too have left their mark here. Disused windmills blend naturally into the landscape, their inner workings now replaced by holidaymakers. The hardy dune grasses bind the dunes together and offer shelter to the low-lying farmland where seaweed is still used to fertilise crops.

People come here to enjoy the long line of excellent beaches, swim in the clear waters, take long invigorating walks along the wooden boardwalks and enjoy the scenery. Bird watchers lookout for birds such as capped herons, terns, mallards and herring gulls. The dunes importance in preventing coastal erosion led to this area becoming a protected nature park in July 2005, encouraging the growth of maritime thistle, beachgrass and sea cudweeds not only to anchor the dunes into place but also preserves important wildlife - which in turn attracts visitors.

Ofir and Fão

On the south bank of the Cávado river and part of the Parque Natural do Literal Norte lies Ofir, an expanse of golden, sandy beaches which are often compared to the Algarve, ideal for bathing, surfing and windsurfing. The sleepy village of Fão where you can find the old Roman camp of Belinho and the Banho Monastery ruins, as well as great views over the river. Look out for the village market every Saturday.

North Coast Natural Park (Parque Natural do Litoral Norte)

|North Coast Natural Park (Parque Natural do Litoral Norte)


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CASTRO SÃO LOURENÇO

Castro São Lourenço

|Castro São Lourenço

A settlement occupying the North side of a hill dating back to the Bronze age and a later addition dating from the 5th century containing circular and elongated structures organised in family compounds. Some of the buildings and town structure have been re-constructed offering the visitor an inside into Castro life. It's thought the settlement was the hub of a trading network but was abandoned during the 5th century AD. Situated in the parish of Vila Chã, district of Esposende, the settlement has been classified as a Public Interest Site since 1986. The PR6 10km trekking route takes you past the Castro São Lourenço settlement and other historic sites. More About [ ► ]

Monte de São Lourenço, Vila Chã 4740 Esposende, Portugal. | 41º 34" 20.0' N | 08º 44" 48.7' W

TOP TOURS

Barcelos, Ponte de Lima & Viana Private Tour (All Inclusive)

Barcelos, Ponte de Lima & Viana Private Tour (All Inclusive)

Explore the Alto Minho region on this comprehensive tour from Braga. With a guide in the lead, you'll follow a carefully curated itinerary that is all arranged for you; just simply sit back and enjoy the ride and the scenery. Highlights include the village of Arcos de Valdevez, the town of Ponte de Lima, and the city of Viana do Castelo. Midday, stop for a traditional Portuguese lunch that enables you to learn about and taste Portuguese cuisine. Convenient pickup and drop-off in Braga. Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned minivan.

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Porto Private Transfer to Esposende

Porto Private Transfer to Esposende

Skip the long lines for taxis and the hassle of navigating public transportation when you arrive at the Porto Airport, or by train at Campanhã or São Bento. Book this private transfer and travel in comfort and safety from the airport to your central Esposende hotel with a professional driver. Experience a personal meet and greet at the airport arrivals hall or train station. Sit back and relax in comfort in an air-conditioned vehicle and get useful tips from the driver on the top places to visit.


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Barcelos, Braga and Guimarães Tour from Esposende

Barcelos, Braga and Guimarães Tour from Esposende

First discover the historic centre of Barcelos, famous for its colourful ceramics, medieval monuments and for creating Portugal’s national symbol. In Braga, you will find a religious city with more than 2000 years of history and Portugal’s oldest cathedral, the famous sanctuary and ancient attractions. Discover the delightful medieval centre of Guimarães. You will see why this historical city was warranted as UNESCO World Heritage. You will also visit the castle and the Palace of the ´Duques de Braganza`.

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QUINTA DA BARCA GOLF COURSE

Quinta da Barca Golf Course

|  Quinta da Barca Golf Course

As part of a holiday complex that includes a marina and Aparthotel, this nine-hole course has many water hazards and strategically placed bunkers which are sufficient enough to improve the skills of most players as well as being suitable for the learner golfer. The holes are sporadically placed over an undulating topography and attractive vistas across the river Cávada. Services include: driving range, putting green, pro shop, lessons, marina, swimming pool, tennis, restaurant and bar. Handicap Certificate: Men 36 - Ladies 36.

Tuesday - Sunday: 08h30 - 20h00, Monday: CLOSED

Contact Details
Lugar da Barca do Lago, Gemeses, 4740-493 Esposende, Portugal. | 41º 31" 01.2' N | 08º 44" 39.3' W
+351 253 966 723 | info@golfebarca.com |  Website


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The Course

Inauguration year:

1997

Holes:

9

Par:

31

Distance:

2,012m

Architect:

Amenities

Practice Areas:

Driving Range, Putting Green, Golf Academy

Hire:

Clubs, Buggies, Trollies

Lessons:

Individual, Group

Club House:

Shops, Restaurant

Main Events:

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OUR RECOMMENDATIONS

Hotel Parque do Rio

Hotel Parque do Rio ★ ★ ★

Situated along the river Cávado in the Ofir pine forest and a short walk to the beach. Surrounded private gardens providing tranquillity and relaxation. This unit hotel features 36 en-suite rooms, central heating, air conditioning, satellite TV, and a private balcony. It features two outdoor swimming pools and sun loungers. Guests may enjoy a light meal and a drink at the hotel's snack bar by the pool.

Caminho Padre Manuel Sá Pereira, 4744-908 Esposende, Portugal.
41° 27' 12.5" N | 08° 17' 45.3" W | +351 253 517 184

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Esposende Guesthouse

Esposende Guesthouse

Bordering the edge of the World Heritage centre lies this four-star hotel which blends a modern atmosphere with good old fashioned hospitality. Hotel de Guimarães features a spacious indoor pool and offers rooms with cable TV. Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, the city walls and the Salado Monument are within a 15-minute walk. The air-conditioned accommodation at Hotel de Guimarães features contemporary furnishings and an LCD TV. They come equipped with a safety deposit box and a minibar. The restaurant D. Maria is decorated in warm colours and offers panoramic city views. It serves a buffet breakfast and seasonal Mediterranean cuisine. The Piano Bar serves a selection of beers, wines and refreshments. Guests of the Hotel de Guimarães can relax in the sauna, and enjoy a massage or body treatment. The hotel also boasts a large fitness centre.

29 Rua Conde Agrolongo, 4740-239 Esposende, Portugal.
41° 31' 51.1" N | 08° 46' 55.2" W

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Axis Ofir Beach Resort Hotel

Axis Ofir Beach Resort Hotel ★ ★ ★ ★

On one side is the extensive ocean with a beach of golden sand. On the other, the clear waters of the river Cávado. Between both, an enormous area of dunes, covered by dense pinewood. The green and the blue, everything is a perfect combination to free the body and the soul. Enjoy a comfortable stay at the Ofir Hotel of Axis Group.
The Hotel consists of 191 rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with a complete bathroom, air conditioning, Satellite TV, direct dial phone, Minibar and balcony. The Restaurant reveals a spectacular panoramic view over the beach and the Atlantic Ocean, where one can enjoy a classic sunset dinner setting.

Av. Sousa Martins - Ofir, 4740-405 Esposende, Portugal.
41° 30' 57.7" N | 08° 47' 07.7" W | +351 253 989 800

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OUR CHOICE

Pizzaria Di Pappi

Pizzaria Di Pappi

This popular and friendly Italian restaurant is ideally placed on the Largo Fonseca. It's reasonably priced pizzas and italian dishes ore of excellent quality and portions are typically large.

Wednesday - Monday: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 - 23h00, Tuesday: CLOSED
5 Largo Fonseca Lima, Esposende, Portugal. | 41° 31' 52.4" N | 08° 46' 51.4" W
+351 253 968 069 | lfmps@hotmail.com


Restaurante Pé no Rio

Restaurante Pé no Rio

A modern setting with amazing views over the river Cávado, Pé no Rio offers a great night out with it's excellent restaurant, terraces and bar.

Tuesday - Saturday: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 - 22h00, Sunday: 12h00 - 15h00, Monday: CLOSED
Av. Eng. Arantes e Oliveira, 4740-204, Esposende, Portugal.
41° 32' 04.8" N | 08° 47' 04.7" W
+351 935 010 010
restaurante@penorio.pt


Tio Pepe

Tio Pepe

Located in the heart of Vila de Fão, Tio Pepe is one of the oldest restaurants in the area offering visitors the best of traditional Portuguese cuisine. Retaining its familiar feature, the restaurant has over three decades of experience, which appeal to the tasting of the finest flavours, always accompanied by a careful selection of the best national wines. In a cosy, rustic yet modern space, Tio Pepe invites you to sit at the table and challenges you to taste our many delicacies.

Wednesday - Monday: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 - 23h00, Tuesday: CLOSED
Rua dos Bombeiros 4, Fão, 4740, Esposende, Portugal.
41º 30" 50.2' N | 08º 46" 21.2' W
+351 253 981 510 | geral@tiopepe.com.pt

Esposende is 154km (95.6 miles) North of Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport PORTO.
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From Porto take the A28 50km (31 miles) north, from Braga the the A11 west 35 km (22 miles) and from Viana do Castelo 25km (15.5 miles) south on the A28.
Latitude - 41° 31' 51.55" N Longitude - 08° 46" 56.73" W

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The closest train station to Esposende is in Barcelos 14.9km (9 miles) east: Train Timetable | Comboios de Portugal Website

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