The northeast of Portugal includes some of the finest scenery and unspoilt countryside, from the remote wilderness of Trás-os-Montes (behind the mountains), to the small medieval towns and traditional customs of the Beiras and to the harsh beauty of Serra da Estrela (the highest range of mountains, rising up to nearly 2000 metres, 6660 feet).

Like most mountainous areas this is a popular place for walkers with fascinating flora and panoramic views.

Bragança, in the extreme north, a walled citadel dating from the 12th century, lies in one of the most rough and isolated regions; its bitter winters likewise affect Guarda (the country's highest town, at 1056 metres, 3520 feet).

Vila Real is a good starting point from which to visit the valley of the river Douro, filled with terraced vineyards which produce wine and Port.

Further south lies Viseu, the graceful capital of Beira Alta that is the centre of the Dão wine-growing region and on the route to the border castles.

In the province of Beira Baixa, whose capital is Castelo Branco, don’t skip Monsanto, voted the most typical village in Portugal.

Regional foods include the country's most famous cheese, named after the Serra da Estrela, where it is still made by hand, and the sausages and cured meats of Mirandela.

During the winter you can ski or have fun tobogganing in Serra da Estrela. The weather conditions are not sufficiently reliable to create a large resort for this sport but the locals are very enthusiastic.

The bare granite of this range of mountains has very short vegetation that doesn’t support more than sheep grazing, which is very important for the production of the regions famous cheese "Queijo da Serra".

The Serra da Estrela is also the name of a special breed of dog known as the "Lord of the Mountain". Intelligent, brave, tender and loyal, this dog has a thick heavy coat that helps it to survive in colder climates.