Braganca, Portugal, enjoys a certain isolation, as it is located 160 mi/255 km northeast of Porto, in the province of Tras-os-Montes (Behind the Mountains), near the border with Spain. Its insularity ensures that it remains full of character and quiet charm.
This impressive medieval walled city has an interesting castle tower and a 12th-century pentagonal town hall. The granite boars you see there have Celtic origins. Be sure to visit the mask museum to appreciate the costumes used in local traditions.
The nearby Montesinho Natural Park is great for hiking and exploring the community villages such as Rio de Onor, Gimonde and Montesinho.
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