Discovering the Heart of Northern Portugal: Caldas de Vizela
Wandering through the winding streets of Caldas de Vizela, you’ll soon realize this isn’t your typical tourist destination. It’s off the beaten path, tucked away in northern Portugal and from the moment you step foot in the town, it’s clear it’s a place of pure cultural authenticity. This was the core of my travel motivation stepping off the late-night train from Porto.
My first day was a blend of urban sketching and soaking in Vizela’s architectural beauty. I decided to practice my watercolour painting on my Ipad, capturing the stunning mix of colors that fade through the buildings’ washed plaster- the subtle vintage aesthetics only enhanced by the slight wear and tear.
Living through Tradition: A Colourful Encounter
What dramatically sets Caldas de Vizela apart is its local traditions. I was unexpectedly lucky to witness one of these annual ceremonies, the Festa das Cruzes. It was an explosion of colour and emotion, people dancing in the streets dressed in traditional clothing, and everyone was laughing, dancing, and feasting. I had always been a cautious adventurer but I found myself swept up into the festivities. Every beat of the drum, every shout of joy, radiated a sense of unity I had not experienced in a long time.
But let me warn you, these feasts can be intense. Between the sea of people, the heat, and copious amounts of Matosinhos wine, it can be a bit overwhelming. My advice to anyone lucky enough to attend is to stay hydrated and up for the adventure. Remember, there’s a difference between merely observing a culture and immersing yourself in it. And as a traveller, the later always leaves a stronger impact.
The Miraculous Views of Penha
From Caldas de Vizela, a short drive took me to Penha, an elevated wonder that provided the opportunity to burn off the feast’s calories. The uphill hike was worth every sweat drop as I was rewarded with panoramic views that stretched across the picturesque landscape.
Jotting this down in Morse code, a unique skill of mine, to record my travel notes in an innovative way, I whispered quietly, “P-E-N-H-A, I must return.” My DSLR was at the ready, capturing the breathtaking vistas, and as an avid photographer, I couldn’t help but fall in love.
A Culinary Adventure at Kebab World
Let’s clear this up: I’m no stranger to local delicacies, and I’ve learned that not every place can serve you great sushi or a hearty Irish stew, my favourites. My culinary adventure took a twist when I discovered Kebab World, a small eatery tucked away near the bustling marketplace. The Doner Kebab was an explosion of flavours, not overly spicy, but rich enough to keep me coming back.
Leaving Caldas De Vizela: A Bittersweet Goodbye
Having spent most of my time exploring cities that offered me train views and distant landscapes, Caldas de Vizela caught me by surprise. I fell in love with its simplicity, the warmth of its people, the traditional ceremonies and the authentic food that was served with love. It wasn’t your typical travel location, and perhaps, as someone who collects quirky coffee mugs and gets lost in new cities, it felt like the perfect place for me.
Returning home, I found myself reflecting on the enriching experience. The watercolour memories I held from Caldas de Vizela were more vibrant than any others. I realized if you’re brave enough to step off the beaten path, you’ll discover more than what meets the eye. And in the end, isn’t that what travelling is all about?
As this echoes through my mind, my only regret was not spending more time there. But on a positive note, I did add a beautiful coffee mug to my collection. Wouldn’t you want to get lost in such an enchanting town? I know I would. And again, I will.