Towns and Villages

Situated close to the River Tâmega, Mondim de Basto was founded in the twelfth century in the reign of D. Sancho I and it still retains many traces of its occupation over the years by the various peoples that passed through here.

Overlooking the town is the Monte Farinha, whose pyramidal shape is reminiscent of a volcano. This mountain rises abruptly to a peak with an altitude of 990 metres, and on its top stands the hermitage of Senhora da Graça, a chapel which is the setting for a popular religious festival held in July.

In the surrounding area, close to the village of Ermelo are the waterfalls of the River Olo, known locally as the "Ermelo Catapult", which are well worth a visit.