Towns and Villages

Situated between the valley of the River Cávado and the mountains of the Serra do Gerês, this is a very fertile region, known particularly for its oranges and its production of vinho verde.

Right from the early days of Portuguese nationhood, the development of the region around Amares was heavily influenced by the different religious orders that settled here, such as the Benedictines, who founded the monastery of Rendufe in the eleventh century, and the Cistercians, who founded the monastery of Santa Maria do Bouro in the twelfth century.

The spa of Caldelas in the surrounding area is very popular for the healing properties of its waters.