In Portugal’s lush green north, life has always followed the water. The Douro weaves between steep hillsides, where vineyards have been tended for generations and old quintas look down towards the river. Walk among the vines, drift along the Douro on a solar-powered boat, then settle in for local food and wine with the vineyards still in view.

In the mountains, rivers and waterfalls tumble through the granite peaks and forests of Peneda-Gerês, gathering in natural pools. Mineral springs have shaped life here too. From Vidago and Chaves in the north to the historic spa towns of Central Portugal, taking the waters is a tradition that stretches back generations.

There’s something wonderfully grounded about wellbeing here. Walk through lush forests, soak in mineral waters, eat and drink well or retreat to a contemporary spa overlooking the Douro. So many of the things we travel in search of are simply part of life.