1. Relaxing: We anticipate that this will be the main occupation on holiday as Bouca do Moinho is very "sosagado" (peaceful). We have already installed a couple of hammocks to help.

2. Walking: 'Giao' - the mountain above the village - is crossed by many paths, giving views over the neighbouring countryside. We intend to map these and explore. In addition there are a number of marked trails in the national park. Activity companies also offer guided walks (see links).

3. Swimming: The 'Porte do Mezio' (gateway to the National Park), ten minutes drive away, has a large swimming pool (a 'piscina biologica') which is open to the public. Most of the towns have river beaches ('praia fluvial') and there are a number of pools in the mountains to discover. Arcos de Valdevez, our local town, also has an indoor swimming pool.

4. Horse riding: These mountains are home to the 'garrano', a semi-wild horse. Horse riding is available - see links or ask at the tourist office in Arcos.

5. Archaeology: the area is home to many prehistoric sites as well as more recent roman and medieval remains. There are spectacular iron age 'citania' at Viana, Briteros and Guarda.

6. Wine tasting: the Alto Minho is mainly known for its vinho verde (although many other wines are also produced). It is on the vinho verde wine tasting route and visits to vinyards can be arranged. Our local cooperative is at Ponte de Barca.

7. Sporting activities: canoeing, rafting, gorge-walking etc are organised by local companies - see links.

8. Fishing: Day and weekly licences for both rivers and the artificial lakes ('barragems') are available from ATMs in Arcos.

9. Natural history: The Peneda-Geres is home to real rarities like the Iberian wolf and the Imperial and Golden Eagles. Seeing them is more problematic.

10. Anthropology: The area is recognised within Portugal as one of the few areas where traditional peasant agriculture lingers on, at least for now. There are vigorous efforts to celebrate and preserve these traditions.

11. Sight seeing: The medieval city of Guimares, a world heritage site, Baroque churches like Bom Jesus or Nos Senora de Penedes and the classic castles along the Spanish border are all within easy reach by car.

12. Galicia and the coast: Spain is 30 minutes away to the East or the attractive coast North of Viana de Costelo to Vigo in Galicia is also  reachable as a day trip from the house.