Better known as the doorstep into the Douro Verde region, Marco de Canaveses has the rare privilege of having its territory defined by the international rivers Douro and Tâmega, both born in neighboring Spain.

Defined by its cultural, historical and landscape diversity, this county within the district of Porto is famous for the production of Vinho Verde wine, a product that has garnered several distinctions and prizes in both national and international competitions.

Tamed by man´s hand, both the rivers that cross Marco de Canaveses are foundations for assorted leisure activities: while the Douro has one of the best river beaches in Bitetos (Alpendurada e Matos parish), Tâmega is one of the region´s most sought after watercourses for fishing, jet sky and canoeing sports.

Beyond it´s riverside attractions, the county has also a well-planned network of hiking circuits carefully maintained by a vibrant community of Nature enthusiasts.

On the other hand, the ancient roman city of Tongobriga, one of the most significant of its kind north of the Douro River, attests to this area´s strategical relevance within the wider territory of Northern Portugal and Galiza (Spain).

Marco, as is affectionally referred by its citizens, is also home to a differentiated architectural heritage, such as Siza Vieira´s contemporary work on Santa Maria´s Church (city center) and the Obras de Fidalgo (Fidalgo´s Works), an unfinished 18th century palace in Vila Boa de Quires parish.

Two themed museums round up the sightseeing list: one, within the city´s center honoring Carmen Miranda, renowned international actress born here and another, in Alpendurada e Matos parish, dedicated to the long history of the region´s granite extraction and carving industry.

Speaking of local products, Marco de Canaveses has a long and well established culinary tradition and, as said above, a proven track of excellent wine production. On par with the growing local lodging offerings in rustic houses and villas, food and wine are the perfect ingredients to round up this incredible experience of close contact with Nature and centuries old traditions.