Our Stories - iTravelPortugal

The Cerdeira Village Project: Where Tradition Meets Creativity

July 11, 2024 / 1376 / 0

Located amidst the greenery of the Serra da Lousã mountains in central Portugal, the Cerdeira Village Project is a testament to the transformative power of community, creativity, and cultural preservation. Originally a traditional mountain village, Cerdeira underwent a remarkable revitalization initiative to breathe new life into its historic streets and buildings. Today, Cerdeira stand as a thriving hub of creativity, attracting artists, writers, and travelers from far and wide. The village’s charming cobblestone streets and rustic stone houses provide the perfect backdrop for ceramic workshops, residencies, and cultural events that celebrate traditional arts and contemporary expression. In harmony with its...

Rui Rodrigues

The Mirandese Donkey: A Treasured Heritage, Community, and Conservation

July 11, 2024 / 1380 / 0

In the picturesque region of Trás-os-Montes, Portugal, the Mirandese Donkey stands tall, not just in stature but also in cultural significance. Revered for its resilience, intelligence, and gentle disposition, this unique breed has woven itself deeply into the fabric of local communities, symbolizing tradition, solidarity, and sustainable living. For generations, the Mirandese Donkey has been an indispensable partner to farmers, serving faithfully in agricultural endeavors and forging strong bonds with its human counterparts. Initiatives led by groups like the AEPGA (Associação para o Estudo e Proteção do Gado Asinino) focus on breeding programs, education, and advocacy to ensure the Mirandese...

Rui Rodrigues

Vinho Verde: The Premium Refreshing Wine

July 11, 2024 / 1337 / 0

Vinho Verde, literally translating to “Green Wine,” hails from the verdant landscapes of northern Portugal. This unique premium wine is renowned for its light, crisp, and slightly effervescent character, making it a refreshing choice for wine enthusiasts. Produced in the Minho region, Vinho Verde is not green in color but rather named for its youthful freshness. It can be either white, red, or rosé, though the white variety is the most widely known. The Atlantic Ocean’s influence provides a cool, damp environment ideal for growing the grapes that give this wine its characteristic acidity and slight fizz. The flavors of...

Rui Rodrigues

The Masks Tradition in Trás-os-Montes: A Vibrant Heritage

July 11, 2024 / 1332 / 0

In the remote and picturesque region of Trás-os-Montes in northern Portugal, the tradition of masks is a vivid and ancient cultural practice that continues to captivate both locals and visitors. This tradition, deeply rooted in the area’s rural communities, features prominently in several festivals throughout the year, particularly during winter and early spring. The most famous of these celebrations is the Festas dos Rapazes (Boys’ Festivals), held around the New Year, where young men don elaborately carved and brightly painted masks. These masks, often representing mythical figures, animals, or exaggerated human features, are made from wood, leather, or other local...

Rui Rodrigues

Pão de Ló do Soajo: A Sweet Tradition

July 11, 2024 / 1308 / 0

In the heart of the Soajo region, nestled within the scenic Peneda-Gerês National Park, lies a culinary treasure: Pão de Ló do Soajo. This traditional Portuguese sponge cake, known for its light and airy texture, is a beloved delicacy that has been prepared over generations. Pão de Ló do Soajo is made using simple, high-quality ingredients—eggs, sugar, and flour—that are carefully combined to create its distinctive, fluffy consistency. The people of Soajo take great pride in this sweet tradition, which is more than just a dessert; it is a symbol of their cultural heritage and hospitality. Pão de Ló is...

Rui Rodrigues

Gavieira Village: Harmony with Nature

July 11, 2024 / 1261 / 0

Tucked away in the scenic Peneda-Gerês National Park, Gavieira is a charming village that embodies the essence of rural Portugal. Surrounded by forests and mountain landscapes, Gavieira is a haven for those seeking tranquility and a connection to nature. The villagers of Gavieira are known for their strong sense of community and dedication to preserving their traditional way of life. Agriculture and livestock farming remain central to their existence, with many families practicing age-old farming techniques passed down through generations. Gavieira is also a place where traditions are deeply cherished. Festivals, local crafts, and culinary traditions are integral to the...

Rui Rodrigues

Castro Laboreiro Village: A Timeless Tradition

July 11, 2024 / 1262 / 0

Located in the rugged mountains of northern Portugal, at more than 1.100 meters,Castro Laboreiro is a village steeped in history and tradition. Known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, this village is home to a resilient community that celebrate its heritage and customs. The people of Castro Laboreiro are renowned for their deep connection to the land and their practice of transhumance—a centuries-old tradition of seasonal livestock migration. Each year, farmers move their cattle between the high summer pastures and the lower winter grazing grounds, a practice that not only sustains their way of life but also preserves...

Rui Rodrigues