Fly-drive holidays in northern Portugal

The north of Portugal is a beautiful land of marked contrasts which is ideal to soak up the country's history, culture and relaxed atmosphere.

For a stylish, peaceful holiday, you can stay in a majestic converted manor house near Guimaraes called Paco de Sao Cipriano.

This fly and drive holiday lets you explore all 80 hectares of the vast, well-tended garden of the manor house, as well as presenting lots of opportunities to get out onto the winding roads and surrounding area.

Dating back to the 15th century, the Paco de Sao Cipriano has retained many original touches including an original stone kitchen and a library lined with leather-bound books.

A more recent addition, but no less enjoyable, is the swimming pool.

The seven-room property sits in vine-covered countryside close to Guimaraes - known as 'The Cradle City', due to its once being Portugal's first capital.

Although essentially a mediaeval town, Guimaraes has its origins in the distant 10th century.

It was at this time that the Countess Mumadona Dias, widow of Hemengildo Mendes, ordered the construction of a monastery and a castle - which are key sightseeing attractions in the town.

The manor is 54km from the major city of Porto, which also has plenty to see and do.

Along Porto's coast busy ports like Matosinhos have splendid seafood, as do traditional fishing towns like Povoa de Varzim, which also boasts an animated casino.

Inland, the quaint charm of Amarante, with 17th century mansions overlooking the river, is famous for a kind of sweet egg pastries called "papos de anjo" (angel bellies).

On from Porto you can visit, Vila Nova de Gaia, the lodges where Port wine is blended and aged. You can taste the different varieties, or you may choose to take a river cruise along the Douro.

A drive along the calm roads in the area will provide wonderful views over the river or the rugged and unspoilt coastline.

See the brochure (pdf format) at www.sunvil.co.uk

From £598 per person (based on two sharing) for one week's accommodation with breakfast, including return flights from London Heathrow with TAP Portugal and car hire. XXX