Simply Happy is located in the Minho region of Portugal, an area that is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. While most visitors to the small country on the Western edge of Europe focus on Porto and Lisbon (or on the beaches of the Algarve coast), Northern Portugal has much to offer. From medieval villages to lush green landscapes framed by mountains and a rich culinary tradition, this region is a cultural treasure trove. But shhh… luckily, the area has been spared by mass tourism.
With its old stone houses and cobblestone streets, Oucias – the Simply Happy village – is a village that is characteristic for the region. Surrounded by rocky green hills, forests and vineyards, it lies on the edge of the Peneda-Gerês, Portugal’s only national park. In fact, the landscape in this area seems more reminiscent of the Scottish highlands than of the Mediterranean South of Europe. The nearest town to Simply Happy is Arcos de Valdevez, a place steeped in historical significance.
Arcos de Valdevez
Arcos de Valdevez is a city of 20 000 inhabitants located in the district of Viana do Castelo.
In the early 12th century, Portugal was not yet a unified nation, with its borders being in a state of flux. The region that was going to be called “Portugal” was ruled by various local leaders who were loyal to the Kingdom of León and Castile. Among them was Afonso Henriques, who would later become Portugal’s first king (Afonso I of Portugal).
The Battle of Valdevez, which took place in the fields near the town in 1140, is one of the pivotal moments on the country’s path to independence. This fight between the forces of Afonso Henriques and his cousin, Alfonso VII of León, was not so much a battle, but rather a peaceful resolution of what could have turned into a long and bloody conflict. This victory helped Afonso Henriques solidify his control over the territory that would become modern-day Portugal. Only some forty years later, in 1179, Portugal was recognised as an independent kingdom by the Pope.
The Vez River runs through Arcos, dividing the town into two halves and giving it a tranquil atmosphere with riverside walks. The Vez river is a tributary to the Lima river which flows into the Atlantic sea. Apart from its whitewashed buildings and traditional granite houses, Arcos also has a few well-preserved churches.
Ponte de Lima
Within a half-hour drive from Arcos towards the Southwest, one reaches Ponte de Lima. Founded by the Romans, Ponte de Lima is often regarded as the oldest town in Portugal. As the name tells us, its most iconic feature is a long stone bridge (“ponte”) that spans the Lima River. The bridge has been used by travelers and pilgrims for centuries — Ponte de Lima is a station on the Caminho Português (Portuguese Way), which is one of the popular routes leading to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
The town is also famous for its market which is held every Monday and Thursday. It’s said to be one of the oldest markets in Portugal with a large variety of products, from fresh produce to traditional handicrafts. Of course, one of the most important specialities is the vinho verde. Meaning “green wine,” the name refers not to the colour but to its youth and freshness, as it is typically consumed soon after production.
Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo is located west of Ponte de Lima on the Atlantic coast. For centuries, Viana’s strategic location along the Lima River made it a hub for commerce and shipbuilding. Founded in 1258 by King Afonso III, the town turned into an important port and trading centre for goods like cod, wine, and salt. During the Age of Discoveries, Viana’s shipyards were one of the main centres of building vessels for exploration voyages to the Americas.
Viana do Castelo also has some traditional festivals and folklore, the most famous being the “Romaria de Nossa Senhora da Agonia.” Held every August, this festival is one of the largest religious celebrations in Portugal with colourful parades, traditional dances and plenty of wine.
Viana do Castelo’s architecture combines Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Deco styles. The Sanctuary of Santa Luzia, situated on a hill overlooking the city, is an impressive example of Neo-Byzantine architecture which offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and North Portuguese countryside.
Guimarães
Further to the southeast lies Guimarães, a city that is often referred to as the “cradle of Portugal.” Guimarães was the birthplace of Afonso Henriques who turned the city into the country’s first capital. The UNESCO recognised its historical importance by endowing it with World Heritage status. In 2012, Guimarães was named the European Capital of Culture.
The town’s castle, Castelo de Guimarães, is a reminder of its strategic importance in the early years of Portugal’s history. The old town is one of the best-preserved historical centres in Portugal with a maze of narrow streets, lined with medieval houses, stores, and cafés.
Guimarães also has a lively cultural scene, with a number of art galleries, museums and festivals that celebrate art and music. It’s famous for its local cuisine, including dishes like arroz de sarrabulho (a rice dish with meat) and tortas de Guimarães (a sweet pastry).
