Discover Brunhais

Brunhais lies on the southern slope of Monte do Castro and on the right bank of the Rio Ave. The village is accessible via the municipal road E.M. n.º 599; documents mention Brunhais from 1059 onward. These provide geographical and historical points of reference for choosing your destination, brought into focus by churches, rural buildings, and an archaeological discovery.

Churches and Rural Architecture

The local parish church is called Igreja Paroquial de Brunhais (São Paio). The Igreja Matriz de Brunhais dates from 1890. João António de Matos is credited with rebuilding the church of Brunhais.

The Capela de S. Pedro is an example of rural architecture in Brunhais. It was restored and donated to the parish by the family of Casa das Leiras. Casa dos Vieiras e Britos is also an example of 17th-century rural architecture. Casa da Torre bears the coat of arms of the Vieiras and Tinocos; Casa da Portela is another example of rural architecture.

Archaeological Traces and Historical Periods

A necropolis dating from the period of Roman rule was discovered at Lugar da Igreja in 1978. The find adds an archaeological dimension to the historical context, while churches and houses reveal further facets of local architectural history. The dates refer to different things: Brunhais is mentioned in documents from 1059 onward; Casa dos Vieiras e Britos dates to the 17th century, 1890 is the year of the Igreja Matriz, and 1978 marks the discovery of the necropolis, which is attributed to the period of Roman rule.

Route and River Landscape

In the area of the União de Freguesias de Esperança e Brunhais, the Caminho Português de Santiago de Leon de Rosmithal crosses the Ponte Mem Guterres. The Ponte de Mem Guterres, also called Ponte da Esperança, is in the municipality of Póvoa de Lanhoso; its single large arch defines the landscape. It was built at a narrow, rocky point on the upper reaches of the Rio Ave. The route and the structure offer different perspectives: the Caminho crosses the bridge, while the arch and setting characterize the bridge itself. The upper reaches are the part of the Rio Ave farther upstream.

A description dated 24 March 2026 lists shells, yellow arrows, and information boards as markers for the Caminho. As markings can change, check the current route signage before setting out.

Parque de Lazer de Esperança

The Parque de Lazer de Esperança reopened to the public following improvements to the Praia Fluvial de Esperança. If you include the park in your plans, check current access arrangements before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Póvoa de Lanhoso, Rendufinho.

Go to the main travel overview: Póvoa De Lanhoso.