I moved to Braga, in Northern Portugal, in September 2019. Six months before the world shut down due to a pandemic. Long periods of lockdown unexpectedly offered me the opportunity to do what I actually moved to Portugal for: slow down and recover physically and mentally after a burnout. I started to discover the region in a different way than I originally had in mind, by walking. I also walked the Portuguese Camino to Santiago.

‘Start to walk and the way will appear’ became much more than just a quote. It became a mindset and a way of life.

So in 2021 I discovered the spacious region around where I live, in the East of Braga, at the foot of Bom Jesus do Monte. I started drawing my own walking routes, varying in distance and landscape. And with extensive attention to sensory stimuli.

I found the elements that completely resonate with who I am and what I love: beautiful landscapes, nature, culture, history, gastronomy, wine, hiking and, above all, peace of mind.

Restorative Walking: experience the healing power of walking during a Restorative Holiday

In 2022 I was forced to take a break when I was diagnosed with lymph node cancer. I had to fight a battle that demanded the utmost from my body, both physically and mentally. A battle that I won, but which taught me even more to slow down and not to lose sight of the beautiful little things along the way. I once again experienced the healing power of walking during my recovery period.

Restorative Walking, what’s in a name? Strengthen physically, relax mentally or recharge your batteries during a walking trip in the north of Portugal. After all, walking in this beautiful environment is a blessing for body and mind.

Braga, city of 6 Camino routes to Santiago de Compostela

Without realizing it, I moved to a city that has a strong connection with Santiago de Compostela. My search for Braga’s historical past taught me that I live at an intersection where 6 different routes to Santiago pass. This completes the circle for me: Braga offers me everything I need at this point in my life.

Welcome to Braga, welcome to Northern Portugal!

Ann Kempeneers