Christmas in Viana - Cantares ao Menino and Minho's Consoada

Christmas in Minho is not urban Christmas of garish lights and shopping centres. It's intimate, domestic, with traditions that survived modernity.

**Cantares ao Menino** - In December, singing groups go through the parishes, stopping at each house with original verses and old songs. Hard to predict - ask Carolina, she knows when they pass Santa Marta de Portuzelo.

**Viana Christmas Market** - Praça da República, last weekend before Christmas. Small, with local crafts, honey, cheese. Mulled wine.

**Consoada (24 Dec)** - The Minho tradition is boiled cod with potatoes, cabbage, hard-boiled eggs and olive oil. Simple and sublime. Families dine late (9-10pm) and attend Midnight Mass.

**Bolo Rei** - Christmas without bolo Rei isn't Christmas. In Viana, **Manuel Natário** (centre) is the best.

The Villa is open at Christmas - we welcome guests escaping family frenzy, or couples wanting a calm Christmas for two. Carolina prepares a Minho consoada with 1 week's notice (€35 per person).