About Montalegre

Montalegre is a municipality in the district of Vila Real in the Norte Region of Portugal. The population in 2011 was 12,039, in an area of 565.06 km². It is located in the Gerês Mountains. The municipality of Montalegre was created in 1836. The present mayor is Luís Miguel Henriques, elected by the Socialist Party. The municipal holiday is June 13. The municipality includes the villages of Alvão, Arnoia, Balugães, Boticas, Carcedo de Boticas, Colbertelo, Cortes do Gerês, Crestuma, Fornelos, Lamalonga, Lamelas, Lindoso, Meixide, Montalegre, Póvoa de Lanhoso, Vale de Anta and Vale de Cambra. The highest point is the Pico do Arazande at 1,606 m. The lowest point is at 343 m near the town of Montalegre. The economy is based on tourism, agriculture and forestry. The municipality is famous for its cured ham and its slate mines. The 10th century Monastery of São João de Tarouca is located in the municipality. The natural landscapes of the Gerês Mountains have attracted visitors since the 19th century. The first hotel was built in 1873. In recent years the municipality has been working to develop sustainable tourism. In 2009 the municipality was awarded the European Destinations of Excellence award for sustainable tourism.