Peneda-Gerês National Park Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Peneda-Gerês National Park in Northern Portugal? This guide covers all you need to know - from where to stay and what to eat, to the best hikes and sights to see.


Introduction to Peneda-Gerês National Park

Peneda-Gerês National Park is a breathtaking destination located in the northern region of Portugal. Spanning over 700 square kilometers, it is the only national park in the country and attracts nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The park is named after two mountain ranges - Peneda and Gerês - and is known for its striking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and rich cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Peneda-Gerês National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

To understand the rich history of the region, be sure to visit some of the following attractions:

  1. Vilarinho das Furnas - A ghost town that was flooded in the 1970s to construct a dam. The ruins of the town are visible during drier months.
  2. Castro Laboreiro - An ancient fortified village that dates back to the Iron Age.
  3. Lindoso Castle - A medieval castle that once served as a line of defense against the Kingdom of Leon.

Natural Attractions of Peneda-Gerês National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The park is home to a wide range of natural wonders, including:

  1. Gerês Thermal Springs - Relax in the natural hot springs after a long day of hiking.
  2. Tahiti Waterfall - A stunning waterfall, named after the famous island in French Polynesia.
  3. Pedra Bela Viewpoint - Offers stunning views of the park’s mountain ranges and valleys.
  4. Águia de Campainha - A mountain peak that offers panoramic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Peneda-Gerês National Park

The park is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers of all levels. Some of the best trails include:

  1. Rota do Castelo - A 11-kilometer hike that takes you through ancient villages and ends at the Lindoso Castle.
  2. Rota da Geira e dos Arrieiros - A 22-kilometer route that was once used by Romans to transport goods between Braga and Astorga.
  3. Trilho dos Currais - This 7-kilometer trail takes you through stunning landscapes and offers glimpses of wild horses.

Best Things to Do in Peneda-Gerês National Park: Activities and Tours

The park offers a host of activities and tours. Some of the best include:

  1. Horseback Riding - Explore the park’s rustic terrain while riding horses.
  2. Canyoning - Adventure seekers can go canyoning in the park’s rivers and waterfalls.
  3. Nature Tours - Learn about the park’s flora and fauna with a guided nature tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Peneda-Gerês National Park

If you plan on spending a week in the park, consider following this itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Peneda-Gerês, explore the town, and enjoy local cuisine. Day 2: Hike to Pedra Bela Viewpoint and take in the scenic views. Day 3: Visit some cultural attractions - Vilarinho das Furnas or Castro Laboreiro. Day 4: Spend the day exploring the park’s waterfalls and thermal springs. Day 5: Take a guided nature tour or a horseback ride. Day 6: Go canyoning in the park’s rivers and waterfalls. Day 7: Relax and unwind before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Peneda-Gerês National Park

Must-Try Dishes

Peneda-Gerês National Park is known for its traditional culinary offerings, such as:

  1. Cozido - A hearty stew made with various meats and vegetables.
  2. Rojões - A popular dish of juicy pork cubes sautéed with garlic and paprika.
  3. Caldo Verde - A creamy potato soup with kale.

Local Beverages

  1. Vinho Verde - A light, crisp white wine that is produced in the region.
  2. Licor beirão - A sweet traditional Portuguese liqueur.

Where to Stay in Peneda-Gerês National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options in the park, catering to every budget:

  1. Pousada de Gerês - A charming hotel located in the heart of the park.
  2. Camping Gerês - A great budget option for outdoor enthusiasts.
  3. Casa da Fonte - A cozy guesthouse located in a charming village.

What to Buy in Peneda-Gerês National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

You can bring back a piece of the park with you with some of the following souvenirs:

  1. Honey - The park is known for its high-quality honey.
  2. Handmade woolen blankets - A traditional craft of the region.
  3. Handmade pottery - A popular souvenir among tourists.

Local Culture and Customs of Peneda-Gerês National Park

The park has a rich cultural heritage and deep ties to the rural lifestyle. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, such as:

  1. Dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.
  2. Greeting locals with a handshake and offering a kind word.
  3. Not littering or disturbing the natural environment.

Best Time to Visit Peneda-Gerês National Park

The park can be visited year-round. However, the best time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is pleasant and the flora is in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Peneda-Gerês National Park

Do:

  1. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  2. Stay on designated trails during hikes.
  3. Carry enough water and wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage natural resources.
  2. Swim in prohibited areas of rivers and waterfalls.
  3. Approach wild animals or feed them.

Safety and Health

Safety in Peneda-Gerês National Park

For a safe and enjoyable trip, visitors should take the following precautions:

  1. Carry a map and a compass, along with a charged phone.
  2. Listen to park rangers and obey signs.
  3. Be cautious during high-risk activities such as canyoning.

Health in Peneda-Gerês National Park

Visitors should be aware of their physical limitations and take the necessary precautions:

  1. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.
  2. Apply sunscreen and insect repellent.
  3. Drink plenty of water and bring snacks on hikes.

Getting to Peneda-Gerês National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Peneda-Gerês National Park

The closest international airports are Porto or Vigo, which are both approximately 1.5 hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Peneda-Gerês National Park

There are daily bus services from Porto and Braga to Peneda-Gerês.

Other Options

Renting a car or hiring a private driver is a great option for exploring the region at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Peneda-Gerês National Park

Getting around the park can be done by car, bike, or foot. Some of the park’s hiking trails can only be accessed on foot.

Where to Go Next from Peneda-Gerês National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some other great destinations to visit after Peneda-Gerês National Park include:

  1. Porto - A vibrant city known for its wine, food, and rich culture.
  2. Braga - A historic city known for its architecture and religious sites.
  3. Douro Valley - A stunning region known for its vineyards and wine tours.

Conclusion

Peneda-Gerês National Park is a truly breathtaking destination that offers something for everyone. With its stunning landscapes, diverse cultural offerings, and outdoor activities, it is a must-visit destination for any traveler heading to Northern Portugal. Plan your trip today and experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of this incredible region.