Historical and Scenic Exploration of Ponte de Lima

A Day of Natural Wonders

Today was a day dedicated to the raw, untamed beauty of northern Portugal. Leaving the charming town of Ponte de Lima behind for a day, Hans-Peter and I ventured into the heart of Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês. I was eager to immerse myself in the natural landscapes that this region is so celebrated for. It was a day filled with fresh air, the sound of rushing water, and the kind of peace that only nature can provide.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage of Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês, Portugal's only national park.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Casa da Terra, a local spot known for its traditional Portuguese fare. I savored every bite, knowing we'd need the energy for a day of exploring. Fuelled up, we set off towards the park. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering glimpses of the stunning scenery that awaited us. The November air was crisp, with a promise of a moderately chilly day ahead. The forecast predicted temperatures between 6°C and 14°C, so we dressed accordingly, layering up to stay warm.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Casa da Terra in Ponte de Lima - where every dish tells a story.Our first stop was the majestic Cascata do Pincho. The drive to the waterfall was quite scenic. When we arrived, the short walk from the parking area to the waterfall was easy. The waterfall was more stunning in person than in the photographs I'd seen. The water was crystal clear and the sound of it crashing into the pool below was invigorating. We spent some time simply admiring the view and breathing in the fresh, clean air.


Experience the serene beauty of Cascata do Pincho, a hidden gem in Montaria, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers seeking tranquility.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Although I was tempted to take a dip in the refreshing waters, I decided against it. The air was cool, and I knew the water would be even colder! Instead, we explored some of the surrounding trails, enjoying the lush greenery and the peaceful atmosphere. I made sure to wear sturdy footwear because the trails were rocky and slippery. As we hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this landscape was from the flatlands of Berlin. It reminded me of the forests back home in Latvia, a comforting connection to my roots.

After our visit to the waterfall, we were ready for lunch. We drove to Restaurante A Cozinha Velha, a restaurant known for its traditional Minho cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm fireplace that added to the ambiance. We ordered some local specialties and enjoyed a leisurely meal. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. I especially enjoyed the local Vinho Verde wine, a perfect complement to the hearty dishes.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurande A Cozinha Velha in Ponte de Lima – where tradition meets taste.With our bellies full, we decided to explore more of Peneda-Gerês National Park. We drove through winding roads, stopping at scenic viewpoints to take in the panoramic views. The park is vast and varied, with mountains, forests, and rivers. I was amazed by the sheer scale of it all. It was easy to see why this is one of Portugal's most treasured natural areas.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back towards Ponte de Lima. Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to stop for a drink at Chusso Bar, a local establishment known for its lively atmosphere. The bar was buzzing with locals and tourists alike. We ordered some drinks and soaked in the atmosphere. It was a perfect way to end a day of exploring.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Ponte de Lima at Chusso Bar, where craft cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere await.Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. It was a day that reminded me of the importance of connecting with nature and appreciating the simple things in life.

Tomorrow, we plan to stay closer to Ponte de Lima and explore some of its historical sites, including the Jardim Labirinto, the Painel de Azulejos do Mercado Municipal, and the Avenida dos Plátanos. I am also hoping to do some shopping at OldStar. But for now, I am content to relax and savor the memories of today's adventure. Good night from Ponte de Lima!

I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures.