Family Adventure in Peneda-Gerês National Park

A Day of Discovery in Gerês

Today was a day of embracing the raw, untouched beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. We set out early, eager to explore more of what this stunning region has to offer. From chasing waterfalls to soaking in panoramic vistas, it was a day filled with awe and wonder, and a true testament to the magic of Northern Portugal.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Retiro do Gerês. It's always a pleasure to start the day with traditional Portuguese fare. I opted for a strong coffee and a ‘pastel de nata,’ while Jean-Pierre enjoyed some local bread with cheese. Sophie, of course, was happy with her usual croissant. Fully energized, we set off towards our first destination: Miradouro da Preguiça.

The drive to Miradouro da Preguiça was stunning in itself, with winding roads that offered glimpses of the park's vast landscapes. As we climbed higher, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. Even though it's September, the weather was pleasantly warm, perfect for a day of hiking and exploration.

Reaching the *Miradouro*, the view was simply breathtaking. The Gerês valley stretched out before us, a tapestry of green and gold, with the Caniçada reservoir shimmering in the distance. The vastness of the landscape was humbling, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me. Sophie was particularly excited, pointing out the tiny houses and winding roads below. Jean-Pierre, ever the photographer, was in his element, snapping away to capture the stunning panorama.

We spent some time simply taking in the view, breathing in the fresh air, and letting the serenity of the place seep into our souls. It's moments like these that remind me why I love traveling – the chance to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those that lead us to pause, breathe, and simply appreciate the beauty around us.

Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Miradouro da Preguiça in Vilar da Veiga, a perfect escape for nature lovers and travelers.

After the *Miradouro*, our next stop was Cascata da Portela do Homem. This waterfall is located near the Spanish border, further north in the park. The drive there was equally scenic, taking us through dense forests and past quaint villages. We parked near the border and took a short, signposted walk to the waterfall.

The Cascata da Portela do Homem is a series of cascades that tumble down granite rocks, forming a serene lagoon at the bottom. The water was crystal clear, and the sound of the falls was incredibly soothing. Despite it being a Saturday, there weren't too many people around, which allowed us to fully enjoy the tranquility of the place. Sophie was thrilled to dip her toes in the cool water, while Jean-Pierre and I admired the natural beauty of the falls. It was the perfect spot to relax and unwind, surrounded by nothing but nature.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascata da Portela do Homem, a must-visit waterfall in Portugal's Gerês National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

I couldn't help but reflect on how lucky we are to have these natural wonders so close to us. Living in Lyon, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of city life. But being able to escape to places like Peneda-Gerês National Park reminds me of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life.

For lunch, we headed to Encosta do Rio. The restaurant is surrounded by breathtaking nature. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring traditional Portuguese dishes while overlooking the river. The food was delicious, and the setting was idyllic. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning of exploration.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Encosta do Rio in Vilar da Veiga - a culinary haven surrounded by breathtaking nature.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip lower in the sky, we decided to make a stop at Pirata Do Gerês. I had read about this bar and was curious to check it out. The bar has transformed an old house into a cozy retreat where you can unwind after your adventures. It had a vibrant atmosphere and stunning views. The friendly staff, including a talented chef and multilingual conductor Bernardo, create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances your experience. Jean-Pierre and I enjoyed a glass of local wine, while Sophie sipped on some fresh juice. It was a lovely way to end the day, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the company of each other.


Discover the lively atmosphere and delightful drinks at Pirata Do Gerês, the perfect bar for relaxing after exploring the stunning Gerês region.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we had dinner at Lurdes Capela. This restaurant has been passed down from generation to generation. The menu features a variety of dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients, showcasing the rich gastronomic heritage of the region. I opted for the ‘posta barrosã,’ a regional specialty, while Jean-Pierre chose the wild boar. Sophie, as always, went for the grilled chicken. The food was hearty and delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring the park.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Lurdes Capela, where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

As we drove back, with Sophie asleep in the back seat, Jean-Pierre and I reflected on the day. We had seen so much beauty, experienced so much peace, and created so many memories. Peneda-Gerês National Park has a way of captivating you, of drawing you in with its natural charm and serene landscapes. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas, also known as Cascatas do Tahiti, and Fonte da Batoca. I've heard that the waterfalls are stunning, and I'm excited to see them for myself. We'll also be stopping by Espaço Vinhos e Sabores, a local shop, to pick up some souvenirs and local delicacies. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, and I'm grateful for every moment we get to spend in this beautiful part of the world.

Until then, *adeus*!