Family Adventure in Peneda-Gerês National Park

First Impressions of Gerês
After a long drive from Lyon, Jean-Pierre, Sophie, and I finally arrived at Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês. The anticipation had been building for months, and as we drove through the park's entrance, I could already feel the stress of our busy lives melting away. I'm eager to share our first day's adventure in this stunning natural paradise.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Casa Albelo do Gerês. This charming guesthouse, nestled in the mountains, offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city. We sat on the terrace, enjoying fresh bread, local cheeses, and strong coffee. Sophie was particularly thrilled with the homemade jams, declaring them the best she'd ever tasted. The owners were incredibly welcoming, sharing stories about the park and offering tips for our visit. It felt like a true home away from home.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine and cozy accommodations at Casa Albelo do Geres, where tradition meets comfort in beautiful Outeiro.

Fueled up and ready to explore, we set off to discover the wonders of Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads offering breathtaking views at every turn. The September weather was perfect, with temperatures hovering around a comfortable 23°C. The park is vast, stretching across plateaus and mountain ranges, a landscape sculpted by glaciers.

Our first stop was the Miradouro de Junceda, a viewpoint that promised panoramic vistas. The short hike to the miradouro was invigorating, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. As we reached the top, we were rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the park. The rolling hills, dotted with quaint villages and shimmering lakes, stretched out before us. I snapped countless photos, trying to capture the sheer beauty of the landscape. Sophie, ever the explorer, pointed out different rock formations and imagined stories about the creatures that might live there.


Discover the stunning vistas of Gerês National Park from the breathtaking Miradouro de Junceda in Vilar da Veiga, Portugal.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those that lead us back to nature, reminding us of the simple beauty and tranquility that exists beyond our everyday lives.

After soaking in the views, we drove to Soajo for lunch at Restaurante Espigueiro do Soajo. This traditional restaurant is known for its authentic Portuguese cuisine, and it did not disappoint. We feasted on hearty dishes like *vitela* (veal) and *bacalhau* (codfish), savoring the rich flavors of the region. The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with rustic décor and friendly staff. Jean-Pierre, always the wine enthusiast, enjoyed a glass of local red wine, declaring it a perfect complement to the meal.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurante Espigueiro do Soajo – where every dish tells a story.

After lunch, we took a stroll through the village of Soajo, admiring the ancient *espigueiros* (granaries) that are a hallmark of the region. These stone structures, raised on pillars to protect the corn from rodents, are a testament to the ingenuity of the local people. Sophie was fascinated by them, peppering me with questions about their history and purpose. It was a wonderful opportunity to teach her about the cultural heritage of the area.

In the afternoon, we decided to explore the local shops. Our first stop was Loja do Parque, a charming store in Covide that offers a variety of products from the national park. I was immediately drawn to the local crafts, from hand-woven baskets to intricately carved wooden figurines. We sampled some of the regional delicacies, including honey, cheeses, and smoked meats. Sophie picked out a small, hand-painted bird figurine as a souvenir, while Jean-Pierre and I stocked up on local honey to bring back to Lyon.


Explore Loja do Parque: Your ultimate destination for unique Portuguese crafts and local treasures in a charming atmosphere.

As evening approached, we made our way to Restaurante Adega Ramalho for dinner. This restaurant, known for its traditional Minho cuisine, was a delightful experience. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home. We started with *caldo verde*, a traditional Portuguese soup made with potatoes, collard greens, and chorizo. For our main courses, we opted for the *cabrito assado* (roasted goat) and the *costeleta de vitela* (veal chop), both of which were cooked to perfection. The portions were generous, and the flavors were rich and satisfying. Sophie, surprisingly, loved the *caldo verde*, asking for seconds. Jean-Pierre and I shared a bottle of the house wine, a robust red that perfectly complemented the meal.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Adega Ramalho in Gerês, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

After dinner, as we drove back to our guesthouse, the stars began to emerge, creating a magical canopy above us. The air was cool and still, and the only sounds were the gentle chirping of crickets and the soft hum of our car. I felt a deep sense of peace and contentment, grateful for the opportunity to share this incredible experience with my family.

Reflecting on our first day, I'm struck by the incredible beauty and diversity of Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês. From the stunning viewpoints to the charming villages and delicious cuisine, every moment has been a feast for the senses. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to visit the Cascata do Arado and Mata de Albergaria. I'm also looking forward to unwinding at the Marina Bar in the evening. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, knowing that we've created something truly special as a family.

I did realize that I forgot to pack insect repellent and binoculars, but I will try to find some tomorrow at one of the local shops. I am looking forward to another day of exploring this beautiful park with Jean-Pierre and Sophie.