Cultural Journey through Ponte de Lima

A Day of Natural Wonders

Today, Jan and I ventured into the heart of Portugal’s only national park, Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês, seeking respite from our usual Delft routine and to immerse ourselves in the raw beauty of the Portuguese landscape. Leaving behind the charming streets of Ponte de Lima for a day, we traded cobblestones for winding trails and city sounds for the soothing rush of waterfalls. It was a day filled with exploration, a touch of adventure, and a deep appreciation for the natural world that Portugal so generously offers.


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

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Maria Rosa | Restaurante | Breakfast, Lunch & Brunch, a local spot known for its scrumptious brunch. I opted for the 'Ovos Benedict', while Jan enjoyed a hearty serving of their 'Hambúrgueres'. Fuelled up, we set off towards Peneda-Gerês National Park, a drive that promised scenic views and a refreshing escape into nature.

The drive itself was a treat, with the landscape transforming from the verdant fields around Ponte de Lima to the rugged, mountainous terrain of the park. The weather in October is ideal for exploring the park; the temperatures are mildly cool, and the breeze adds a refreshing touch. As we ascended, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth – a welcome change from the more urban aromas of Delft. I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement, a feeling I always cherish when stepping into a new environment, ready to discover its hidden gems.

Upon arriving at Peneda-Gerês National Park, we were immediately struck by its vastness and unspoiled beauty. The park is a sprawling expanse of mountains, forests, and waterways, offering a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. Although spotting the elusive Iberian wolves or wild horses would have been a dream, we contented ourselves with the stunning landscapes that unfolded before us.

Our first stop was the famed Cascata do Pincho, a waterfall tucked away in the Serra de Arga. The drive to the trailhead was a bit challenging, with some rough patches on the road. I was relieved Jan was at the wheel, his calm demeanor and driving skills were certainly put to the test! We managed to navigate the road without any issues, but I would recommend a vehicle with good clearance for anyone attempting this route.


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

The hike to Cascata do Pincho was relatively short, but incredibly rewarding. The trail wound through a lush forest, the path lined with moss-covered stones and the soothing sound of the Rio Âncora guiding our way. The anticipation built with each step, and as we rounded a final bend, the waterfall revealed itself in all its glory.

>Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

Cascata do Pincho is a stunning cascade, with water plunging into a clear, inviting pool. The surrounding rocks were perfect for perching, allowing us to sit and simply absorb the serene atmosphere. I dipped my toes into the water – bracingly cold, but invigorating! We spent a good hour there, Jan sketching in his notebook while I simply sat and meditated, letting the sounds of the waterfall wash over me. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a reminder of the simple joys in life.

After our refreshing interlude at Cascata do Pincho, we decided to explore more of the park. We drove along the winding roads, stopping at various viewpoints to take in the panoramic vistas. The park offers numerous trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Given our limited time, we opted for a moderate trail that led us through a dense oak forest. The sunlight filtering through the leaves created a magical ambiance, and we felt as though we had stepped into a fairytale.

As we hiked, we came across several traditional villages nestled in the mountains. These communities seemed untouched by time, with their stone houses and terraced fields offering a glimpse into a simpler way of life. I was particularly fascinated by the espigueiros, traditional granaries raised on pillars, which are unique to this region. They stand as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the local people.

By late afternoon, hunger pangs reminded us that it was time to think about lunch. We drove to the small town of Gaio, where we had a delightful meal at Gaio Restaurant. I savoured the Arroz de Tamboril, while Jan enjoyed the Bifes. The service was friendly, and the food was hearty and satisfying – exactly what we needed after a day of exploring.


Savor authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurante Gaio in Ponte de Lima - a culinary experience in Northern Portugal.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we started our journey back towards Ponte de Lima. The sky was ablaze with colour, painting the landscape in hues of orange, pink, and purple. We made one final stop at a viewpoint overlooking the Lima Valley, where we watched the sunset in silence, each lost in our thoughts.

Back in Ponte de Lima, we decided to round off the day with a drink at Mandala GastroPub. It was a cosy spot, with a relaxed atmosphere and a good selection of local wines and craft beers. We shared a glass of vinho verde, reminiscing about the day’s adventures and planning our itinerary for tomorrow. We are scheduled to visit Museu de Artes Decorativas, Santa Maria de Braga Cathedral and Bom Jesus do Monte.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Ponte de Lima at Mandala GastroPub, where tradition meets innovation in a cozy gastropub setting.

For dinner, we chose Manuel Padeiro, a restaurant recommended by our host, known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. I opted for the 'Bacalhau à Manuel Padeiro', while Jan chose the 'Serrabulho'. Both dishes were bursting with flavour, and we thoroughly enjoyed the warm, inviting atmosphere of the restaurant.


Experience exquisite European cuisine at Manuel Padeiro in Ponte de Lima – where tradition meets contemporary flavors.

As I reflect on our day in Peneda-Gerês National Park, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. It was a day of simple pleasures, of connecting with nature, and of appreciating the beauty that Portugal has to offer. It’s experiences like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore, and to share my discoveries with all of you.

Tomorrow, we venture to Braga, a city steeped in history and culture. I am excited to explore its ancient cathedrals, wander through its charming streets, and discover the stories that lie hidden within its walls. Until then, goodnight from Ponte de Lima.

I think I will need the 'Portuguese phrasebook' I forgot to pack when we left Delft. Hopefully I will remember tomorrow!