Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park

Whispers of the Wild

Today was a day of venturing deeper into the heart of Peneda-Gerês National Park, a place where the boundaries between Portugal and Spain blur, creating a haven of shared natural and cultural heritage. It's remarkable how a landscape can embody the spirit of unity and preservation. Lena and I set out with a sense of anticipation, eager to explore the Reserva de la Biosfera Transfronteriza Gerês-Xurés and the rustic charm of Cabana da Rocalva [i, 7].


Explore the enchanting landscapes and diverse wildlife of Reserva de la Biosfera Transfronteriza Gerês-Xurés, a nature lover's paradise on the Spain-Portugal border.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at RESTAURANTE VIDEIRA in Soajo. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Portuguese coffee filled the air, a perfect start to fuel our explorations. It’s funny, I always feel a little closer to my Greek roots when I’m in a place where simple, wholesome food is celebrated. Lena, of course, was in her element, chatting with the locals and soaking in the atmosphere. I swear, her German charm works wonders wherever we go.

With our bellies full, we drove towards the Reserva de la Biosfera Transfronteriza Gerês-Xurés. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve spans across the border between Portugal and Spain, encompassing a vast area of protected land. The park unites the Peneda-Gerês National Park in Portugal and the Baixa Limia-Serra do Xurés Natural Park in Galicia, Spain. As we drove, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of rolling hills, dense forests, and sparkling rivers. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale of this natural reserve.

We decided to park the car and explore part of the reserve on foot. The trails were well-marked, and we chose a route that meandered through a dense oak forest. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating dappled patterns on the forest floor. The only sounds were the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the distant rush of water. It was a symphony of nature, a far cry from the urban soundscapes I usually work with in Potsdam.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

As we hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of preserving such spaces. In my work as a sound engineer, I often try to capture the essence of a place through its sounds. But here, in Gerês-Xurés, the true essence lies in the silence, in the untouched beauty that speaks volumes without uttering a word. It’s a powerful reminder of what we stand to lose if we don't protect these natural sanctuaries.

After a couple of hours of hiking, we worked up quite an appetite. We drove to Encosta do Rio for lunch. The restaurant had a rustic charm, and the menu featured traditional Portuguese dishes. We shared a hearty stew, savoring the rich flavors and the warmth of the food. Lena, ever the social butterfly, struck up a conversation with the owner, learning about the history of the restaurant and the local community. It's these small interactions that make our travels so enriching.


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

With renewed energy, we set off to find Cabana da Rocalva. The drive was an adventure in itself, with winding roads that climbed higher into the mountains. The views were simply breathtaking. Finally, we reached the trailhead and began our ascent. The path was steep and rocky, but the anticipation of reaching the cabana kept us going. Along the way, we passed grazing sheep, their bells tinkling in the distance. It felt like stepping back in time, to a simpler, more pastoral way of life.


Explore the beauty and tranquility of Cabana da Rocalva in Vilar da Veiga, a serene tourist attraction perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Cabana da Rocalva turned out to be a simple stone shelter, perched on a hillside overlooking a vast expanse of wilderness. The views were panoramic, stretching as far as the eye could see. We sat there for a long time, simply soaking in the beauty of the landscape. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with ourselves.

As the day drew to a close, we made a stop at Cestas e Chocolates Minho. Lena has a sweet tooth that rivals any child's, and I must admit, I enjoy a good chocolate treat myself. We picked up a selection of artisanal chocolates, each one a small masterpiece of flavor and craftsmanship. It was the perfect ending to a day of exploration and discovery.


Discover the sweetest delights in Monção at Cestas e Chocolates Minho, your go-to chocolate shop for artisanal creations and decadent desserts.

For dinner, we had reservations at O Encontro - Por Marcação. This cozy restaurant is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. Since reservations are a must, we were looking forward to a unique culinary experience. We indulged in a feast of local specialties, savoring every bite and relishing the flavors of the region. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end our day in Peneda-Gerês National Park.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at O Encontro - Por Marcação in Terras de Bouro; where tradition meets flavor in a warm atmosphere.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Fojo do Lobo de Fafião, an ancient wolf trap, and relax at Praia da Quinta da Portelada. It’s exciting to uncover more of what this park has to offer, and I’m sure there will be plenty of stories to tell. I am also looking forward to visiting Pirata Do Gerês bar tomorrow evening for a relaxing drink after a long day of exploring.

Today was a reminder that the greatest adventures are often found in the simplest of places. The beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park lies not only in its landscapes but also in its people, its traditions, and its spirit of preservation. It's a place that nourishes the soul and inspires a deeper connection with the natural world. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this hidden gem of Europe.

My thoughts also drifted to my bouzouki back in Potsdam. I made a mental note to try and capture some of the sounds and feelings of this trip in a new melody when I get home. Perhaps a little something that blends the traditional Greek sounds with the serene whispers of the Gerês-Xurés.