Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park

Finding Peace on the Path of Laziness

Today was a day of gentle exploration and quiet contemplation in Peneda-Gerês National Park. Lena and I embraced a slower pace, allowing ourselves to be captivated by the simple beauty of the Portuguese countryside. From a leisurely hike to savoring local flavors, every moment felt like a step deeper into the heart of this stunning natural haven. It's amazing how much you can appreciate when you're not rushing.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Espreita. The rustic decor and warm atmosphere immediately made us feel at home. I enjoyed a strong coffee while Lena savored some fresh pastries. It's these simple moments, sharing a meal in a cozy setting, that truly enrich our travels. The staff were incredibly welcoming, offering recommendations for local specialties. We took their advice and tried a traditional Portuguese dish made with locally sourced ingredients. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our morning hike. After breakfast, we packed our essentials and set off for Trilho da Preguiça, or the Path of Laziness.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Trilho da Preguiça, a serene hiking trail in Gerês that offers stunning landscapes and a peaceful outdoor experience.
The trailhead was easy to find, starting at the Miradouro da Preguiça, a viewpoint just a short drive from Gerês. The name of the trail was quite misleading, as it turned out to be a moderately challenging but incredibly rewarding hike. The path wound along the Arnado hillside, offering stunning views of the Gerês River valley. We meandered through a diverse landscape of lush vegetation, feeling a world away from the hustle and bustle of Potsdam. The air was filled with the scent of pine and wildflowers, a symphony of nature that invigorated our senses. We crossed a few small streams, the water cool and refreshing against our skin. Lena, ever the nature enthusiast, pointed out various plant species, sharing her knowledge with infectious enthusiasm. I tried to record some of the ambient sounds with my portable audio recorder, hoping to capture the essence of the forest's tranquility. Although the trail wasn't exactly lazy, it was certainly peaceful. We took our time, stopping frequently to admire the scenery and snap photos. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a magical atmosphere, casting dappled shadows on the path ahead.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the quietest moments, in the simple act of slowing down and appreciating the beauty around us.

After a couple of hours of hiking, we reached the Cascata de Leonte, a small but charming waterfall. The water cascaded down the rocks, creating a soothing melody that invited us to pause and reflect. We sat by the waterfall, enjoying the cool mist on our faces and the gentle sounds of nature. It was a perfect moment of serenity, a reminder of why we chose to escape into the wilderness. As we made our way back to the trailhead, we encountered a few other hikers, exchanging smiles and nods of appreciation. There's a sense of camaraderie among those who seek solace in nature, a shared understanding of the restorative power of the outdoors. Back in the car, we drove towards Lindoso, eager to experience another facet of Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Lindoso is a village known for its well-preserved medieval castle and unique cluster of granaries, called *espigueiros*. As we approached the Viewpoint Lindoso, the landscape opened up before us, revealing a breathtaking panorama.


Experience breathtaking views and rich culture at Viewpoint Lindoso, a scenic spot in Portugal showcasing nature's beauty and history.
The Lindoso Castle stood proudly atop a hill, a testament to the region's rich history. Below the castle, the *espigueiros* formed a picturesque scene, their stone structures adding a touch of rustic charm to the landscape. We parked the car and walked towards the viewpoint, eager to capture the stunning vista with our cameras. The view extended across the Alto Lindoso reservoir, the waters shimmering in the afternoon sun. In the distance, we could distinguish between the Serra Amarela and Serra do Soajo mountain ranges, separated by the Lima River. Lena was particularly fascinated by the *espigueiros*, their intricate designs and historical significance capturing her imagination. I tried to imagine what life must have been like in this remote village centuries ago, the rhythms of daily life dictated by the seasons and the land. We spent some time exploring the area around the viewpoint, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and admiring the natural beauty. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of wildflowers and distant pastures. It was a perfect spot for quiet contemplation, a place to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. After our visit to Lindoso, we drove to Soajo, a nearby village known for its traditional architecture and local cuisine.

For lunch, we chose Saber ao Borralho, a cozy restaurant recommended for its authentic regional dishes.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Saber ao Borralho in Arcos de Valdevez - a must-visit culinary destination.
The restaurant's name, which translates to tasting by the embers, hinted at the hearty, slow-cooked meals that awaited us. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, the scent of wood smoke and simmering stews filling the air. The decor was rustic and charming, with stone walls, wooden beams, and a crackling fireplace. We were seated at a table near the window, offering a view of the village's cobblestone streets and traditional houses. The menu featured a variety of local specialties, with an emphasis on meat dishes and hearty stews. We decided to try the *cachena* grilled beef, a local breed known for its flavorful meat. The *cachena* was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, with a rich, savory flavor that melted in our mouths. It was accompanied by a hearty portion of rice and beans, roasted potatoes, and sautéed vegetables. Lena and I savored every bite, appreciating the simple yet exquisite flavors of the traditional Portuguese cuisine. For dessert, we shared a slice of fig cheesecake, a less traditional but equally delicious treat. The sweetness of the figs complemented the creamy cheesecake, creating a perfect ending to our meal. The meal was a true culinary delight, a testament to the region's rich gastronomic heritage. After lunch, we took a stroll through Soajo, admiring the village's traditional architecture and soaking in the local atmosphere.

As evening approached, we made our way to Bem Cozinhado for dinner.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Bem Cozinhado in Souto - where every meal tells a story of tradition and flavor.
This restaurant, known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and cozy ambiance, was the perfect place to end our day of exploration. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the cool evening air and the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The service was attentive and friendly, making us feel like honored guests. For dinner, I ordered the roasted lamb, while Lena opted for the grilled fish. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the chef's skill and passion. As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's experiences, the beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the people, and the richness of the culture. We ended our evening at Chamadouro Bar.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Northern Portugal at Chamadouro Bar, a charming tapas restaurant and bar in Campo de Gerês.
Unfortunately, I must admit that recent news has cast a shadow on this otherwise charming establishment. It appears that an incident occurred just a couple of weeks ago where someone attempted to set fire to the bar after allegedly being refused alcohol. While this is certainly concerning, I'm choosing to believe that this was an isolated event and doesn't reflect the true spirit of the place. I am focusing on the positive experiences we had, the friendly service, and the beautiful views. We enjoyed some local wine, listened to traditional music, and watched the sunset over the mountains. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a moment of peace and contentment that we will cherish forever. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventures, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of the world. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Reserva de la Biosfera Transfronteriza Gerês-Xurés and visit Cabana da Rocalva, promising another day of immersion in nature and local culture. We'll start with breakfast at RESTAURANTE VIDEIRA, have lunch at Encosta do Rio, and end the day with dinner at O Encontro - Por Marcação. Lena is also keen on visiting Cestas e Chocolates Minho, a local shop. Good night from Peneda-Gerês National Park!