Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park

Whispers of the Forest and Waterfalls of Wonder

Today was a symphony of nature's finest compositions. Lena and I ventured deep into the heart of Peneda-Gerês, where the ancient Mata de Albergaria whispered tales of centuries past, and the Cascata da Portela do Homem unveiled its majestic beauty. It was a day of serene exploration, punctuated by the soothing sounds of water and the rustling of leaves – a perfect escape from the everyday hustle.


Explore the lush landscapes of Mata de Albergaria, a serene national forest in Gerês National Park, perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and rejuvenating nature escapes.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Cantinho do Antigamente in Covide. The name itself, meaning 'corner of the old days,' hinted at the traditional charm we were about to experience. The restaurant was cozy, with linen-covered tables and meals served in earthenware. I savored the opportunity to try some of the local breakfast cuisine. Lena enjoyed some eggs and fresh bread, while I opted for a local pastry. We both enjoyed strong coffee, fueling up for the day’s adventures. It’s these simple, authentic moments that truly make a trip memorable. As a sound engineer, I always appreciate the ambiance of a place, and Cantinho do Antigamente had a comforting, welcoming sound to it – a gentle hum of conversation and the clinking of cutlery, a far cry from the urban soundscapes I'm used to.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off towards Mata de Albergaria. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering glimpses of the park's stunning landscapes. As we approached the forest, the air grew cooler, and the scent of pine and damp earth filled our lungs. Mata de Albergaria is one of the most important forests in the Peneda-Gerês National Park. It’s predominantly an ancient oak forest that includes characteristic species of the Gerês fauna and flora.

Stepping into Mata de Albergaria felt like entering another world. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating dappled patterns on the forest floor. The ancient oak trees, some centuries old, stood tall and proud, their gnarled branches reaching towards the sky. Lena and I walked hand-in-hand along the well-trodden paths, marveling at the sheer beauty and tranquility of the place. The forest is known for its biodiversity, and I tried my best to identify the various species of trees and plants, while Lena, with her keen eye, spotted several birds flitting among the branches. I made sure to record the sounds of the forest with my portable audio recorder, capturing the rustling leaves, the gentle breeze, and the occasional bird call, hoping to recreate the experience later in my Potsdam studio.

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

We even came across a section of the old Roman road, Geira, a testament to the area's rich history. It was fascinating to imagine Roman soldiers marching along the same path centuries ago. The Geira is recognized as one of the greatest engineering works of antiquity in Portugal. Walking along this ancient path, I felt a deep connection to the past, a sense of continuity that transcended time. We were mindful of the park's regulations, sticking to the trails and avoiding any disturbance to the delicate ecosystem. We made sure to leave no trace behind, carrying out everything we brought in, a practice Lena is especially passionate about, given her work as a kindergarten teacher, instilling these values in the next generation.

After immersing ourselves in the serene embrace of Mata de Albergaria, we drove towards our next destination: Cascata da Portela do Homem. The drive was short, but the anticipation grew with each passing kilometer. As we neared the waterfall, we could hear the distant roar of cascading water, a symphony of nature that beckoned us closer. The waterfall is located near the Spanish border.


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.

The last couple of kilometers to the waterfall have to be done by foot. The sight of Cascata da Portela do Homem was nothing short of breathtaking. The water tumbled down the rocks, forming a series of cascades and lagoons. The crystal-clear water sparkled in the sunlight, inviting us to take a refreshing dip. Although tempted, we resisted the urge, knowing that the water would be icy cold even in August. Instead, we found a quiet spot to sit and admire the view, soaking in the beauty and power of nature. The area is framed by picturesque mountains and cliffs. The waterfall is easily accessible, which makes it a popular spot, but even with other visitors around, we found a sense of peace and solitude in the presence of such natural grandeur. As a sound engineer, I was particularly fascinated by the acoustics of the waterfall – the way the sound reverberated off the rocks, creating a unique and immersive experience. I closed my eyes for a moment, letting the sound wash over me, feeling a sense of calm and renewal.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante Retiro do Gerês. The restaurant had a lovely atmosphere and decor. Lena had a rice salad with wild asparagus, mushrooms and cherry tomatoes. I chose a meat dish. The staff was friendly and the service was great.

Before heading back, we made a quick stop at the Eco Store. I was hoping to find a portable phone charger, since I had forgotten mine. Unfortunately, they didn’t have what I was looking for, but Lena found some locally made crafts. We purchased a couple of small souvenirs as a reminder of our time in Gerês. I also picked up a detailed map of the park, eager to plan our next adventure.


Discover Eco Store in Arcos de Valdevez for sustainable office supplies, cleaning products, and creative crafting materials that support eco-friendly living.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Restaurante Adega Ramalho for dinner. The restaurant is known for its traditional Portuguese dishes made with local ingredients. We shared a delicious meal of grilled meats and fresh seafood, accompanied by a bottle of regional wine. The restaurant had a warm and inviting ambiance, and the staff was incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. The stunning views added to the dining experience. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Trilho da Preguiça and visit the Viewpoint Lindoso. I am looking forward to seeing more of the park and discovering new hidden gems.

Today was a reminder of why we embarked on this journey in the first place – to reconnect with nature, to escape the noise and stress of modern life, and to create lasting memories together. As we drove back to our guesthouse, I felt a sense of gratitude for the beauty and wonder that surrounds us, if only we take the time to look. And as I drifted off to sleep, I could still hear the whispers of the forest and the roar of the waterfall, a lullaby of nature that soothed my soul. The symphony of sounds from today will be a great inspiration for my work when I return to Potsdam.

Lena and I feel incredibly fortunate to have experienced such a magical day together. It's moments like these that strengthen our bond and remind us of the simple joys in life. As we continue our journey through Peneda-Gerês National Park, I am filled with excitement for what tomorrow may bring. Until then, goodnight from Portugal!