Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park

A Journey Begins

Today marked the beginning of our 11-day adventure in Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês, and what a start it has been! Leaving behind the familiar sounds of Potsdam, Lena and I were eager to immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of Portugal's only national park. From the moment we landed in Porto and picked up our rental car, a sense of excitement filled the air. The drive to Gerês was scenic, and as we approached the park, the landscape transformed into a breathtaking panorama of rolling hills and lush forests.


Experience the natural splendor and adventure of Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês, a top destination for tourists seeking stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.

Our first stop was breakfast at Casa Albelo do Gerês. Nestled in Montalegre, this place is a hidden gem. The drive up was a bit winding, but the views were more than worth it. We sat on the terrace, overlooking the shimmering lake and surrounding mountains, enjoying a hearty breakfast of local cheeses, fresh bread, and strong coffee. The owners, Fernanda and Miguel, were incredibly welcoming, sharing stories about the area and their family history. It felt like we were starting our journey with a warm embrace from the heart of Portugal. Casa Albelo do Gerês truly is a tranquil paradise, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature's splendor.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we headed into the heart of the park. The weather in August is wonderfully warm, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 14°C to 29°C. Perfect for hiking and exploring! Our first official stop was the iconic Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês itself.

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

We decided to start with a leisurely hike, wanting to get a feel for the terrain before tackling anything too strenuous. The park is vast, covering over 70,000 hectares, and I knew we wouldn't be able to see it all in one day. As we walked, I was struck by the incredible biodiversity of the area. Lush forests of oak and pine covered the hillsides, and wildflowers bloomed in vibrant colors along the trails. It was a sensory feast – the scent of pine, the sound of birdsong, and the sight of vibrant greenery all around. Lena, ever the keen observer, pointed out various plant species, her knowledge from teaching kindergarten always adding a layer of depth to our explorations.

One of the highlights of our hike was spotting a few Garrano ponies, the small wild horses that roam freely in the park. They were beautiful creatures, with their shaggy coats and gentle eyes. It was a magical moment, seeing them graze peacefully in their natural habitat. I managed to capture a few photos with my audio recorder, always trying to find ways to blend my love for sound with my passion for travel.

Next on our list was the Miradouro de Junceda, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Gerês valley. The drive up was a bit of an adventure in itself, with a dirt road full of potholes. But the view from the top was simply breathtaking. From 915 meters high, we could see the entire valley, from the mountain tops to the Caniçada reservoir. The landscape was a tapestry of greens and blues, with the sun casting a golden glow over everything. We found a shaded area and enjoyed a picnic lunch, savoring the moment and the stunning vista.


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

After soaking in the views, we decided to visit Loja do Parque, a local shop in Covide. This charming store offers a variety of products from the Peneda-Gerês National Park. It’s a perfect spot to find unique Portuguese crafts and local treasures. I picked up a small, handcrafted bouzouki as a memento of our trip, while Lena chose some local honey and cheese. Supporting the local economy and tasting regional delicacies is always a rewarding experience. The staff were incredibly friendly, sharing stories about the local artisans and the history behind the products. It felt good to connect with the community and learn more about the region's heritage.


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 Soajo for dinner at Restaurante Espigueiro do Soajo. This restaurant is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and warm, family atmosphere. We sat on the outdoor terrace, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sounds of the village. I ordered the perfectly cooked veal, while Lena opted for the cod. Both dishes were incredibly flavorful, showcasing the best of Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisine. The portions were generous, and the service was excellent. We finished our meal with some tasty cheesecakes and good honey cakes, the perfect ending to a day of exploration.


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

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a stroll through the village of Soajo, admiring the ancient espigueiros (granaries) that dot the landscape. These stone structures, used for drying corn, are a unique feature of the region and a testament to its agricultural heritage. The village exuded a sense of timelessness, and it was easy to imagine life here centuries ago.

Our first day in Peneda-Gerês National Park was nothing short of magical. From the stunning landscapes to the warm hospitality of the locals, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. As we settle into our guesthouse for the night, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Cascata do Arado and Poço Azul Gerês. I'm excited to see what other hidden gems this beautiful park has in store for us. And hopefully, I won't forget the raincoat, binoculars and portable phone charger again!