Family Adventure in Peneda-Gerês National Park

Gerês Beckons: A Day of Discovery
Today was all about embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. We ventured into the heart of the park, eager to witness the natural wonders that everyone raves about. It was a day filled with fresh air, stunning vistas, and the soothing sounds of cascading water. Marko was especially excited, his little eyes wide with anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead. Greta and I were just as thrilled, ready to soak in the serene atmosphere and create lasting memories with our son.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Encosta do Rio. The restaurant offered a delightful view of the surrounding landscape, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. Marko devoured his pancakes, fueled by the promise of waterfalls and hidden lagoons. Greta and I enjoyed some traditional Portuguese pastries, savoring the sweet start to our day.

After breakfast, we set off towards our first destination: Cascata do Arado. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the park. The landscape was a vibrant tapestry of green, with rolling hills and dense forests stretching as far as the eye could see. As we neared the waterfall, the air grew noticeably cooler, carrying the refreshing mist of the cascading water. We parked the car and took a short, easy hike to the falls. Marko, ever the enthusiastic explorer, skipped ahead, eager to reach the destination.

Reaching Cascata do Arado was like stepping into a postcard. The waterfall cascaded down a rocky cliff, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of water and sound. The pool at the base of the falls was crystal clear, reflecting the surrounding greenery. We spent a good hour simply taking in the view, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling the cool mist on our faces. Marko, of course, couldn't resist getting closer to the water, splashing around and laughing with delight. Greta captured some beautiful photos, preserving the moment for us to relive later.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascata do Arado, a hidden gem in Portugal's Gerês National Park, perfect for hikes and nature exploration.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the simplest of nature's gifts.

After Cascata do Arado, we decided to try to find Poço Azul Gerês. I'd heard whispers about this 'Blue Lagoon' being a hidden gem, and I was determined to discover it. The drive to Poço Azul was a bit more challenging, with narrow, winding roads that tested my driving skills. But the anticipation of what awaited us kept us going. We parked the car and embarked on a slightly longer hike, following a narrow trail through the forest. The trail was uneven and rocky, but Marko, despite his small size, navigated it like a seasoned hiker. Greta and I exchanged amused glances, proud of our little adventurer. We had forgotten to pack our portable phone charger and I was starting to get worried about my phone's battery.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we arrived at Poço Azul. And it was every bit as magical as I had imagined. The water was a stunning shade of turquoise, almost unreal in its vibrancy. The lagoon was surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a secluded, tranquil oasis. It was the perfect spot for a refreshing swim, and Marko was the first one in, his laughter echoing through the forest. Greta and I followed suit, braving the chilly water for a quick dip. It was invigorating, to say the least, and we emerged feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. I remembered how much I loved wild swimming in Croatia as a child, and this felt like a beautiful echo of those memories.


Explore the stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking trails of Poço Azul Gerês, a hiker's paradise in Portugal's national park.

After our swim, we relaxed by the lagoon, enjoying a picnic lunch. We had packed some sandwiches, fruits, and snacks, which we devoured with gusto after our exertions. Marko, of course, had a special treat: a traditional Croatian 'licitar' heart-shaped gingerbread cookie that my mother had sent us. He savored every bite, his face lighting up with joy. As we ate, we marveled at the beauty of our surroundings, grateful for the opportunity to experience such natural wonders.

For lunch, we found ourselves at O Abocanhado, a restaurant that blended seamlessly into the landscape. The architecture was impressive, designed to integrate with the natural surroundings. The food was equally delightful, with traditional Portuguese dishes prepared with a modern twist. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring the flavors and reflecting on our morning adventures. Marko, tired but happy, fell asleep in his chair, his little face peaceful and content. Greta and I smiled at each other, our hearts full of love and gratitude.


Discover O Abocanhado: An exquisite restaurant offering traditional Portuguese cuisine amidst Brufe's stunning landscapes.

In the late afternoon, we decided to do some shopping at the Eco Store in Arcos de Valdevez. Greta was keen to find some sustainable souvenirs, and I was interested in seeing what eco-friendly products they had on offer. The store was a treasure trove of unique items, from handmade crafts to organic cosmetics. We picked up a few gifts for friends and family back home, and I even found a stylish reusable water bottle for myself. It's always nice to support local businesses that are committed to sustainability. I made a mental note to buy a first aid kit as I remembered that we had forgotten it.


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

As evening approached, we made our way to Essentia do Gerês for dinner. The restaurant was known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We were greeted with warm hospitality and shown to a table with a stunning view. The food was delicious, with hearty, flavorful dishes that satisfied our appetites. Marko, revived after his nap, enjoyed a plate of grilled chicken, while Greta and I savored some local specialties. The restaurant was located in Águas do Gerês Hotel, where you can also enjoy a meal at the snack bar.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine surrounded by stunning landscapes at Essentia do Gerês in Terras de Bouro.

As we drove back to our accommodation, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The sky was ablaze with color, a breathtaking spectacle that brought our day to a perfect close. We were tired but content, our hearts full of memories and gratitude. Peneda-Gerês National Park had exceeded our expectations, offering a day of adventure, beauty, and connection.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the park's hidden gems, including Cascata de Cela Cavalos and Minas dos Carris. We'll also be stopping by Pirata Do Gerês for a well-deserved drink. I can't wait to see what other wonders await us on this incredible journey.

Today was a reminder of why we love to travel as a family. These shared experiences, these moments of discovery and connection, are what make life truly rich. And I'm grateful for every opportunity to create these memories with Greta and Marko. As I reflect on our day, I realize that it's not just about the places we visit, but about the people we share them with. And I couldn't ask for better travel companions than my wife and son. We´ll sleep well tonight!

I'm already excited about tomorrow's itinerary, especially the visit to Cascata de Cela Cavalos and Minas dos Carris. And, of course, I'm looking forward to unwinding at Pirata Do Gerês. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and unforgettable moments. I think Marko will especially enjoy the visit to the mines!

Thinking about the weather, I am glad it wasn't too hot, with temperatures ranging from 66°F to 75°F, which made the hikes very pleasant. I am also glad that we decided to come in June, as I read that the weather is perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration during this time, without the crowds of July and August.

We're so glad we decided to take this trip to Peneda-Gerês National Park. It's a reminder that sometimes the best things in life are the simplest ones: a beautiful waterfall, a refreshing swim, and the love of family.