Family Adventure in Peneda-Gerês National Park

A Day of Discovery in Gerês

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the raw beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. We set out to explore some of its most picturesque spots, and the day certainly didn't disappoint. From panoramic viewpoints to cascading waterfalls, every moment was a feast for the senses. It’s days like these that remind me why we crave these family adventures, escaping the city and reconnecting with nature.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bem Cozinhado. It’s a cozy spot, perfect for fueling up before a day of hiking. I had a strong coffee and a pastel de nata (or two!), while Greta enjoyed some fresh fruit and yogurt. Marko, of course, went straight for the pastries. With our bellies full, we were ready to start our adventure.

Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Bem Cozinhado in Souto - where every meal tells a story of tradition and flavor.

First on the agenda was the Miradouro da Preguiça. The name, which translates to Viewpoint of Laziness, is quite ironic, considering the effort it took to get there! The drive itself was stunning, with winding roads offering glimpses of the vast landscape. As we neared the viewpoint, the anticipation grew. The parking area was conveniently located, and from there, it was a short walk to the edge. And what a view it was!

Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Miradouro da Preguiça in Vilar da Veiga, a perfect escape for nature lovers and travelers.

The vista opened up to reveal the Gerês valley, stretching out before us with the Albufeira da Caniçada shimmering in the distance. The rolling hills, blanketed in various shades of green, created a breathtaking panorama. Marko was particularly excited, pointing out the different rock formations and trying to spot animals in the distance with his binoculars. Greta and I simply stood there, soaking it all in. It’s moments like these that make all the planning and packing worthwhile. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photo could truly do justice to the sheer scale and beauty of the landscape.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that require a little effort, leading to discoveries that leave you breathless.

After spending a good hour at the Miradouro da Preguiça, we packed up and headed towards our next destination: the Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas, also known as the Cascatas do Tahiti. I had seen pictures of these waterfalls online, but I was eager to experience them in person. The drive to the waterfalls took us through charming little villages and more of the park's stunning scenery. We parked near the bridge, joining a handful of other cars, and started our descent towards the river.

Explore the breathtaking Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas, a stunning hiking area with captivating waterfalls and lush landscapes in Portugal.

The trail down to the Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas was a bit steep and rocky, but Marko, ever the adventurous one, took the lead, carefully navigating the path. As we got closer, we could hear the sound of rushing water, which only heightened our excitement. And then, we saw them. The Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas were even more beautiful than I had imagined. The water cascaded down the rocks in multiple tiers, forming small, natural pools. The lush greenery surrounding the waterfalls added to the tropical feel, which is probably why they’re nicknamed “Tahiti Waterfalls.”

Marko immediately wanted to jump in, and after testing the water (it was refreshingly cold!), we let him. He splashed around with pure joy, exploring the different pools and marveling at the tiny fish swimming around. Greta and I sat on the rocks, enjoying the cool mist and the tranquil atmosphere. It was the perfect spot to relax and unwind, surrounded by the sounds of nature. I even managed to take a few dips myself, braving the chilly water for a truly invigorating experience.

We spent a couple of hours at the waterfalls, soaking up the sun and enjoying the natural beauty. Reluctantly, we decided it was time to head back, as our stomachs were starting to rumble. Before leaving the area, we made a quick stop at Supermercado Amanhecer Gerês to grab some snacks and drinks for the road. It’s always good to have something on hand, especially when traveling with a six-year-old.

Experience local flavors at Supermercado Amanhecer Gerês, your one-stop destination for fresh produce and regional delicacies in the heart of Gerês.

For lunch, we stopped at Vai... Vai Gerês. We opted for some traditional Portuguese sandwiches and salads. The food was simple but delicious, and the outdoor seating area offered a lovely view of the surrounding hills. Marko devoured his sandwich in record time, declaring it the best lunch ever. It's amazing how much he appreciates the simple things when we're out in nature.

Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine in the heart of Peneda-Gerês National Park at Vai... Vai Gerês.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restaurante Fojo dos Lobos for dinner. I had heard great things about their traditional Portuguese cuisine, and I was eager to try it. The restaurant is located in a charming village, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We started with some local cheese and olives, followed by a hearty cozido à portuguesa (a traditional Portuguese stew). The food was absolutely delicious, and the portions were generous. Marko, surprisingly, enjoyed the stew as well, trying all the different meats and vegetables. Greta and I savored every bite, feeling grateful for another wonderful day in Portugal.

Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurante Fojo dos Lobos in Peneda-Gerês National Park - a true culinary delight surrounded by nature.

After dinner, as we drove back to our accommodation, we reflected on the day's adventures. The Miradouro da Preguiça and the Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas were definitely the highlights, showcasing the natural beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. It's amazing how much this park has to offer, from its stunning landscapes to its charming villages and delicious food. I'm so glad we decided to include it in our family trip. It’s experiences like these that create lasting memories and strengthen our bond as a family.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the higher altitudes of the park, with a visit to Pico da Nevosa, the highest point in Gerês. I’m a bit nervous about the hike, but I’m also excited to see the views from the top. We’ll also be visiting the ancient Mata de Albergaria, a forest that’s been around since Roman times. It sounds like another day filled with adventure and discovery. And who knows, maybe we’ll even stumble upon another hidden waterfall or breathtaking viewpoint. Until then, boa noite from Gerês!