Family Adventure in Peneda-Gerês National Park

A Fond Farewell to Gerês

As our family adventure in Peneda-Gerês National Park draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. This final day was a perfect encapsulation of what makes this region so special: stunning natural beauty, charming local culture, and precious moments spent together. It's hard to believe our week-long escape is already over, but the memories we've created here will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

Today started with a hearty breakfast at Essentia do Gerês. We enjoyed regional flavors prepared in a contemporary way. The staff was incredibly kind, making us feel right at home. Fuelled up for our last day of exploration, we set off to discover more of Gerês' hidden gems.


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

Our first stop was Cascata da Rajada. The drive there was scenic, and we parked near the local church, following a moderately challenging trail. The hike took us through the stunning landscapes of Peneda-Gerês National Park. The waterfall itself was a sight to behold. The water cascaded down, forming a beautiful pool at the bottom. Marko was especially thrilled, splashing around and marveling at the power of nature.


Experience the serene beauty of Cascata da Rajada, a breathtaking hiking area in Portugal, famous for its stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After spending a refreshing time at Cascata da Rajada, we headed to Poço da Gola. This artificial lagoon, near Lindoso, offered a different kind of beauty. We took an easy walk along rock-lined trails and over wooden bridges. This was a serene spot, perfect for quiet reflection. Greta and I enjoyed watching Marko explore the area, his curiosity piqued by the old mills nearby. We even discovered a more secluded, natural lagoon with small waterfalls, hidden just at the entrance after the bridge.


Explore Poço da Gola, a breathtaking natural oasis in Peneda-Gerês National Park, where stunning landscapes and serene waters await every adventurer.

For lunch, we chose Restaurante Pedra Bela Gerês. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. We enjoyed traditional Portuguese dishes, savoring the flavors of the region. The portions were generous, and the food tasted homemade. Marko especially enjoyed the *posta na brasa*, while Greta savored the *polvo com broa* (octopus with cornbread). It was the perfect way to recharge after our morning adventures.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors and stunning views at Restaurante Pedra Bela Gerês in Braga.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to experience a bit of local culture at Chamadouro Bar. This rustic bar offered incredible views of the surrounding mountains. I enjoyed a local beer while Greta and Marko shared a cheese board. It was a relaxing way to unwind and soak in the beauty of Gerês one last time. I even learned that the Chamadouro Bar occasionally hosts events, as I overheard some locals discussing a past event called Sementes de Dissidência that took place there earlier in the month.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Northern Portugal at Chamadouro Bar, a charming tapas restaurant and bar in Campo de Gerês.

For our final dinner, we had a reservation at O Encontro - Por Marcação. This restaurant is known for its traditional dishes and cozy atmosphere. The food was delicious, and the service was exceptional. We felt like we were dining with family. Marko especially enjoyed the *rabanadas* (French toast), declaring it the best dessert he'd ever had! Greta and I savored the *galo de cabidela* (stewed rooster in blood sauce), a local specialty.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at O Encontro - Por Marcação in Terras de Bouro; where tradition meets flavor in a warm atmosphere.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Peneda-Gerês National Park had exceeded all of our expectations. The stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and charming local culture had captured our hearts. This trip was not just a vacation; it was an opportunity for our family to bond, explore, and create lasting memories.

Looking back on our week here, I realize how much we've all grown. Marko's curiosity about nature has blossomed, Greta has rediscovered her love for hiking, and I've found a renewed appreciation for the simple things in life. As a software engineer working on renewable energy solutions, it's easy to get caught up in the complexities of technology. But being here, surrounded by nature, has reminded me of the importance of preserving our planet for future generations.

I remember when I first moved from Varaždin, Croatia, to Heidelberg, Germany. It was a big adjustment, but Greta and I built a wonderful life there. Still, there's something special about connecting with nature, something that reminds me of my roots. Sharing this experience with my family has made it even more meaningful.

As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I know that a part of us will always remain in Gerês. This park is a true gem, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking an unforgettable nature getaway. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or on your own, Peneda-Gerês National Park has something to offer everyone.

And while our adventure here is ending, I'm already looking forward to our next journey. Perhaps we'll explore more of Portugal, or maybe we'll venture back to Croatia to rediscover my homeland. Whatever we decide, I know that as long as we're together, we'll continue to create amazing memories.

Thank you, Gerês, for an unforgettable week. Until next time!

Reflecting on our time in Peneda-Gerês National Park, I'm reminded of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the natural world. This trip has been a gift, a chance to reconnect with family and rediscover the beauty that surrounds us. I hope our experiences inspire you to embark on your own adventures and create lasting memories with your loved ones.