Solo Escape to Peneda-Gerês National Park

A Day of Discovery in Portugal's Green Heart

Today marked the start of my solo adventure into the heart of Peneda-Gerês National Park, and what a day it was! I traded the familiar hum of Berlin for the crisp, clean air of northern Portugal, eager to lose myself in its famed natural beauty. While Maximilian is holding down the fort back home, I was ready to embrace the solitude and serenity of this hiker's paradise.

The journey itself was fairly straightforward. A flight from Berlin to Porto, followed by a combination of train and local bus, eventually deposited me at the doorstep of the park. The air is noticeably crisper here, a welcome change from the city. The temperature is cool, hovering between 4°C and 11°C, perfect for hiking as long as I keep moving. I was glad I packed plenty of warm layers; December in Portugal is a different beast than I'm used to! I checked my backpack and realized I had forgotten my portable water filter and a detailed map of the hiking trails. Note to self: double-check the essentials next time!

My first stop was breakfast at Casa Albelo do Gerês. The view was simply unmatched! I enjoyed fresh eggs, fruits, and local cheeses while looking out over the stunning landscape. The hosts were incredibly welcoming, making me feel right at home. They were also quite helpful with tips about the park.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine and cozy accommodations at Casa Albelo do Geres, where tradition meets comfort in beautiful Outeiro.

After breakfast, I made a quick stop at Loja do Parque to pick up some local treats and learn more about the area. It’s a great little shop offering regional products and insights into the park's culture.


Explore Loja do Parque: Your ultimate destination for unique Portuguese crafts and local treasures in a charming atmosphere.

With a full stomach and a sense of direction, I set off to Miradouro da Preguiça. The drive there was scenic, winding through charming villages and offering glimpses of the vast landscapes that awaited. The short, 50-meter climb to the viewpoint was more than worth it. The panoramic views of the Gerês valley and the Caniçada reservoir were breathtaking. I could see for miles, the rolling hills painted in shades of green and brown, a stark contrast to the urban landscape I'm used to.


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

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

Next on the list was Cascata do Arado, one of the park's most famous waterfalls. The drive to the waterfall was an adventure in itself, with a dirt road leading close to the site. I parked near the Arado Bridge and continued on foot, climbing a few steps to reach the viewpoint. The waterfall was stunning, a series of cascades carving their way through the rocks. I spent some time taking photos, trying to capture the raw beauty of the place. I read that swimming isn't really recommended there, and I didn't see anyone attempting it anyway. I can imagine that in warmer months, it would be tempting to take a dip in one of the natural pools.


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

After the waterfall, I decided to hike to Poço Azul Gerês, a hidden gem known for its turquoise waters. The trail from Cascata do Arado is about 9 km round trip, and it took me around three hours. The hike was moderately challenging, with some steep inclines and rocky paths, but the scenery was incredible. The path meandered through lush forests and offered glimpses of the surrounding mountains. I passed by the Miradouro das Rocas, which offered another stunning view of the park.


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

Reaching Poço Azul was like stepping into a dream. The water was an unbelievable shade of turquoise, crystal clear and inviting. Despite the chilly weather, I couldn't resist dipping my toes in the water. It was freezing, but the experience was worth it. I spent some time soaking in the atmosphere, enjoying the peace and quiet of this hidden oasis. I can see why it's considered one of the park's best-kept secrets.

As the sun began to set, I made my way back to the starting point, my legs tired but my spirit rejuvenated. The park was quiet, the only sounds the rustling of leaves and the occasional birdsong. I felt a sense of accomplishment, having conquered the trails and witnessed the beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Before heading back to my accommodation, I treated myself to dinner at Essentia do Gerês. I decided to try the “Cabrito à Essentia,” a local specialty, and it was delicious. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff was friendly and attentive.


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

The day ended with a feeling of deep satisfaction. Peneda-Gerês National Park had exceeded all my expectations. Its natural beauty, combined with the peace and quiet, made it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which include visits to Miradouro de Junceda, Cascata de Cela Cavalos, and Minas dos Carris. I might even check out Pirata Do Gerês for a drink in the evening. For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploring this incredible park.

Peneda-Gerês in December is proving to be a truly magical experience. The crisp air, the stunning landscapes, and the absence of crowds make it a perfect destination for a solo traveler seeking solace and adventure. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Thinking back to Berlin, I sent Maximilian a message, telling him all about my day. I know he would have loved to see Poço Azul. Maybe next time, we can explore this beautiful park together.

Tomorrow, I plan to have breakfast at Restaurante Pedra Bela Gerês before heading out to Miradouro de Junceda for some more panoramic views. Then it's on to Cascata de Cela Cavalos and the historic Minas dos Carris. It sounds like another day packed with natural beauty and exploration. I'm excited to see what Gerês has in store for me! I'm also planning to try Restaurante Cerdeira for dinner tomorrow night. I heard they have great local cuisine! And if I'm not too tired, I might check out Pirata Do Gerês for a drink in the evening.

As I settle into my tent for the night, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to connect with nature and recharge my batteries. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel and share my experiences with all of you. Stay tuned for more adventures from Peneda-Gerês National Park!