A Solo Adventure in Peneda-Gerês National Park

A Day of Discoveries in Gerês

Today was all about embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. I set out early, eager to explore the vistas and hidden waterfalls that this landscape promised. It was a day filled with panoramic views, invigorating hikes, and moments of quiet reflection amidst nature's grandeur.

My morning began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Cantinho do Antigamente in Covide. This charming spot is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine, and I was eager to fuel up for the day ahead. I savored a delightful meal of *pataniscas com arroz de feijão*. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a perfect start to my adventures. It's these small, authentic experiences that truly enrich a journey. The restaurant is part of the Calcedónia - Fundação para o Desenvolvimento Rural project, which aims to preserve the Minho culinary tradition. You could really taste that they only used local products.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I drove towards my first destination: Miradouro de Junceda. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering glimpses of the stunning landscapes that lay ahead. As I ascended, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. I parked the car and walked the short distance to the viewpoint.

The view from Miradouro de Junceda was nothing short of breathtaking. Perched at 915 meters, it offered a panoramic vista of the entire Gerês valley. From this vantage point, I could see the mountain tops and the Caniçada reservoir. The vastness of the landscape was humbling, a reminder of nature’s power and scale. I spent a good while there, simply absorbing the view and feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such beauty.


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

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet contemplation of nature's artistry.

Next on my list was Pico da Nevosa, the highest point in the park. The drive to the trailhead was an adventure in itself, navigating narrow, winding roads that climbed higher and higher into the mountains. The landscape transformed with every turn, from lush green valleys to rugged, rocky terrain.

The hike to Pico da Nevosa was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The trail was steep in places, and the altitude definitely made it harder to breath, but the views along the way were worth every ounce of effort. The weather was cloudy, with a temperature of around 2°C, but the visibility was still good. As I ascended, the landscape became increasingly dramatic, with granite peaks and windswept vegetation.

Reaching the summit of Pico da Nevosa was an exhilarating experience. At 1,548 meters, I felt like I was on top of the world. Despite the clouds, the views were stunning, with the entire park stretching out below me. I could see the Serra da Peneda and Serra do Gerês, as well as the Serra Amarela and Serra do Soajo. I took some time to soak in the scenery and capture a few photos, feeling a deep sense of accomplishment.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pico da Nevosa, a must-visit tourist attraction in Serra do Gerês, Portugal, offering stunning views and thrilling hikes.

After descending from Pico da Nevosa, I was ready for a late lunch. I drove to Essentia do Gerês, a restaurant known for its modern take on regional cuisine. I enjoyed a delicious meal, savoring the flavors of local ingredients prepared with creativity and flair. The restaurant had a welcoming ambiance, and the staff were friendly and attentive.


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

With renewed energy, I set off to my final destination of the day: Cascata de Cela Cavalos. The drive to the waterfall took me through more of the park's stunning landscapes, with forests, meadows, and picturesque villages dotting the route. As I approached the waterfall, I could hear the sound of rushing water, a symphony of nature that grew louder with each step.

The hike to Cascata de Cela Cavalos was relatively short but required some careful footing. The trail led through a forest, with sunlight filtering through the trees and creating dappled patterns on the ground. The air was cool and damp, and the scent of moss and ferns filled my nostrils.

Cascata de Cela Cavalos was a sight to behold. The water cascaded down the rocks, forming a natural pool at the bottom. The surrounding landscape was lush and green, creating a serene and idyllic setting. I spent some time there, enjoying the beauty of the waterfall and the tranquility of the surroundings. According to locals, there's also a hidden lagoon with emerald waters at the top of the waterfall.


Explore the enchanting Cascata de Cela Cavalos in Outeiro, a captivating waterfall surrounded by nature's beauty, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

Before heading back, I made a quick stop at Peneda Gerês Adventure Center by Tobogã. Although I didn't have time for a full-fledged adventure activity, I wanted to see what they offered. They have a range of tours that include canyoning and e-biking. Maybe I'll try canyoning tomorrow.


Discover the adventure of a lifetime at Peneda Gerês Adventure Center by Tobogã, where thrilling outdoor activities await amidst stunning natural beauty.

For dinner, I chose Restaurante Pedra Bela Gerês. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring the park. The service was exceptional and the food was delicious. I felt very welcome.


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

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. Peneda-Gerês National Park has exceeded all my expectations, offering a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural richness. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when I plan to explore the Calcedónia Fault, Pitões das Júnias waterfall and the Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas. I'm also hoping to check out the Marina Bar.

Tomorrow is going to be another amazing day.