Exploring the Natural Wonders of Peneda-Gerês National Park

Whispers of the Past, Splashes of the Present

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of nature's raw power and the gentle touch of human history. Klaus and I set out with a sense of anticipation, ready to embrace whatever hidden gems Peneda-Gerês National Park had in store for us. As a horticultural consultant, I'm always eager to see how nature and human cultivation intertwine, and today was a perfect example of that harmony.

Our first stop was the stunning Pitões das Júnias cascata. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding through narrow, stone-paved roads that seemed to transport us back in time. The village of Pitões das Júnias, perched high in the mountains, felt like a world apart. As we parked the car and started our walk towards the waterfall, the crisp mountain air filled our lungs, invigorating us for the trek ahead.

The trail to the cascata was a delightful mix of easy paths and slightly more challenging rocky sections. The sound of rushing water grew louder as we approached, building our anticipation. And then, there it was – a magnificent waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff into a crystal-clear pool below. The sheer power of the water was mesmerizing, and we stood there for a long time, simply taking in the beauty of it all. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos, trying to capture the moment, but as always, the real thing was far more impressive than any picture could convey.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pitões das Júnias Cascata, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by nature's serenity in Portugal.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After spending a good hour at the waterfall, we decided to explore the village of Pitões das Júnias itself. It's a place steeped in history, with ancient stone houses and narrow alleyways that whisper tales of generations past. We even saw the ruins of a monastery, a silent testament to the village's rich heritage. It was fascinating to imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago, so different from our modern world in Heidelberg.

Next on our itinerary was the Espigueiro de Alecrimes. I had read about these traditional granaries, but seeing them in person was a completely different experience. These raised structures, built from stone and wood, are designed to store corn and other grains, protecting them from moisture and pests. The Espigueiro de Alecrimes was particularly charming, with its weathered stones and intricate details. Klaus, with his architect's eye, was fascinated by the construction techniques and the way the granary blended seamlessly into the landscape. It was a testament to the ingenuity of the local people, who have found sustainable ways to live in harmony with nature for centuries.


Explore the Espigueiro de Alecrimes, a captivating granary in Terras de Bouro, showcasing Portugal's rich agricultural heritage amid breathtaking landscapes.

For lunch, we stopped at Bem Cozinhado, a local restaurant in Terras de Bouro. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered some traditional Portuguese dishes, including grilled fish and roasted vegetables, all made with fresh, local ingredients. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning adventures.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of relaxation at the Parque das Termas (Gerês). This thermal park is a haven of tranquility, with lush gardens, a serene lake, and of course, the thermal waters themselves. We strolled through the park, admiring the ancient trees and the peaceful atmosphere. Although the weather was pleasant, we decided to skip the thermal pools this time, but it was still a lovely experience to simply soak in the ambiance of the place.


Experience the tranquility and healing powers of nature at Parque das Termas, a stunning park in the heart of Gerês, Portugal.

Before dinner, we made a quick stop at the Eco Store. I was hoping to find some locally made crafts or souvenirs, but it turned out to be more of a general store. Nevertheless, we picked up a few snacks and drinks for the road, supporting the local economy in our own small way. There seem to be other Eco-friendly options in the area, such as Villa Árvore Gerês Eco Nature and Peneda ecofarm, that I'll try to check out another time.


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

For dinner, we had reservations at Restaurante Pedra Bela Gerês. This restaurant is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and its stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The reviews I read mentioned the attentive service and home-style cooking. We started with some local cheeses and olives, followed by a hearty stew made with regional meats and vegetables. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring the natural and cultural wonders of Peneda-Gerês National Park.


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

As we drove back to our cabin, the stars began to emerge, twinkling in the clear night sky. We talked about all the amazing things we had seen and done today, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience this beautiful part of Portugal together. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, connecting us to nature, history, and each other.

Before drifting off to sleep, I glanced at our itinerary for tomorrow. We're planning to visit Poço Azul Gerês, Miradouro da Fraga Negra, and Fonte da Batoca. Another day filled with natural beauty and exploration awaits, and I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow will bring. Perhaps we'll even stop at Chamadouro Bar for a nightcap.

As I reflect on today's journey, I'm reminded of why I love exploring places like Peneda-Gerês. It's not just about seeing beautiful landscapes or ticking off items on a list. It's about immersing ourselves in the local culture, connecting with the people, and appreciating the simple things in life. It's about finding that perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, of nature and history, that nourishes the soul and enriches our lives. And as we continue our journey through this remarkable national park, I know that there are many more such moments waiting to be discovered.