Exploring the Natural Wonders of Peneda-Gerês National Park

Gerês Heights & Hidden Havens

Today was a day of conquering heights and immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. Klaus and I set out early, eager to explore the park's most iconic landmarks. From scaling the highest peak to wandering through ancient woodlands, it was a day filled with breathtaking views and tranquil moments. I was especially grateful I had remembered my hiking boots. The only thing that could have made it better was if I hadn't forgotten the portable phone charger!

Our first stop was Pico da Nevosa, the highest point in the park, standing tall at 1548 meters. The drive there was an adventure in itself, with winding roads offering glimpses of the stunning landscapes that awaited us. As we ascended, the temperature dropped slightly, a refreshing change from the mild morning air. October in Peneda-Gerês is truly magical, with the weather being mildly cool and breezy. I made sure to wear layers, as I had learned my lesson from previous hiking trips.

The hike to the summit was challenging, a difficulty level four, requiring excellent physical and mental condition. The trail was rugged, with rocky paths and steep inclines, but the panoramic views that unfolded with each step kept us motivated. Klaus, ever the supportive husband, kept me going with his witty remarks and shared water breaks. He reminded me of that German idiom he taught me, “den inneren Schweinehund überwinden,” which means “to overcome your inner pig dog” – basically, to conquer your laziness!.

The higher you climb, the more breathtaking the world becomes.

Reaching the summit of Pico da Nevosa was an exhilarating experience. The views were simply unforgettable, stretching across the entire national park and beyond. We could see the rolling hills, lush valleys, and distant villages, all bathed in the soft October light. I took countless photos, trying to capture the sheer beauty of the landscape, knowing full well that no picture could truly do it justice. We even saw some endemic plants and wildlife, adding to the richness of the experience. I felt a profound sense of accomplishment, knowing we had conquered the highest peak in Gerês. I even managed to get a few good shots with my camera, although I wished Olivia was here to share this with us. She would have loved it.


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, we drove to Mata de Albergaria, an ancient forest known for its rich biodiversity and historical significance. As we entered the forest, we were immediately enveloped by the tranquility of the surroundings. The towering oak and pyrenaica trees created a cathedral-like atmosphere, with sunlight filtering through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the scent of damp earth and pine.

Walking through Mata de Albergaria felt like stepping back in time. This forest has been designated as a National Forest of Gerês since 1888. The ancient Roman road, Via Nova, which once stretched 318 kilometers, runs through the forest, and we walked along a perfectly preserved section of it. It was awe-inspiring to think that we were walking on the same path that Roman soldiers and traders had walked centuries ago. Klaus, with his architect's eye, was fascinated by the stonework and the way the road had been integrated into the natural landscape.

We spent a couple of hours exploring Mata de Albergaria, taking in the serene beauty and rich history. We spotted several deer grazing peacefully in the undergrowth and listened to the melodic songs of the various bird species that call this forest home. It was a truly immersive experience, connecting us with nature and the past. I was so engrossed in the scenery that I almost forgot about my aching feet!


Explore the lush landscapes of Mata de Albergaria, a serene national forest in Gerês National Park, perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and rejuvenating nature escapes.

Our final stop of the day was Miradouro da Ermida, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Gerês mountains and the surrounding countryside. The viewpoint is located near the village of Ermida, at an altitude of about 550 meters. As we arrived, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape.

From Miradouro da Ermida, we could see the terraced fields surrounding the village, the deep valleys carved by the Carcerelha and Froufe rivers, and the majestic Lima River in the distance. Some say that on a clear day, you can even see the ocean from here. Although we couldn't see the ocean, the view was still breathtaking, offering a perfect end to our day of exploration.


Experience the serene beauty and breathtaking views at Miradouro da Ermida, a hidden gem in Portugal's picturesque countryside.

After a day filled with such incredible sights, our stomachs were beginning to rumble. We drove to Vai... Vai Gerês for a hearty breakfast to kickstart our adventures. The tamboril and francesinha were absolutely delightful. It was the perfect fuel for our morning hike. For lunch, we stopped at O Pimpão, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Portuguese cuisine. I had the filet américain, which was cooked to perfection, and Klaus enjoyed the grilled meat, raving about the fresh, local ingredients. We enjoyed the meal while admiring the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.


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


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at O Pimpão in Gerês—where culinary tradition meets breathtaking nature.

As evening approached, we made our way to Restaurante Espigueiro do Soajo for dinner. This restaurant is famous for its Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisines, and it did not disappoint. I savored the perfectly cooked veal, while Klaus indulged in the cod. We ended the meal with a slice of the tasty cheesecake and a cup of coffee.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurante Espigueiro do Soajo – where every dish tells a story.

To cap off the day, we visited Marina Bar for a relaxing drink. Located by the scenic Rio Caldo, this bar offers stunning views of the river and a tranquil atmosphere. We enjoyed local wines and refreshing cocktails, soaking in the serene environment and reflecting on the incredible day we had.


Experience delightful cuisine with breathtaking views at Marina Bar in Gerês National Park—a haven for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Pitões das Júnias cascata, Espigueiro de Alecrimes, and Parque das Termas (Gerês). I'm particularly excited about the waterfall and the thermal park. It will be another day of discovering the natural wonders of Peneda-Gerês. I'll definitely make sure I have my portable phone charger with me this time!

“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.” – John Muir. Today, Klaus and I definitely took the dirt path, and it was worth every step. As we drove back to our cozy cabin, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore such a beautiful and diverse national park. Peneda-Gerês is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

It’s days like these that remind me why I love travel so much. It's not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new things, connecting with nature, and creating lasting memories. And sharing those experiences with Klaus makes it all the more special. As we settled in for the night, I couldn't help but smile, already looking forward to our next adventure in Peneda-Gerês. It's amazing how a day in nature can rejuvenate the soul and remind you of the simple joys in life. And with that, I bid you goodnight from the heart of Gerês.