Solo Adventure in Peneda-Gerês National Park

A Day of Discoveries in Gerês

Today was all about embracing the natural beauty and sustainable spirit of Peneda-Gerês National Park. From breathtaking viewpoints to refreshing swims and eco-conscious shopping, it was a day packed with experiences that resonated with my love for nature and commitment to sustainable living. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you’re traveling solo!

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Petiscos da Bó Gusta in Vilar da Veiga. I had read some great reviews online, and I was eager to try their traditional Portuguese dishes. The restaurant was charming, with a cozy atmosphere that made me feel right at home. I ordered a ‘meia de leite’ (coffee with milk) and a ‘pão com chouriço’ (bread with chorizo), a simple but satisfying way to start the day. Fuelled up, I set off for my first stop: Miradouro da Preguiça.


Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Miradouro da Preguiça in Vilar da Veiga, a perfect escape for nature lovers and travelers.
The drive to Miradouro da Preguiça was scenic, with winding roads offering glimpses of the stunning landscapes that define Gerês National Park. The weather was perfect, a sunny July day with a gentle breeze – ideal for hiking and exploring. When I arrived at the viewpoint, I was immediately struck by the panoramic vista. The Miradouro da Preguiça, aptly named the “Viewpoint of Laziness”, is easily accessible with just a short, steep walk, but the reward is immense. From there, I could see the Cascata da Laja and the impressive cliffs, a truly breathtaking sight. I spent some time taking photos and simply soaking in the beauty of the surroundings.

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

Next on my list was Poço Azul Gerês, a spot I had been particularly excited about. Known for its vibrant turquoise waters, Poço Azul requires a bit of a hike to reach, which added to the adventure. The trail was moderately challenging, with a mix of forest paths and rocky terrain. As I hiked, I couldn't help but notice the incredible biodiversity of the park. The air was filled with the scent of pine and wildflowers, and I spotted several interesting bird species along the way. It was a good thing I had worn my hiking boots; the path could get a little slippery in places.


Explore the stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking trails of Poço Azul Gerês, a hiker's paradise in Portugal's national park.
Finally, after about an hour of hiking, I arrived at Poço Azul. And wow, was it worth it! The water was indeed a stunning turquoise color, crystal clear and incredibly inviting. Despite the slight chill in the air, I couldn't resist taking a dip. The water was refreshingly cold, perfect for a hot summer day. I swam for a while, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. Poço Azul felt like a hidden paradise, a perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I made sure to pack my eco-friendly toiletries, as I always do, to keep my impact on this precious environment to a minimum.

After my invigorating swim, I worked up quite an appetite. I hiked back to the car and drove to Essentia do Gerês for lunch. This restaurant came highly recommended, known for its contemporary take on regional flavors. I decided to try the “Bacalhau à Chef” (codfish), a local specialty, and it was absolutely delicious. The cod was perfectly cooked, and the flavors were rich and satisfying. I sat on the terrace, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains while savoring my meal. It was a truly delightful culinary experience.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine surrounded by stunning landscapes at Essentia do Gerês in Terras de Bouro.
With my belly full and my spirits high, I decided to dedicate the afternoon to a little bit of shopping. I was on the lookout for an eco-friendly store where I could pick up some sustainable souvenirs. I remembered reading about the Eco Store in Arcos de Valdevez, not too far from Gerês. I was eager to check it out. The Eco Store was a gem. It was filled with a wide range of sustainable products, from office supplies and cleaning products to creative crafting materials. I was impressed by the store's commitment to eco-friendly living. I ended up buying a few items, including a reusable water bottle and some organic soaps, perfect reminders of my sustainable adventure in Gerês.


Discover Eco Store in Arcos de Valdevez for sustainable office supplies, cleaning products, and creative crafting materials that support eco-friendly living.
As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Restaurante Cerdeira for dinner. Located in a campsite, it offered a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. I opted for the vitela estufada (stewed veal), which was hearty and flavorful, a perfect way to end a day of hiking and exploring. The restaurant was bustling with families and fellow travelers, all enjoying the simple pleasures of good food and good company.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine amidst the stunning landscapes of Gerês at Restaurante Cerdeira.
Before heading back to my campsite, I took a moment to reflect on the day. Gerês National Park had truly captured my heart. From the stunning views at Miradouro da Preguiça to the refreshing waters of Poço Azul and the eco-friendly finds at the Eco Store, every experience had been enriching and memorable. It reinforced my commitment to sustainable travel and reminded me of the importance of preserving our planet's natural beauty.

As I prepare for tomorrow, I'm excited about visiting Miradouro de Junceda and Pitões das Júnias cascata. Maybe I'll stop by Chamadouro Bar in the evening to celebrate another day of successful adventures. I am also glad that I remembered to pack my rain jacket, as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. I am slightly regretting forgetting my sunscreen and insect repellent, though, as I noticed a few mosquito bites during my hike today. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

Back at my campsite, under a canopy of stars, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible solo adventure. Gerês National Park had exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, sustainable living, and personal discovery. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Miradouro de Junceda and Pitões das Júnias cascata, further immersing myself in the park's natural splendor. I'm also looking forward to trying some local flavors at Restaurante Retiro do Gerês for breakfast, Encosta do Rio for lunch, and Bem Cozinhado for dinner. And perhaps, I'll unwind at Chamadouro Bar in the evening, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Until then, good night from Gerês!