Peneda-Gerês National Park

Peneda-Gerês National Park is Portugal’s only national park and a must-visit destination for nature lovers. It is located in the northwest of the country and spans the districts of Viana do Castelo, Braga, and Vila Real.

Today, Peneda-Gerês continues to attract visitors seeking tranquility, adventure, and direct contact with nature. It is one of the richest and most diverse protected areas in the country.

Attractions and Activities in the Park

Peneda-Gerês offers a variety of experiences, from stunning hikes to refreshing swims in natural waterfalls. Here are the highlights to explore in the park:

• Waterfalls and Natural Pools: The Arado, Portela do Homem, and Tahiti waterfalls are some of the most famous in the park. These natural formations create crystal-clear pools ideal for swimming during the summer, although the water is usually cold.

• Hiking Trails: The park has an extensive network of marked trails, such as the Preguiça Trail, which passes through scenic spots, and the Peneda Trail, which leads to the iconic Sanctuary of Our Lady of Peneda, a religious pilgrimage site surrounded by mountains.

• Diverse Flora and Fauna: The park is home to endangered species, including the Iberian wolf and the Garrano, a wild horse native to the region. The vegetation is equally rich, with forests of oak, pine, and strawberry trees that create stunning landscapes throughout the year.

• Traditional Villages: Visit villages like Lindoso, Soajo, and Castro Laboreiro, where you can see ancient granaries, stone houses, and experience the cultural authenticity and traditional lifestyles of the region.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Park

To make the most of your visit to Peneda-Gerês, it’s important to plan ahead, especially concerning weather conditions and the park’s environmental guidelines:

1. Choose Appropriate Clothing and Gear: The mountainous region has unpredictable weather, so it’s essential to bring suitable clothing for sudden temperature changes, including waterproof jackets and comfortable hiking shoes.
2. Follow Park Rules: As a protected area, the park has strict environmental preservation rules. Camping is only allowed in designated areas, and collecting plants or disturbing the local wildlife is prohibited. Additionally, always stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and ensure your safety.
3. Essential Equipment: Bring an offline navigation app, as not all areas have network coverage. Snacks, water, and a flashlight are also vital for those planning longer hikes.
4. Conserve the Environment: When visiting natural areas like Peneda-Gerês, it’s essential to follow the “leave only footprints” principle. Make sure to collect any trash you generate and avoid disturbing the animals’ natural habitat.

Accommodation and Accessibility

The park offers various accommodation options, including rural guesthouses, small hotels, and camping areas. For those who prefer a closer-to-nature experience, organized campsites and picnic areas are available.

Peneda-Gerês is mainly accessible by car, with secondary roads connecting different areas of the park. The cities of Braga, Ponte da Barca, and Arcos de Valdevez serve as good support bases. Using a GPS is recommended for exploring the region.

Peneda-Gerês National Park is a destination that enchants and inspires. IIts preservation is a shared responsibility of all visitors. Those who come here have the privilege of exploring one of Portugal’s richest and most authentic natural areas. Peneda-Gerês offers landscapes that range from mountains and valleys to rivers and waterfalls. It is truly a paradise for nature and adventure enthusiasts.