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Hiking in Gerês National Park

Highlights

Visit traditional villages where ancient community customs are still alive today
Stay in a comfortably converted old mill on the bank of the Lima River
Enjoy Gerês’ most iconic viewpoints while you rest your feet
Get to know the agricultural methods of local people as well as the geological past of this region

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What you'll do

Overview

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Overview

Surround yourself with nature and Portuguese culture on this walking holiday in Gerês National Park.

If you’re a nature lover then you’ll love this 5-day tour exploring Gerês National Park in the northern region of Portugal. During your stay you will have the opportunity to not only enjoy the fauna and flora of this forested area, but discover its natural sculptured geological formations and water paths. An area of 70,000 hectares and recently declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2009, this beautiful National Park full of forested mountains, rivers, streams and waterfalls is an absolute must-see.

Discover its hidden gems and picturesque locations whilst exploring this area on foot, with hikes that can be adapted to suit your preferred level. You’ll also have time to visit the traditional villages here, renowned for their ancient monasteries, medieval castles and stone granaries. Old community customs are very much kept alive here, and your local guide will ensure you walk away with a real insight.

During your stay, you’ll be staying in an exclusive cosy countryside house with all the privacy, comfort and authenticity you need to make this a memorable stay. Think fireplace in winter and BBQs in the garden come summer. We’re certain you’ll feel at home in this cosy old mill located on the bank of the Lima River. It’s located in a quiet spot just 6km from the centre of Arcos de Valdevez, a nice little village next to Gerês National Park.

We recommend hiring a car to fully explore this spectacular area. With so many activities on offer here, you might want to supplement your walks with some kayaking or cycling during your free time.

What's included

Included

4 nights in comfortable countryside house
All breakfasts

Local guide for your hikes

Your local host

Pedro Urgel

Born and raised in the delightful city of Porto, apart from a two year stint living in Scotland in my younger days, I have lived in Portugal all my life. When I was around 35, myself and a couple of my travelling friends (one of which is my brother), decided to set up our company. We set out scouting Portugal, visiting the places no one visits, meeting people, exploring landscapes discovering all these authentic towns. We know the country like the back of our hands, so when you go on one of our experiences you get an experts insight and learn so much more than you would visiting alone.

Born and raised in the delightful city of Porto, apart from a two year stint living in Scotland in my younger days, I have lived in Portugal all my life. When I was around 35, myself and a couple of my travelling friends (one of which is my brother), decided to set up our company. We set out scouting Portugal, visiting the places no one visits, meeting people, exploring landscapes discovering all these authentic towns. We know the country like the back of our hands, so when you go on one of our experiences you get an experts insight and learn so much more than you would visiting alone.

Pedro Urgel image

Sustainability Efforts

What Sustainability Efforts are we Taking?

At Not in the Guidebooks we’re committed to empowering the local communities in Costa Rica. We work closely with the local people and their businesses to make sure that they receive a fair percentage of the money you spend on your holiday there. By partnering with local guides and suppliers, we’re able to create meaningful, authentic experiences that directly benefit the people who call this incredible country home.

Location

Located in northern Portugal near the Spanish border, Peneda-Gerês National Park is home to forested rugged hills and traditional villages. You’ll not only get a good dose of fresh air and nature, but also a slice of Portuguese culture and tradition. Rivers and streams flow through the mountain ranges, with waterfalls and reservoirs adding to the breathtaking landscape. The area is also home to deer, Iberian wolves, golden eagles and small wild horses that roam freely.

Nearest airport: Porto Airport (approx. 1 hr drive to the park). Transfers can be arranged (at an extra cost) with the host directly and the driver will meet you at the airport.

By car: if hiring a car, a member of the local team will meet you and assist with the rental car pick-up at the airport. The full address and directions to your acommodation will be given to you upon booking.

By train: to Braga (the railway station is 500m from the National Park headquarters)

FAQs

The converted old mill comes with 2 x bedrooms with double beds, and a sofa bed in each of these bedrooms which can accommodate 1 extra person. We can opt for a different house depending on the total number of guests, their ages and preferences.

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