In the far north of Portugal lies a place where nature still seems to speak the language of wind and stone. A land where mountains breathe, and every trail tells a story carved through millennia.

This is none other than the stunning Peneda-Gerês National Park : a true natural and cultural treasure.

Stretching across the districts of Braga, Viana do Castelo, and Vila Real, the park covers more than 70,000 hectares of valleys, plateaus, forests, and mountain villages. It’s a paradise for lovers of hiking, unspoiled landscapes, and authentic, slow-paced living.

A Unique Park in Europe

Created in 1971, Peneda-Gerês National Park protects an extraordinary ecosystem that blends granite peaks, oak forests, cascading waterfalls and high-altitude pastures.

It’s not unusual to spot sheep or goats wandering freely across mountain roads, patience is essential here, as time follows a gentler rhythm.

The park’s vast territory is structured around four main mountain ranges: Peneda, Soajo, Amarela, and Gerês. This geological variety creates a spectacular mosaic of landscapes; from deep valleys to arid ridges, glacial lakes, and lush subtropical forests.

Its biodiversity is remarkable: over 800 plant species and nearly 1,200 animal species thrive here. You might catch sight of Iberian deer, golden eagles soaring high above, or (if you’re lucky) the elusive Iberian wolf, a powerful symbol of northern Portugal’s wild nature.

What makes Peneda-Gerês truly special is the harmony between humans and nature. More than 70,000 people still live within the park’s boundaries, keeping alive rural traditions that date back centuries.

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Unmissable Trails to Explore

The park boasts dozens of signposted trails, ranging from easy strolls to multi-day treks. Here are some of the most captivating routes for exploring its many faces.

The Great Peneda-Gerês Route (GR50)

The GR50 is the park’s legendary long-distance hike (almost 190 km long) connecting its four mountain ranges through 19 stages.

It passes through forests, villages, valleys and high plateaus, offering a complete immersion into northern Portugal’s most beautiful wilderness.

The full route takes around ten days, but you can also walk selected sections if you prefer shorter adventures. Either way, it’s a journey that blends natural splendour and cultural heritage.

Castro Laboreiro, A Village at the Edge of the World

Perched at 1,000 metres above sea level, Castro Laboreiro is one of the park’s most iconic villages. Once isolated from the rest of the country, it’s now a living museum of granite architecture.

Explore its medieval castle, stone bridges, and traditional mills, each corner tells a story of resilience and timeless beauty.

From the village, trails climb towards the Serra da Peneda, revealing spectacular panoramas over the surrounding valleys.

Soajo and Its “Espigueiros”

In Soajo, time stands still. The village is famous for its “espigueiros”, a traditional stone granaries built on stilts to protect corn from rodents.

Set against the backdrop of the Lima valley, these structures glow golden at sunrise or sunset…an unforgettable sight !

Numerous paths meander through the nearby forests and meadows, perfect for a gentle walk combining nature and tradition.

The Peneda Waterfall

In the Serra da Peneda, near the sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Peneda, the majestic Peneda Waterfall tumbles 30 metres down a granite cliff, surrounded by mist and lush greenery.

The sound of water and the cool air create a near-mystical atmosphere; a perfect spot to rest after a climb.

Pitões das Júnias, Nature and Heritage

In the park’s northeast, Pitões das Júnias is a hidden gem. The village shelters a medieval monastery, dramatic waterfalls, and untouched landscapes.

Wooden walkways (“passadiços”) lead to the Pitões waterfall, making for a scenic and accessible walk through a setting that often feels shrouded in fog, like the edge of the world !

Pincães and Its Traditional Olive Press

For a more cultural hike, head to Pincães, where a restored community olive press (lagar) recalls the rural life of past generations.

The trail crosses forests, streams and peaceful meadows, a delightful way to blend culture and nature in one walk.

Sights and Curiosities You Shouldn’t Miss

The Espigueiros of Soajo and Lindoso

These granite corn granaries are a hallmark of northern Portugal’s landscape. Dozens of them stand proudly on a hilltop overlooking the valley…almost surreal in their quiet beauty.

The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Peneda

Clinging to the mountainside, this 18th-century baroque sanctuary is both a place of pilgrimage and a masterpiece of architecture.

Its monumental stairway, statues, and sweeping views over the valley make it well worth the climb.

Vilarinho das Furnas - The Submerged Village

Beneath the waters of the Vilarinho das Furnas reservoir lie the remains of a village abandoned in the 1970s.

When the water level drops in summer, its stone walls and ancient streets reappear; an eerie yet moving sight.

Traces of the Iberian Wolf

The Iberian wolf remains the park’s most powerful symbol. Some villages still preserve old “fojos do lobo”, ancient stone traps that recall the centuries-long coexistence between humans and wild nature.

Today, conservation initiatives aim to protect the species and raise awareness about the delicate balance of this ecosystem.

The Roman Road

As you hike through Peneda-Gerês, you’ll sometimes walk on authentic Roman roads, paved and bordered by old stone bridges.

These ancient routes once linked Portugal and Galicia, bearing witness to a long and fascinating history.

When to Visit Peneda-Gerês ?

The best time to explore the park is from May to October.

Spring brings lush greenery, powerful waterfalls, and ideal temperatures.

Summer offers long, warm days (perfect for hiking and cooling off in natural pools and rivers !)

Autumn is quieter, painting the forest in fiery shades of red and gold.

Winter, while misty and occasionally slippery, gives the park a mysterious and almost magical atmosphere.

What to Pack and Practical Tips ?

Before heading into the park, make sure you’re properly equipped with sturdy hiking boots with good grip ; layered clothing, as mountain weather changes quickly ; a light waterproof jacket or windbreaker ; walking poles (optional but helpful on steep terrain) ; plenty of water or a snack (or even a takeaway bifana sandwich) ; sunscreen ; a hat ; map or GPS (since mobile signal can be limited in remote area.

Always check the weather forecast before setting off ; in northern Portugal, sunshine can turn to fog in minutes.

Where to Stay in the Park ?

The park is full of rural lodgings, guesthouses, and eco-friendly retreats nestled in nature.

The villages of Soajo, Castro Laboreiro, and Pitões das Júnias offer the most authentic stays, often run by local families.

Here, you can taste regional specialities like smoked meats, honey, cheese and broa de milho (corn bread) while sharing moments with warm-hearted hosts.

If you prefer more comfort, head to the thermal town of Gerês, where you’ll find hotels, spas, and lakeside restaurants by the Caniçada Dam, perfect for relaxing after long hikes.

Respect Nature and Local Traditions

Peneda-Gerês is a protected area, so it’s essential to stay on marked trails, avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife.

Take your rubbish with you and leave no trace ; it’s a simple gesture that helps preserve this beautiful natural haven.

And above all, take your time. Hiking here is also about meeting people, and the Portuguese are famously warm and welcoming.

Say hello, share a few words, and embrace the park’s spirit of quiet connection.

Why Peneda-Gerês Stays in the Heart ?

Far from Portugal’s crowded beaches and bustling cities, this corner of the north offers everything a true nature escape should: breathtaking landscapes, deep authenticity, and an immediate connection with the land.

Walking through Gerês isn’t just a hike; it’s an experience of silence, beauty, effort and emotion.

Here, you don’t just visit a national park, you live it ! So lace up your boots, pack your curiosity and your sense of adventure. Peneda-Gerês National Park is waiting to make you fall in love with wild Portugal !