Getting There
Starting Point: Serra do Gerês, Peneda-Gerês National Park
Access: From Braga, take the N103 north towards Caldas do Gerês. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes through winding mountain roads. From the Alto Minho, access via Ponte da Barca or Arcos de Valdevez heading east into the park.
Parking: Free parking available at the main trailheads and near the thermal baths in Caldas do Gerês.
Route & Itinerary
Two full days exploring Portugal’s only national park — from mountain trail runs and thermal baths to waterfall hikes and riverside picnics. This itinerary covers the best of Peneda-Gerês at a relaxed but rewarding pace.
Day 1 — Morning Trail Run at Serra do Gerês
Start your first day with a morning trail run through the Serra do Gerês. The mountain trails wind through ancient oak forests, past granite boulders, and along ridgelines with sweeping views over the park. Keep an eye out for garrano horses — the wild ponies that roam freely across the highlands.
Day 1 — Lunch at a Local Tasca
Refuel at a traditional tasca in one of the villages near the park. Expect hearty mountain food — cozido à barrosã, cabrito assado, or a simple but perfect plate of rojões with batatas a murro. The portions are generous and the prices are kind.
Day 1 — Afternoon at the Thermal Baths
Spend the afternoon soaking in the thermal baths at Caldas do Gerês. The hot springs have been used since Roman times, and the warm mineral-rich waters are the perfect recovery after a morning on the trails. Let the tension melt away as the mountain air cools around you.
Day 2 — Waterfall Hike at Cascata do Tahiti
On day two, hike to Cascata do Tahiti — one of the park’s most beautiful waterfalls. The trail follows a river valley through dense forest, and the waterfall itself plunges into a crystal-clear natural pool. In summer, the brave take a dip in the icy water.
Day 2 — Picnic by the River
Find a quiet spot along one of the park’s rivers for a leisurely picnic. Pack local cheese, presunto, fresh bread from the morning market, and a bottle of vinho verde. The sound of the river and the dappled light through the trees make this a moment to savour.
Day 2 — Sunset from the Miradouro
End your two days with sunset from one of the park’s miradouros (viewpoints). Watch the light shift across the mountains as the valleys below fill with shadow. It’s the kind of view that reminds you why you came to Northern Portugal in the first place.
Highlights
- Wild garrano horses roaming the mountain highlands
- Ancient Roman thermal baths at Caldas do Gerês
- Cascata do Tahiti — a stunning waterfall with natural swimming pool
- Dense oak forests and granite boulder landscapes
- Traditional mountain cuisine at local tascas
- Sunset views from panoramic miradouros
Photos
Tips
- Bring layers. Mountain weather in Gerês changes fast — sunshine can turn to mist and rain within minutes, even in summer.
- Proper trail shoes are essential. The granite paths can be slippery, especially near rivers and waterfalls. Good grip makes all the difference.
- Start early in summer. The trails get busy and the heat can be intense by midday. An early start means cooler temperatures and fewer people.
- Carry plenty of water. While there are rivers and streams, services are limited once you’re on the trails. We recommend at least 2 litres per person per day.