Villages of Gerês

PROGRAMME:

Day 1: Vilarinho da Furna | Mata da Albergaria

Morning: Journey to Peneda-Gerês National Park. Lunch in a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Full afternoon minibus tour to explore the stunning Mata da Albergaria, one of the most impressive forests in the Peneda-Gerês National Park. This natural area is known for its ancient oak trees and unique biodiversity and is also an important historical site. The Roman Road (Geira) is well-preserved here, which connected Braga to Astorga in Spain, recalling the Roman presence in the region. This area of great natural and heritage beauty is perfect for walks and wildlife observation. Along the way, a stop will be made at the ruins of Vilarinho da Furna, a village submerged by the construction of a dam in the 1970s, but whose ruins are visible when the water level drops. This village is one of the most emblematic places in Gerês, with a history dating back hundreds of years and still remembered by the local community. The visit allows for a reflection on the life of ancient villages and the communal traditions that have been lost over time. On the way to Portela do Homem, a visit is made to the Arado Waterfall, one of the most beautiful and accessible waterfalls in Gerês. This natural setting offers a spectacle of crystal-clear water, ideal for photography and admiring the power of nature. Then, the Pedra Bela Viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the Gerês Valley and the Caniçada Reservoir, being one of the highest and most iconic points of the region.

Evening: Dinner and accommodation in a 3* hotel in Vila do Gerês.

Day 2: Soajo | Lindoso | Peneda | Castro Laboreiro

Morning: Full-day minibus tour to discover the most emblematic villages in the Peneda-Gerês Natural Park, accompanied by local guides who provide detailed information about the nature, culture, and customs of the region. The first stop is in Lindoso, known for its impressive collection of stone corn cribs, forming one of the most significant collections of this type of construction in the country. Lindoso is also a strategic point due to its medieval castle, with views over the Lima River, built to protect the border with Spain. Next, we visit the village of Soajo, famous for its communal corn cribs, built from granite and used for centuries to store corn. The arrangement of these cribs creates a unique image, and the guide explains the importance of this community system in the social organization of mountain villages. Lunch in a local restaurant.

Afternoon: The route continues to Peneda, where we visit the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Peneda, one of the most important places of worship in Northern Portugal. The sanctuary, situated on an imposing hillside, is a peaceful and spiritual place, with a monumental staircase and views over the mountains. It is a pilgrimage site dating back to the 18th century and holds legends and stories that the local guides share with visitors. The last stop of the day is the village of Castro Laboreiro, where visitors can see traditional stone houses and learn about local customs. The village is famous for its traditions, including the Castro Laboreiro Dog, a native breed adapted to the mountain climate. Here, the stories of resistance and the deep connection with the mountains are tangible, in a place where rural culture and mountain landscapes merge in a unique way.

Evening: Dinner and accommodation in a 3* hotel in Vila do Gerês.

Day 3: Vila do Gerês | São Bento da Porta Aberta | Albufeira da Caniçada

Morning: Visit to Vila do Gerês, where there will be free time to explore the Garden of the Thermal Baths and the village center. Known for its thermal waters, the village is a reference for relaxation and well-being. The gardens and thermal baths are ideal for a light walk and to enjoy the serenity of this place of rest and healing. Then, we visit the Sanctuary of São Bento da Porta Aberta, the second most visited sanctuary in Portugal, located near Gerês. This place of worship is dedicated to São Bento, the protector of pilgrims and shepherds, and its name “Porta Aberta” refers to the welcome it offered to travelers in the region. The simple architecture and tranquil atmosphere provide a deeply rooted experience of faith and devotion in local culture. After the sanctuary, the route ends with a boat tour on the Caniçada Reservoir, allowing you to observe the natural beauty of Gerês from the water. During the cruise, you can appreciate the imposing bridges of Rio Caldo, which connect Vieira do Minho to Gerês, as well as the slopes of the Serra da Cabreira and Gerês. The landscape of lush-covered mountains and unique geological formations provides a memorable farewell to this extraordinary region. Lunch in a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Return to the starting locations.