Grand Route of Gerês
Itinerary: Mata da Albergaria | Soajo | Lindoso | Castro Laboreiro | Peneda | Pitões das Júnias | Santiago dos Mixtos | Montalegre | Ponte da Misarela | Fafião
This itinerary through the Peneda-Gerês National Park invites you to discover the natural landscapes and cultural landmarks of this remarkable region. Starting with the Mata da Albergaria, the journey includes visits to the villages of Soajo and Lindoso, known for their iconic granaries, as well as the remote village of Castro Laboreiro. The route also takes you to Vilarinho da Furna, the Pedra Bela viewpoint, and the majestic Arado Waterfall. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Peneda and the Monastery of Santa Maria das Júnias add a spiritual touch to the experience, while the Fojos do Lobo in Fafião and the surprising Couto Misto unveil the unique traditions of the local culture. Get ready for a truly unforgettable experience!
NOT TO BE MISSED
Discover the Mata da Albergaria and the ancient Roman road of Geira, while soaking in the serenity of nature and the centuries-old oak trees.
Admire the breathtaking views from the Pedra Bela viewpoint and feel the refreshing spray of the Arado Waterfall, nestled in the heart of Gerês.
Visit the Monastery of Santa Maria das Júnias in Pitões, a hidden heritage treasure surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Explore the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Peneda and marvel at the charm of the villages of Soajo and Lindoso, with their iconic granaries.
Venture to the Misarela Bridge, the legendary “Devil’s Bridge,” and discover the traditions of the Fojo dos Lobos in the village of Fafião.
PROGRAMME:
Day 1: Mata da Albergaria
Morning: Departure from the starting locations. Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Mini-bus tour to explore the deeper parts of Gerês, crossing the Mata da Albergaria, a forest of ancient oaks with remnants of the old Roman road (Geira). Visit to the Vilarinho da Furna Dam and Portela do Homem. Stops at the Miradouro da Pedra Bela and Arado Waterfall.
Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 2: Soajo | Lindoso | Castro Laboreiro | Peneda
Morning: Full-day mini-bus tour of the most emblematic villages of the Peneda-Gerês Natural Park, with visits to Lindoso and Soajo, highlighting their traditional espigueiros and typical architecture. Regional lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Continue to Peneda, visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Peneda, and Castro Laboreiro, known for its mountainous landscape and medieval castle.
Evening: On the way back, stop at Los Baños, famous for its hot, sulfuric thermal waters.
Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 3: Pitões das Júnias | Santiago dos Mixtos | Montalegre
Morning: Visit to Pitões das Júnias, with a descent to the Monastery of Santa Maria das Júnias and discovery of the village. Lunch at a local restaurant.Afternoon: Visit to Couto Misto, a microstate that remained independent for 7 centuries. Continue to Montalegre, one of the most mystical towns in Portugal, known for its history and traditions linked to the celebration of Friday the 13th.
Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 4: Ponte da Misarela | Fafião
Morning: Walk to Ponte da Misarela, also known as the Devil's Bridge, located between the municipalities of Montalegre and Vieira do Minho. Continue to the village of Fafião, including a stop at the Lobo de Fafião and the Fojo dos Lobos. Lunch at a local restaurant.Afternoon: Return to the starting locations.