Peneda-Gerês: walking the pilgrimage path

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Peneda-Gerês National Park
Duration:
3 days / 2 nights (flexible)
Price:
From £ 299.- per person

Time to slow the pace and experience another side of Portugal. Explore the undiscovered north on foot on this bite-sized trip in the Penede-Gerês National Park. You will follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and share the path with sheep herders as you stroll through the timeless countryside.

Day 1 – Arrival in Peneda-Gerês

After a journey of about two hours from Porto or the Douro Valley, you will reach Peneda-Gerês – Portugal’s only national park. This picturesque region is off the main tourist trail, and dotted with Roman bridges, hidden hamlets and rugged rock formations. You will stay in a charming, but simple hotel near the village of Castro Laboreiro, and your days will be spent exploring the timeless countryside on foot.

Day 2 – The pilgrimage path to Peneda

Your walk today will follow the pilgrimage path to the Peneda Monastery. It’s a self-guided walk and a picnic lunch will be provided so you can stop for lunch where and when you please. The route and interesting places to visit along the way can be found in a comprehensive app from our partner. This way you won’t get lost and you will learn everything about the region at the same time. The route passes Roman bridges, green valleys and rock formations. Don’t be surprised to share the path with sheep herders! After 15km you will arrive at the monastery of Peneda, where according to legend Mary appeared before the eyes of a young shepherdess. The church is beautifully surrounded by high peaks. From Peneda you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Day 3 – Circular walk & depart

The second walking day is a circular walk of 13 km, and slightly steeper than day one. Again, a picnic lunch will be provided. Along the way you walk past granite rock formations and through the shadows of ancient forests to the top of the plateau where you can enjoy panoramic views. The path leads back to your hotel where you prepare to leave for your next destination.