Portugal’s only National Park
Gerês, Wildlife Beauty
An hour and half from Porto, is the only Portuguese National Park called Gerês located in between Upper Minho and Trás-os-Montes. It’s one of the greatest natural attractions in Portugal with boulder-strewn peaks, steep valleys, lush forest of oak and pine, not to mention, crystal clear rivers, streams, and waterfalls.
This scenic park also shelters more than 100 granite villages that are well-preserved since Portugal’s creation in the 12th century. In more secluded locations within the park, you can find wildlife like wolves, boars, badgers, otters, dears, and wild horses. Apart from the wild animals, the most commonly seen are cows with long horns, goats, native sheep and “castro laboreiro” – shepard dog.
Hotels
The hotels at National Park of Gerês are small 3-star properties or hostels, therefore we suggest below two reliacs of the region.
Vidago Palace: The splendid Vidago Palace is a 5-star hotel, housed in a century-old palace in the heart of the Vidago Thermal Park, surrounded by mountains and forest. Initially known for its thermal baths, due to the excellence of its waters, it is now a luxury hotel that offers guests excellent services, along with 64 rooms and 3 grand suites.
Vila Galé Collection Braga: This incredible 4-star hotel was born from the rehabilitation of the former São Marcos hospital, dating from 1508. Respecting the building’s historical and architectural side, this hotel maintained the existing structure and recovered elements such as the original vaulted ceilings. Moreover, it features 124 modern rooms, 2 restaurants, 2 bars, wellness center and 8 meeting rooms.
Activities
Gerês has an incredible blend between outdoor life and historical villages, it’s almost like they complement each other. If you’re willing to explore your adventurous side, start by the river with a canyoning experience or an incredible BTT tour whilst admiring the parks wildlife. More relaxed activities include SUP in the river or hiking trails along the mountains.
Restaurants
O Abocanhado: situated in the North of Portugal, in the village of Brufe, about 12 km from Terras de Bouro, the restaurant O Abocanhado is set at an altitude of approximately 800 m. Apart from stunning setting, the interior has a modern yet cozy décor that blends in perfectly with local dishes.
Miradouro do Castelo: Miradouro do Castelo Restaurant is the oldest in the town of Castro Laboreiro, located in Serra da Peneda, in the middle of the Peneda-Gerês National Park. Opened for 30 years by former Andorran immigrants, during the pandemic the restaurants was refurbished, main objective was to blend the staggering view with the room. The menu was untouch, it still showcases the region’s delights.