In the East, the mountains of Peneda-Gerês National Park form the territory of the Iberian wolf. The landscape is dotted with small villages that seem to take you back in time. The granite granaries and ancient wolf traps have resisted all kinds of weather for centuries already.
Away from the crowds in Portugal
Wed, 06/06/2018 - 10:00 -
When everyone goes South, it is time to go North! From the mountains to the ocean there is an incredible culture and landscape, waiting to be discovered in Northern Portugal. Stories about old smuggling routes, lakes, castles, millenary oak tree forests and old monasteries are all part of a land full of traditions and breath-taking sceneries.
This is the most authentic part of Portugal, where the Portuguese themselves like to spent their holidays while crowds of tourists visit Lisbon and the Southern beaches. So, let’s follow the locals!
The Northeast - Peneda-Gerês NP
The Northeast - Peneda-Gerês NP
Nature and culture go hand in hand here. Some locals may still be surprised to see a tourist, which is not a Portuguese national. Cows, sheep, goats and wild Garrano horses own the place and they will take their right of way when crossing the road, not caring if they come from your right or left, from above or below.
Peneda-Gerês National Park lays on the border with Spain. During a hike you can easily cross the border several times as many trails curl in and out the country. From the top of the mountains a magnificent view of both countries, and sometimes even their shared water supplies, unfolds itself.
This a perfect region for nature lovers and for travellers who are interested in history and culture. There are 4 information centres at the edges of the park where you can find out more about must-see sights, fauna and flora. No matter if you like to hike, take a picknick, and maybe go for a swim, ride a horse or jump in the clear rivers on a canyoning tour, Peneda-Gerês will not disappoint you.
From East to West
From East to West
Along riverside villages, small ancient towns and manor houses you can bike, kayak or drive to the Atlantic Ocean, where sandy, pristine beaches provide an amazing coastline. Depending on where you are in the National Park, the distance to the ocean may be less than 60 kilometers. No matter if you drive a car or take a bike, do take into account that you will want to make some stops on the way.
Another option is to make a small detour by car to famous cultural cities, such as Braga and Guimarães, which are definitely worth a visit. Aside from impressive cathedrals, churches, musea, castles and squares, amazing restaurants and local bars serve delicious typical dishes, pastries and wine. This region is surrounded by the famous Port wine area and the less famous but very fresh Vinho Verde.
My favourite, local restaurant is situated in Ponte da Barca, near Peneda-Gerês NP. The decoration is wonderfully cosy and authentic. It is actually more like a bar where you can order some food as well and it is not bigger than a small living room. Choosing what to eat, means pointing your finger on a menu that is completely in Portuguese. The personnel does not speak English. So, it can be a challenge but it does not really matter what you order because all is delicious and incredibly cheap!
The Northwest - Atlantic Ocean
The Northwest - Atlantic Ocean
Beaches as far as you can see await you at the coast. The area is known for surfing, kite-surfing and windsurfing. If you like more quiet activities you can try stand-up paddle in the nearby river, or why not rent a bodyboard?
Those who love to bike or hike can discover the flat coastal trails, following a part of the St. James route to Santiago do Compostela in Spain, and discovering small fishing villages along the way. If you like to challenge yourself a bit more, you can bike through the green hills that surround the coastline.
Take a break and just relax on the beach, go for a swim, enjoy lunch at one of the wooden beach bars or pay a visit to the cosy beach town of Viana do Castelo.
Beste time to travel is from April until October. In July and especially in August the coast does get crowded and it can transform into a very touristic place as the locals also have their holidays then. The fresh Vinho verde and amazing Port wine are present all year around however. This region is also easy to combine with a citytrip to the hilly city of Porto.
Get inspired by the sample itineraries on our website and find out more about this beautiful region. Please contact hello@yugentours.com for any questions you may have. We will be more than happy to assist in creating your customized itinerary.
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