We use cookies to improve your experience and measure marketing performance. You can accept or reject marketing cookies at any time.
Eleven of our favourite walks, swimming pools and waterfalls in Peneda-Gerês National Park, sorted by how long it takes to drive there from the villas. Drive times are Google Maps' fastest car route with normal traffic – mountain roads are narrow and winding, so allow a few extra minutes.
Numbered markers match the list below. Click a marker for the drive time and a directions link, or click a card to open its marker.
Closest to the villas first.
21 min drive · 12.2 km
To Vilar da Veiga church, the trail start. For directions we use “Igreja Paroquial de Vilar da Veiga”.
A shady levada walk that ends at a lovely waterfall with small pools. Park by the church in Vilar da Veiga; there’s no parking at the trailhead.
About 2.5–3 km each way, mostly flat along an old water channel, then a short rocky bit.
21 min drive · 15.5 km
Via N103.
An old stone bridge over the gorge with a waterfall beside it. Easy and very pretty, not suitable for strollers.
Short uphill walk from the car.
23 min drive · 12.5 km
Via EN304.
A loop on both sides of the São Bento valley with big views over the mountains and reservoir. Some junctions are poorly marked, so follow the route on your phone.
About 4 hours for the full loop with steep climbs; can be split into two 2-hour loops.
27 min drive · 13.9 km
Via N103.
A chain of beautiful clear pools, one of Gerês’ most famous spots. Very busy in summer and the rocks are dangerous when wet; better for confident adults than small children.
Short, but a steep scramble over slippery rock.
30 min drive · 15.2 km
Via N308.
A tall, unusual waterfall with a natural pool at the bottom; quieter than the big-name falls.
About 20–30 minutes each way, steep and unsigned in places.
34 min drive · 20.4 km
Via EN304.
Follows part of the old Roman road through small villages with granite espigueiros, ending at the Vilarinho da Furna reservoir where you can swim.
Easygoing, well-marked (red and yellow stripes), sun and shade.
40 min drive · 29.1 km
Via N103 and EM526.
A gentle river walk past old watermills, little cascades and two Roman bridges, ending near the village of Agra with stone picnic tables.
About 3 km along the river; start at the small church car park in Lamedo, arrive early.
42 min drive · 17.4 km
Via N103 (to the nearest road).
The reward is a deep blue mountain pool you can swim in. Not for small children or hot afternoons; bring plenty of water.
About 4.5 km each way, rough and steep at the start; allow 2.5–3 hours return.
44 min drive · 27.8 km
Via EN304 and N307.
A peaceful riverside walk close to the water with places to swim; free parking at the start. Check all sections are open after heavy rain.
About 3.5 km each way, almost all flat wooden boardwalk.
45 min drive · 20.6 km
One of the most-loved waterfalls in the park, with a viewpoint trail near the car park. Arrive before 9am in summer for parking and quiet.
5–10 minutes from the road to the viewing platform; a rougher path leads to the pools.
50 min drive · 27.4 km
Via N308-1.
Famous waterfalls and swimming pools by the Spanish border, often with wild garrano horses nearby. In summer parking is about 650 m away.
A short walk down from the road; more falls within about 2 km along the river.
Happy walking! – The Gerês Paradise team
