Discover Portugal through the enchanting landscapes of Peneda-Gerês National Park and the dynamic Porto region.
This trip combines picturesque hikes in preserved natural environments, cultural visits to historic cities, and unique gastronomic experiences. Each day, immerse yourself in outdoor adventures with varied trails suitable for different walking levels, explore Porto's architectural wonders, and savor the region's renowned wines. Accompanied by experienced guides, experience a total immersion in Portuguese nature
and culture.
SUD EVASION ADVANTAGES
- ● Douro River cruise
● Porto visit with wine tastings at a cellar
● Welcome aperitif - ● 3 guides from 35 participants!
Day 1 - DEPARTURE TO PORTO
Meeting at the airport according to flight schedules. Check-in procedures and flight to Porto. Upon your
arrival, welcome by our local assistant. Transfer to the 4* hotel. Check-in to rooms, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 2 - HIKE IN SISTELO
Breakfast, then departure for the hike.
For the easy level, the hike follows the Vez River between Vilela and Sistelo, offering breathtaking natural landscapes. The trail runs alongside lush forests, crosses stone bridges, and allows for observation of local wildlife. Accessible and well-maintained, it is suitable for all levels. The arrival in Sistelo, nicknamed the "Little Tibet of Portugal," is marked by its famous terraced agricultural fields, a unique panorama. A perfect hike for nature and heritage lovers.
For the second group, the 9 km circular trail starts from the center of Sistelo and allows for the discovery of the 'brandas,' traditional high pastures used by shepherds. The hike follows ancient stone paths, crosses lush forests, and offers spectacular panoramic views of Sistelo's iconic agricultural terraces. Along the way, you will pass through isolated hamlets and enjoy breathtaking viewpoints over the valley. Lasting approximately 5 hours, this route combines history, nature, and rural traditions, making this hike an immersive experience in the heart of Peneda-Gerês National Park.
Packed lunch during the day. Return to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3 - HIKE IN PONTE DA BARCA AND PONTE DE LIMA
Breakfast, then departure for the hike.
For the easy level, the 'Trilho dos Caminhos do Pão e da Fé' (Path of Bread and Faith) takes us to discover historical 'calçadas' (cobblestone paths)
where, over the centuries, rhythms of life and religious festivities have intertwined. This route symbolizes the
syncretism between spirituality and the struggle for survival, particularly through the culture of bread, an essential food and source of life for local communities. As we walk, we follow the cycle of bread, passed down from generation to generation and accompanying the cycle of life. This path reflects the importance of bread in this region, evident in the diverse landscapes and ecosystems that comprise it. The 'calçadas' wind through rich agricultural landscapes, where corn is cultivated and animals are raised, thus contributing to the diversity of local culture.
For the second group, Stage 5 of the GR50 takes us through the southern slopes of the Serra do Soajo, with landscapes marked by cattle farming, but also by the influence of the Lima River, which separates the region from the Serra Amarela. After leaving the Sanctuary of Senhor da Paz, we pass by the ruins of Branda de Bordença, an ancient cultivated 'branda' (high pasture). A detour leads us to the old Murço Forest Ranger's House. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Lima River valley, the Serra Amarela, and some peaks of Peneda-Gerês National Park. Further on, we pass near Branda da Portelinha, with traces of ancient agricultural life, and Branda das Ínsuas, a testament to the hard life of herders. We then ascend to Portela de Entre Outeiros, where the ruins of the Forest Ranger's House are located. The stage ends at the PNPG Gate of Mezio, offering various activities and archaeological monuments to discover.
Packed lunch during the day. Return to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4 - PORTO SIGHTSEEING DAY
Breakfast. Departure towards Porto. The journey offers magnificent panoramic views of the mountains and rivers, immersing you in the natural beauty of the region before arriving in the lively city of Porto. Upon arrival in Porto, the first part of the program is a guided tour of the famous Port wine cellars located on the banks of the Douro River. You will discover the Port wine production process and have the opportunity to taste several types of wines, while learning the secrets of its making. A delightful and informative experience that will allow you to become familiar with one of the country's most iconic products. Next, a Six Bridges cruise will allow you to discover Porto from a different perspective. On board the boat, you will enjoy splendid views of the city and its famous bridges, while cruising on the Douro. This peaceful moment on the water will offer you breathtaking perspectives of the city's monuments and architecture. After the cruise, head to a typical restaurant for a delicious lunch featuring 'bacalhau' (codfish), a traditional Portuguese dish.
The afternoon will be dedicated to a walking tour of Porto's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Accompanied by a local guide, you will wander through the city's picturesque streets, discovering iconic places such as Lello Bookstore, the Clérigos Tower, the Church of Saint Francis, and the Ribeira district. You will learn more about Porto's fascinating history through its monuments and unique atmosphere. After this busy day, you will proceed to check-in at the hotel, where you can relax and enjoy the amenities of your accommodation. This stage will conclude a memorable day spent discovering Porto in all its aspects. At the end of the day, departure for the new hotel. Check-in. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5 - HIKE IN SETE LAGOAS
Breakfast, then departure for the hike.
For the easy level, the 'Trilho da Águia e do Sarilhão' (Eagle and Sarilhão Trail) is a path that guides you through a wide valley where the Rodas Stream winds between the Museum Center and the left bank of the Vilarinho da Furna reservoir. It allows
for the discovery of traditional rural villages, with 'espigueiros' (granaries) and typical houses featuring summit crosses and wooden balconies opening onto courtyards. The route also passes near major historical sites, such as the Roman road Via Nova XVIII (Geira), specifically milestones XXVII, XXVIII, and XXIX. Near milestone XXIX, one finds the remains of the Campo do Gerês trench and the Casa das Peças, defensive structures used to protect the Portuguese border against invasions. In addition to its historical riches, the trail leads us to places of natural interest, such as Fraga do Sarilhão, Mata da Albergaria (Biosphere Reserve), and the ancient submerged village of Vilarinho da Furna.
For the second group, the 12th stage of the GR50 connects Campo do Gerês to Vila do Gerês, crossing the Serra do
Gerês and offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. The route begins near the 'miliário' (milestone) and
follows a secondary path along a stream. After crossing the Lapa Stream, it leads towards Junceda, following the Coval valley. The trail offers impressive panoramic views, particularly of Pé de Cabril, Serra da Cabreira, and the Caniçada Dam. A descent leads to Miradouro da Boneca, then to Miradouro da Fraga Negra, before continuing towards Vila do Gerês along an asphalt road. This stage allows for the discovery of the natural beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park and important historical sites.
Packed lunch during the hike. Return to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 6 - HIKE ON THE PORTELA DA FAIRRA TRAIL
Breakfast, then departure for the hike.
For the easy level, the 'Trilho dos Currais' (Corrals Trail) is a 10.2 km circular trail located in Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal. It is generally considered moderate, with an average duration of 4 hours and 7 minutes to complete. This route crosses three ancient communal enclosures called "currais": Curral da Espinheira, Curral da Carvalha das Éguas, and Curral da Lomba do Vidoeiro. These structures bear witness to local pastoral traditions, where herders led their cattle to mountain pastures during the summer months. The trail starts near the Vidoeiro Environmental Education Center, approximately 1 km from Caldas do Gerês. It follows historical paths used by shepherds to reach high mountain pastures, offering panoramic views of the Gerês River valley and the Serra do Gerês.
For the second group, the 'Trilho do Sobreiral da Ermida' (Ermida Cork Oak Grove Trail) is a 13 km circular trail located in Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal. Classified as moderate, it takes approximately 5 hours to complete. The route begins at Miradouro da Ermida, a mountain village offering panoramic views of the Gerês massifs. It crosses the Arado Bridge, built in 1936, providing access to the mountain summit near the waterfall of the same name. The trail passes through three traditional enclosures used for cattle grazing:
Malhadoura, Portos, and Cortes. It owes its name to the 200-hectare cork oak grove that stands out in the mountainous landscape, located on a south-facing slope, overlooking the Arado and Fafião rivers, between 290 and 760 meters of altitude.
Day 7 - RETURN
Departure from the hotel and transfer to Porto airport according to flight schedules. Assistance with check-in procedures and return flight.
Our program includes
Our program does not include