Unmissable trails in the Peneda-Gerês National Park
Located near the entrance to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, the Encostas da Torre accommodation is the ideal starting point for those wishing to explore nature trails surrounded by mountains, forests and wildlife. The proximity to well-signposted trails allows visitors to enjoy safe and enriching walks, whether as a family, as a couple or in adventurous mode.
1. The Águia do Sarilhão Trail
This approximately 8.4 km circular trail begins in the charming village of Germil, where time seems to have stood still. As the trail progresses, hikers are surrounded by an unspoilt natural landscape, full of centuries-old oak trees, green mosses and crystal-clear streams.
It is common to come across herds, old stone walls and signs of the traditional way of life of the mountain populations. One of the most memorable moments of the trail is the sighting of birds of prey, such as the round-winged eagle, which gives the trail its name.
Although it has some gentle slopes, it is an accessible trail for hikers with moderate stamina. Along the route, there are shaded areas that make the walk pleasant even on hotter days. The experience ends where it began — in Germil — with the feeling of having explored one of the most authentic corners of Gerês.
Tip: Ideal for those seeking tranquility and absolute silence, away from the crowds of the most touristy trails.
2. Mirantes Trail (PR6)
Se o que procura são vistas de cortar a respiração, o Trilho dos Miradouros é a escolha perfeita. Com cerca de 10,5 km de extensão, este trilho leva-o por uma sequência de pontos panorâmicos sobre o vale do Rio Gerês, culminando no icónico Miradouro da Pedra Bela, considerado um dos mais impressionantes da região.
O percurso atravessa zonas de vegetação densa, onde é possível observar espécies como giestas, urzes e azevinhos. Além disso, existem áreas preparadas para descanso, com bancos e pequenas clareiras perfeitas para um lanche ou para simplesmente apreciar a paisagem.
Along the way, the contrast between the native vegetation and the large granite massifs creates scenes worthy of a painting. It is an easy to follow trail, well signposted, ideal for hikers of all levels, including families with children.
Interesting fact: On clear days, it is possible to see the brightness of the reservoirs and the jagged curves of the mountain range all the way to the border with Spain.
3. Calcedónia City Trail
This trail is undoubtedly one of the most challenging in the region, but also one of the most rewarding. With a length of about 9.3 km, the Chalcedon Trail takes the hiker along a mountainous route to the ruins of an ancient protohistoric citadel, known as the City of Chalcedon, located at an altitude of about 1,000 meters.
Along the way, you cross rocky areas, curiously shaped granite blocks and points with wide views of the mountains. The vegetation is made up of shrubs that are resistant to cold and wind, such as gorse and heather, which indicates the progressive altitude of the walk.
Upon reaching the top, visitors are greeted with a mystical scene: dry stone walls that delimit what would have been an ancient settlement, possibly with defensive and ceremonial functions. The silence of the place, combined with the isolation, transports us to another time.
This trail is recommended for experienced hikers or adventurers looking for a challenge. The use of suitable footwear and walking sticks is strongly advised.
Suggestion: Take water and food with you as there are no supply points along the way.
Ready to explore these trails?
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Find the tranquility you are looking for on the slopes of Gerês, Portugal