Gerês is more than a destination in northern Portugal; it’s a natural wonder that touches the soul. As Portugal’s only National Park, it offers a unique blend of wild beauty and deep-rooted tradition.
Here, every path leads to discovery. Lush forests, waterfalls, mountain trails, and ancient villages shape an untouched and welcoming landscape. Along the way, don’t be surprised if your journey pauses. Garrano horses, goats, cows, and deer often cross your path, reminding you that nature sets the rhythm in this town.
Moreover, the park’s charm lies in its contrasts. Remote wilderness meets human history, and local life still follows the land’s natural pulse. Whether hiking, taking a scenic drive, or simply breathing in the mountain air, this town offers peace that stays with you.
There are several places that you should visit. Get to know some of them:
From here you can get a wide view of the magnificent Gerês Valley and Caniçada Dam landscape.
In Gerês you can find wonderful waterfalls in several places.
Nestled between the mountains and the forest, this sanctuary is admired for its beauty and mysticism.
This shrine goes back to the 17th century and it’s a place of great devotion, welcoming many pilgrims and believers.
A village in the Park admired for its 13th century castle.
An isolated village whose main attraction is the ‘espigueiros’, an interesting construction where the corn was kept.
There are plenty of activities to do while in this town. See what you can do here:
Gerês’ natural landscape is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious picnic.
During the warmer months you can refresh yourself in the many waterfalls in Gerês.
In Gerês you can find admirable species that live freely and you can stumble upon the garrano horse, goats and cows while exploring the area.
Adventure sports are very popular in Gerês. You can go on horseback rides, canoeing, hiking and others.
A Roman Road. One of the most important in the Iberian Peninsula that linked the current cities of Braga and Astorga.
During drought periods or during the dam cleaning you can see the ruins of this village submerse in 1971.
Make sure to try the delicious food. Check what you should taste:
A kid dish cooked in the Castro Laboreiro style, a very famous and important place in Gerês.
This corn bread is typical and very popular in this region.
A dessert prepared during festive occasions that uses tripe to cook the dish.
A traditional candy from Arcos de Valdevez whose recipe was passed from generation to generation.
Gerês is one of several unbelievably beautiful places in the Northern Portugal. Discover other places you should visit in this region: