Porto: swimming, hiking, picnic in Gerês National Park

Imagine spending a day surrounded by Portugal’s most stunning landscapes, hiking through lush mountain scenery, taking a dip in crystal-clear lagoons, and savoring homemade Portuguese foods—all in a small-group setting. That’s exactly what this tour offers, and it’s received rave reviews for its balance of adventure, relaxation, and culture.

We love how the experience combines active outdoor fun with culinary delights—a real taste of Portugal’s natural beauty and local traditions. The small group size ensures a personal vibe and plenty of time for photos and questions. One thing to keep in mind: the tour involves some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature, outdoor activities, and authentic local experiences. If you’re looking for a well-organized day that hits all the right notes—beautiful scenery, good value, and expert guides—then this is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery with mountain landscapes and crystal lagoons
• Balanced itinerary of hiking, swimming, and relaxing
• Authentic Portuguese picnic with homemade food and local flavors
• Small, intimate groups limited to 8 participants for a personal experience
• Expert guides who share insights about Portugal’s natural and cultural heritage
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and scenic beauty

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This guided tour, offered by Grapes journeys, promises a full day of adventure and relaxation in Portugal’s premier national park, Gerês. Starting from a central location in Porto, you’ll hop into a cozy mini-van with a small group of fellow travelers—this keeps things intimate and allows for more personalized attention from your guide.

The experience costs $85 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the activities included: transport, breakfast, a traditional picnic, and a guided hike. The tour lasts roughly 9 hours, making it a full-day escape into nature, perfect for those who want to get away from the city buzz and see Portugal’s wild side.

What You’ll Love

Two standout features stand out. First, the hiking to the 7 lagoons and waterfalls—short 4 km walks that uncover some of the park’s most enchanting natural pools. We loved the way the guide pointed out hidden spots, perfect for photos or just taking a quiet moment to soak in the scenery.

Second, the authentic Portuguese picnic — a generous spread of homemade finger foods, bread, Portuguese salad, fruit, and dessert, complemented by water and wine if you prefer. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the food, noting it’s homemade, plentiful, and of high quality.

A Possible Drawback

The main consideration is the walking involved—short but sometimes uneven trails might be tiring for some travelers, especially those with mobility issues. Also, the focus on outdoor activities means that weather can influence your experience, so a sunny day enhances the beauty and swimming conditions.

Who’s This Perfect For?

This tour suits active travelers who want a taste of Portugal’s natural landscapes, love outdoor adventures, and appreciate local cuisine. It’s also ideal for small groups seeking a personalized, unhurried experience. If you prefer long hikes or extensive sightseeing, you might find this tour’s pace just right. If you’re more of a city explorer, it still offers an excellent break into the country’s wild beauty.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Santa Catarina Street (R. de Santa Catarina 447)

You’ll meet your guide here, at the front of Gruta Restaurant. From this point, the adventure begins with a comfortable van ride into the park, which takes about two hours. During the drive, your guide will likely share insights about the landscape, flora, and fauna, along with some local history or tips.

The First Hike and Lagoon Visit

Once inside Gerês National Park, your group will set off on a short, manageable hike—around 4 km each way. Along the way, you’ll pass through breathtaking mountain vistas and lush greenery, gradually revealing the famous 7 lagoons and waterfalls. Guests have raved about the scenery, with comments like “the area is beautiful and definitely worth a visit,” and “scenery is good,” emphasizing how striking the landscape is.

Swimming and Relaxing in Lagoons

The highlight for many is the opportunity to swim in the lagoons, which are described by visitors as crystal-clear and inviting. This wild swimming is pure fun and a chance to cool off after the hike. Many reviews mention the joy of discovering these natural pools, with one guest saying, “swimming on the 7 lagoons.”

Lunch in the Park

After some time exploring and swimming, you’ll enjoy a homemade Portuguese lunch. The menu typically includes Portuguese salad, bread, finger foods, and dessert, with reviews praising the quality and homemade feel. Some mention that vegetarian options are available, and there’s even a chance to enjoy some local wine. As one guest put it, “the food provided was of amazing quality…plenty to eat,” which is a nice touch for a day trip.

More Exploring and Hiking

Post-lunch, you’ll get a second chance to hike and explore the park’s hidden gems. The guide’s knowledge and storytelling add depth to the experience, making each stop memorable. Expect a relaxed pace, plenty of time to take photos, and opportunities to enjoy the enchanting scenery.

Return Journey

After a full day of adventure, you’ll board the van for the return trip, which takes about two hours. Most travelers appreciate the comfort of the small group, allowing for conversations and shared memories. The experience ends back at the starting point on Santa Catarina Street.

What’s Included and Practical Details

For $85, this tour offers excellent value. The price includes breakfast, transportation, a picnic lunch, water, a guide, and photography services—a bonus for those wanting to capture the moment without lugging their camera all day.

The tour runs for roughly 9 hours, with availability depending on the day. It’s a full, immersive experience that balances active exploration with downtime to relax and take in the views.

Meeting Points & Flexibility

Participants gather at the front of Gruta Restaurant in Porto, and the trip concludes back at this same spot. The booking process emphasizes flexibility with a “reserve now, pay later” option and a 24-hour cancellation policy, providing peace of mind in case plans change.

What to Bring

Travelers are advised to bring a sun hat, especially on sunny days, along with comfortable walking shoes. It’s helpful to have sunscreen, a camera, and perhaps a towel for swimming.

Authenticity and Reviews – What Real Travelers Say

The consistent praise from reviews centers around knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and tasty homemade food. Savannah noted that “Michael was a great tour guide. He kept a good pace for us to hike and knew of good spots for photos,” highlighting the personal and attentive nature of the guide.

Natalie appreciated the good value for money and the relaxed, scenic drive through the park, mentioning that “most of the drive is through the park, so scenery is good.” Juliana appreciated the “great balance of hiking and downtime,” which underscores the tour’s thoughtful pacing.

Final Takeaway

For those seeking a full day immersed in Portugal’s wild beauty, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. You’ll get to enjoy nature, authentic cuisine, and expert insights in a manageable, small-group setting.

If you’re a traveler who values high-quality guides, beautiful landscapes, and authentic local experiences, this tour is an excellent choice. The affordability, combined with memorable scenery and genuine Portuguese hospitality, makes it a standout option for exploring Gerês.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Porto to Gerês National Park and back is included, using a comfortable mini-van.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, giving ample time to hike, swim, and enjoy the picnic.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, reviews mention that vegetarian options are available, and the picnic is homemade and plentiful.

How difficult is the hike?
The hikes are relatively short (around 4 km each way) and not considered strenuous, suitable for most fitness levels.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera. Swimming gear might be optional if you want to take a dip.

Is there a guide that speaks English?
Yes, guides speak both French and English, ensuring clear communication and local insights.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventure, cultural richness, and authentic flavors. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want more than just a scenic drive—they want to experience Portugal’s natural beauty firsthand. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it both personal and informative, ensuring you leave with great memories and stunning photos.

For the budget-conscious or those craving a genuine escape into nature, this trip to Gerês National Park provides an authentic, value-packed day out. Whether you’re swimming in lagoons, hiking through lush mountains, or enjoying a homemade Portuguese meal, you’re sure to find plenty to love about this experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: