Published on 22 April 2026
Three days in Gerês is the ideal time to discover the best the National Park has to offer. This itinerary was designed for a perfect balance between nature, rest and cultural discovery.
Day 1 — Arrival and Nature Immersion
Morning: Check-in and relaxation
Arrive at Gerês Cascatas Residence late morning. After check-in, enjoy the private balcony with mountain views for coffee and planning.
Afternoon: Termas Park
Just 650 m from the property (8 minutes on foot), stroll through the historic Parque das Termas do Gerês. The thermal waters and centuries-old buildings are a perfect introduction.
Late afternoon: Pedra Bela Viewpoint
Drive up to Miradouro da Pedra Bela (5 km) to watch sunset over the Gerês Valley. One of the most spectacular views in Portugal.
Dinner: Local gastronomy
Try traditional flavours at one of the restaurants 600 m away. We recommend posta à mirandesa, roast kid goat, or bacalhau à lagareiro.
Day 2 — Waterfalls and Reservoirs
Morning: Arado Waterfall
Leave early for Arado Waterfall (18 min drive). Park and follow the short trail to the viewpoint. Allow 1-2 hours.
Lunch: Picnic or restaurant
Continue to Campo do Gerês for a typical lunch or a picnic in the National Park.
Afternoon: Canicada Reservoir
Albufeira da Caniçada (3 km) is ideal for a refreshing swim in summer or a boat trip year-round. Kayaks and SUPs available for rent.
Late afternoon: Thermal baths
Return to the property and enjoy Gerês Thermal Baths. Spa treatments are a unique experience to relax muscles after hiking.
Day 3 — Heritage and Farewell
Morning: São Bento Sanctuary
Visit Portugal’s third most-visited sanctuary — Santuário de São Bento da Porta Aberta (7 km). The architecture and viewpoint are worth the trip.
Afternoon: Misarela Bridge
The legendary Ponte da Misarela (Devil’s Bridge) is one of the most impressive medieval engineering works in Northern Portugal.
Farewell: Pincães Waterfall
Before heading home, visit the traditional village of Pincães and its waterfall.
What to bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Swimsuit (even in winter — there are thermal baths!)
- Insect repellent (Spring/Summer)
- Camera
- Reusable water bottle
- ID document
When to visit
- Spring (April-May): waterfalls at peak flow, flora in bloom
- Summer (June-September): ideal for swimming in lagoons
- Autumn (October-November): stunning colours, fewer tourists
- Winter (December-March): unique charm with possible snow
Book your stay at Gerês Cascatas Residence and let us help make this itinerary unforgettable.