Porto: swimming, hiking, picnic in Gerês National Park

Traveling from Porto to explore Portugal’s most stunning natural wonder, Gerês National Park, promises a day packed with adventure, breathtaking scenery, and authentic cuisine. This small-group tour, offered by Grapes Journeys, combines hiking, wild swimming, and a delicious picnic, all within a manageable 9-hour window. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply craving a scenic escape, this experience delivers on many fronts.

We particularly love the personalized guide-led approach, the chance to swim in pristine lagoons, and the authentic Portuguese picnic foods. However, the relatively short hikes and limited free time might not satisfy those seeking a more strenuous or extended exploration. This tour is best suited for travelers wanting an accessible, well-rounded day immersed in nature without the need for intense trekking.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere
• Accessible hikes of about 4 km each way make it suitable for most fitness levels
• Authentic Portuguese picnic with homemade food, wine, and fresh fruit
• Stunning scenery with waterfalls, lagoons, and mountain views that look straight out of a postcard
• Expert guide offers local insights, history, and photography tips
• Flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This day trip from Porto is designed to blend nature, culture, and leisure into a seamless adventure. Starting early in Santa Catarina Street, you’ll hop into a cozy mini-van with a small group of no more than 8 people. The intimate size means plenty of opportunities for personal interaction, questions, and tailored sightseeing tips—something larger tours often miss.

The journey begins with a 2-hour scenic drive through Portugal’s lush landscapes, setting the mood for your day. Expect to pass through quaint villages, rolling hills, and forested areas, giving you a taste of rural Portugal and a chance to settle into the adventure ahead.

First Stop: The Gateway to Gerês

Arriving at the park, your guide—highlighted by reviews for being knowledgeable and friendly—will lead you on short 4 km hikes each way, exploring some of the park’s most celebrated sights. While the hikes are described as manageable, the true highlight lies in reaching the seven lagoons and waterfalls, which look like scenes from a fairy tale. Reviewers like Savannah mention that guide Michael “knew good spots for photos,” making sure you don’t miss the best viewpoints.

Swimming in Crystal Lagoons

The main draw is definitely the swimming in the seven lagoons, each with clear, inviting waters. The lagoons are perfect for wild swimming, offering a refreshing break from the hike. You’ll love the way the water feels against the mountain backdrop—cool, clean, and invigorating. Reviewers like Juliana praise the “great balance of hiking and downtime,” which allows you to soak in the scenery and unwind.

Authentic Portuguese Picnic

After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a homemade picnic featuring Portuguese salad, bread, finger foods, and fruit salad. The food quality consistently impresses guests, with many mentioning it’s plentiful, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared. Mikael, the guide, often surprises guests with local wine, adding a celebratory touch to the meal. As Natalie puts it, the homemade lunch was of “amazing quality,” and vegetarians will find plenty of options.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visiting a Traditional Village

The tour also visits one of the last remaining communal villages in northeastern Portugal. Here, you’ll step into a world where traditions are still alive—possibly seeing local craftsmanship or learning about age-old lifestyles. This cultural connection, coupled with the natural beauty, makes the experience more meaningful.

What to Expect Day-by-Day

Start Point: R. de Santa Catarina 447, Porto – where the adventure begins early with a brief introduction and quick breakfast. Expect a filling start with pastel de nata, fruit, coffee, and water to fuel your day.

Transport: The cozy van ride lasts about 2 hours, during which your guide will share insights about the landscape, flora, and fauna, making the drive part of the overall experience. Reviews suggest the drive is scenic, and guides like Mikael are well-prepared with water, sunscreen, and plenty of local stories.

Hiking: The two main hikes are relatively short—just 4 km each way—but packed with views of waterfalls, lush greenery, and the lagoons. The hikes aren’t overly strenuous, making this suitable for most fitness levels. The pace is well-managed, with guides ensuring everyone keeps up comfortably.

Lunch Break: The picnic is served at a scenic spot within the park. Guests consistently praise the homemade, generous portions and the chance to sample Portuguese specialties—plus the optional wine if you’re in the mood.

Afternoon Activities: Post-lunch, you’ll continue exploring more lagoons and waterfalls, with ample time for swimming and relaxing. As Juliana notes, the balance of activity and downtime allows for pure enjoyment of the environment.

Return: After a final two-hour drive back to Porto, you’ll arrive feeling both relaxed and energized, with photos, memories, and perhaps a new appreciation for Portugal’s natural beauty.

Transport, Group Size, and Value

The small group setting (limited to 8 participants) is a significant advantage, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The cost of $85 per person covers nearly everything—transportation, guide, breakfast, picnic, water, and photography—making it a good value considering the full day of activity and the quality of experiences.

Reviews emphasize the guidance of Mikael, who is praised for his knowledge, preparation, and friendly demeanor. His tips and stories enhance the trip, transforming it from a simple hike to a cultural and scenic journey.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a light outdoor adventure with manageable walks, stunning scenery, and authentic local foods. It’s perfect for those who appreciate nature but prefer a less physically demanding outing. Families, casual hikers, and curious travelers will find it especially rewarding, as it combines natural beauty, cultural insight, and leisure seamlessly.

Final Thoughts — Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Gerês National Park. The combination of beautiful landscapes, wild swimming, and homemade Portuguese food creates a memorable day—without feeling rushed or overly intense. The small-group format and knowledgeable guide make it stand out as a personalized experience.

For just $85, you get an excellent balance of adventure and relaxation, combined with local insights and a chance to enjoy Portugal’s outdoor splendors. It’s especially suited for those wanting a straightforward, fun, and authentic outdoor day trip from Porto.

If you’re after stunning scenery, a bit of exercise, and tasty food, this tour checks all those boxes and more. Just remember to bring a sun hat, comfortable shoes, and your camera—this will be a day to remember.

FAQ

How long is the drive to Gerês National Park?
Expect about 2 hours each way in the cozy mini-van, making the journey part of the scenic experience.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, a guided tour, breakfast (coffee, pastel de nata, fruit), a picnic lunch with Portuguese salad, dessert, bread, finger foods, fruit salad, water, and photography.

Is the hike difficult?
Not at all. The hikes are short, approximately 4 km each way, and are suitable for most fitness levels. The focus is on enjoying the scenery rather than strenuous trekking.

Can vegetarians participate?
Yes, the picnic includes vegetarian options, and reviewers confirm that the food caters well to different dietary preferences.

Is swimming in the lagoons safe?
The lagoons are described as crystal-clear and inviting, ideal for wild swimming. Always follow your guide’s instructions regarding swimming safety.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
While the specific starting times vary, generally, the tour runs during daylight hours suitable for outdoor activities—check availability for exact timings.

Do I need to bring anything?
A sun hat is recommended, along with comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit if you want to swim, and perhaps a camera or phone for photos.

This guided tour from Porto to Gerês National Park offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and leisure. It delivers memorable moments, stunning landscapes, and authentic flavors—ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet immersive outdoor experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: