Traveling from Porto and craving a mix of adventure, nature, and a splash of refreshment? This guided tour of Gerês National Park offers just that—an active day out that promises breathtaking scenery, a challenging yet manageable hike, and cool dips in pristine natural pools. If you’re into nature walks and love the idea of swimming in waterfalls, this could be just the escape you need.
What really makes this experience shine are the experienced guides who keep things friendly and informative, and the spectacular scenery that makes every step worthwhile. Plus, the opportunity to relax in crystal-clear water pools is a major highlight—perfect for hot summer days. On the flip side, a potential snag is that the hike covers about 10 km and takes place in direct sun, so it demands decent fitness and sun protection. This tour suits active travelers comfortable with walking in warm conditions and who want a full day immersed in nature’s quiet beauty.
Key Points
- Moderate 10 km hike suitable for active travelers and those used to walking
- Guided tour with knowledgeable, friendly guides offering local insights
- Swim in natural pools (June to September), with enough time to relax and cool off
- Long day trip from Porto, including transportation and scenic stops
- Seasonal considerations: hot summer sun can make the hike more challenging
- No lunch included, so bring your own snacks and water
An Honest Look at the Gerês National Park Hike & Swim Tour
If you’re heading to Porto and looking for a way to experience Portugal’s natural beauty without renting a car or planning complex logistics, this tour could be a good fit. It combines physical activity, scenic vistas, and the chance to cool down in some truly impressive natural pools.
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The itinerary in detail
The tour starts early, with a van ride from Porto that lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes. While some reviews mention the journey feels a little long, most agree it’s a smooth ride with friendly drivers, and it gets you to the park efficiently. Once there, the group begins a guided 2-hour walk through Gerês National Park. Expect a gentle but uneven trail, with full sun exposure, so packing sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water is essential.
The highlight of this first segment is the incredible scenic views, with lush greenery and mountain vistas that make it easy to forget about the effort. You might even spot local wildlife like goats and cows, as some travelers have noted. The pace is generally relaxed, but because of the summer heat and uneven terrain, it can feel more strenuous for those less accustomed to walking.
Reaching the pools
After about 5 km, the group arrives at the stunning natural pools—a true hidden gem in Portugal’s wilderness. Here you’ll have about 1.5 to 2 hours to swim, relax, and soak in the scenery. The water is described as crystal clear and wonderfully cold, perfect for cooling down after the hike. Several reviews emphasize how breathtaking and unique these lagoons are, with one traveler noting, “the lagoons were breathtaking, never seen anything like that before,” and another mentioning how “the water was wonderfully cold—made for amazing pictures.”
During this stop, you can choose to swim, explore the area more, or just lounge by the water’s edge. The pools tend to be less crowded early in the day, giving you a bit of peace and privacy. Keep in mind, the time at the pools depends on the group’s walking pace—if everyone walks briskly, you’ll get the most time to enjoy the water.
The hike back
The return journey mirrors the outbound leg, another 5 km along the same uneven, sun-drenched trail. Most reviews highlight that while the hike is manageable for those used to walking, it can be exhausting in peak summer heat, especially without shade. Still, the scenery on the way back is just as stunning, making the effort more than worthwhile.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat to bring and expect
Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, preferably with good grip since some parts are slippery, and plenty of water and snacks—the tour doesn’t include lunch. Sun protection is crucial, with hats, sunscreen, and light clothing recommended. The entire experience spans roughly 9.5 hours, ending back in Porto around 5:30 PM.
Who is this for?
This tour is perfect if you’re physically fit, comfortable walking 10 km in warm weather, and enjoy outdoor activities. Many reviews mention how guides keep the group moving at a steady pace without rushing, and some highlight how the experience is suitable for those with basic hiking ability. Elderly or those with mobility issues might find the uneven trail and the heat challenging—it’s not designed for mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Not for everyone
If you’re not used to walking long distances, or have specific health issues, this might be tougher than it looks. Also, since it’s an outdoor adventure, rain or extreme heat can influence the experience. Many reviews, however, highlight how the guides are flexible and attentive, creating a safe and enjoyable environment.
The value of the experience
At $89 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day of outdoor fun with transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and plenty of time in spectacular nature. Compared to other local tours, the value is good, especially considering the quality of the natural pools and the scenic hikes. Some reviewers noted the ride to the park felt a bit long but overall found it a worthwhile trip for the scenery and the swimming.
The guide and group
Guides like Miguel, Angelo, and Rui receive high praise for their friendliness, humor, and local knowledge. They make the hike more engaging, sharing fun facts and helping everyone feel comfortable. The small group size—limited to 15-16 participants—means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and you’ll have opportunities for personal questions and tips.
The reviews confirm what many travelers love
Repeatedly, reviewers mention breathtaking vistas, friendly guides, well-organized logistics, and the incredible pools as the main draw. One traveler said, “The lagoons were amazing, and the guide was flexible and fun,” while another appreciated how early start times let them enjoy Porto’s sunrise without the crowds.
Potential improvements
Some mention the hike can be hot and slippery, so advising participants to wear proper footwear and bring extra water could be helpful. A few reviews suggested that if you already have your own transportation, self-guided visits might be more flexible or cheaper—though many still appreciate the convenience of included transport.
The Sum Up
This From Porto: Hike & Swim in Gerês National Park tour offers a balanced mix of physical activity, scenic beauty, and relaxation. It’s especially suited to active travelers who want to see Portugal’s rugged landscapes but don’t mind a bit of effort under the summer sun. The experience is made memorable by its guides, who keep things friendly, safe, and fun, and by the stunning natural pools that serve as a perfect reward after a moderate hike.
If you’re looking for a day outside the city, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and fresh mountain air, this tour provides a genuine taste of Portugal’s wild side. Just be sure to pack well, wear sun protection, and brace for a bit of a workout.
From Porto: Hike & Swim in Gerês National Park
FAQ
Do I need to be an experienced hiker for this tour?
Not necessarily. The hike is about 10 km and considered moderate, suitable for those used to walking. If you’re generally active and comfortable in the outdoors, you’ll likely find it manageable.
Is the swimming in natural pools safe?
Yes, most reviews mention the pools are crystal clear and clean. The water is cold, which many find refreshing, especially on hot days. Always follow guide instructions about swimming.
What should I bring?
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a sun hat, snacks, and comfortable shoes with good grip. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so pack enough food for yourself.
Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
No, the uneven trail and the physical nature of the hike make it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
What is the temperature like?
During summer, temperatures can reach 28-30°C, making the hike more strenuous. Early start times help avoid the hottest part of the day.
How long is the drive from Porto?
The van ride to Gerês lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way, making it a full-day excursion.
If you’re looking for an active way to explore Portugal’s stunning natural scenery, this tour hits many of the right notes—beautiful landscapes, friendly guides, and a refreshing swim in nature’s pools. Just remember to come prepared, stay safe in the sun, and enjoy every moment of this scenic adventure.
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