Natural beauty in Northern Portugal
Embark on an active adventure with an eight day self-drive journey through the untamed beauty of Northern Portugal. Arrive into Porto before escaping further inland where you'll find stunning mountains, hidden lakes and jaw-dropping waterfalls.
Highlights of the trip include; rafting down the Paiva River, a jeep tour between local villages followed by an interpretive walk with visits to farming areas and cattle producers, a boat trip with a environmentalist in Douro Valley, a guided kayak expedition through the Douro International Natural Park, and so much more! Whether you're hiking through pristine wilderness, kayaking on peaceful waters, or savoring the region's finest wines, this trip offers an immersive experience into the natural wonders and hidden gems of Northern Portugal.
Services
Included:
- Seven nights accommodation in standard, comfort or luxury hotels
- Daily breakfast & four lunches
- Seven days car rental
- Activities & admission fees to sites as per the itinerary
- English-speaking guide on excursions
- Ability to expand the duration of your trip, add more travelers & customize your itinerary during the planning stages
- 24-hour assistance throughout your stay
Excluded:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Any meals & drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
- Petrol & parking fees
- Tips & gratuities
Optional:
- Additional excursions; speak to your local expert if there's an experience that you'd really love to include in your trip
Itinerary at a Glance
Porto - Arouca
Welcome to Portugal
Arouca
A day of adventure; canyoning, rafting or canoeing
Arouca - Miranda Do Douro
Journey to Miranda do Douro
Miranda Do Douro
Kayak through Douro Natural Park
Miranda Do Douro - Guimarães - Arcos De Valdevez
Journey to Arcos de Valdevez
Arcos De Valdevez - Peneda-gerês National Park - Arcos De Valdevez
A full day hiking in nature
Arcos De Valdevez - Peneda-gerês National Park - Porto
Hike, bike or jeep in Geres National Park
Porto
Say farewell to Portugal
Detailed Itinerary
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Porto - Arouca
Day 1: Welcome to Portugal
Welcome to Portugal. Arrive into Porto Airport where you’ll be met by your local representative. Together you’ll head to collect your rental car so you can start your self-drive adventure!
Once you have your vehicle, take the scenic drive to Arouca Geopark; a UNESCO Global Geopark celebrated for its exceptional geological heritage, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Here you’ll take a hike following the Paiva River, this 8km trail has one of the best views in the country.
After, take a drive to your accommodation in the Arouca Mountains. Check in and rest after your first day of adventure.
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Arouca
Day 2: A day of adventure; canyoning, rafting or canoeing
Today you have multiple options for a day of extreme adventure! Either take an amazing canyoning excursion through the mountain backroads, a day filled with great rappelling moments, sky-high jumps, astonishing views and spots that can only be reached with specialized guides and material.
Or, go rafting down the Paiva River, which is considered the best river in Portugal for rafting as well as the river with the cleanest waters in Europe.
If you prefer something a bit milder try a canoe trip enjoying the natural landscapes and tranquillity of the river with a picnic style lunch included at the end of the activity.
Arouca - Miranda Do Douro
Day 3: Journey to Miranda do Douro
It’s time to drive to your next destination, Miranda do Douro that’s famous for its colorful and lively folklore.
Once you arrive, the afternoon will be devoted to learning about the arts, customs and traditions of this region. First, take a jeep tour between some of the local villages followed by an interpretive walk with visits to farming areas and cattle producers. After take a boat trip with a environmentalist in Douro Valley inside the Natural Reserve.
Miranda Do Douro
Day 4: Kayak through Douro Natural Park
Embark on a guided kayak expedition through the Douro International Natural Park, where you’ll paddle along the serene waters of the Douro River, which forms the natural border between Portugal and Spain.
As you navigate through the park's stunning landscapes, you'll have the opportunity to observe the rich biodiversity of the region, including rare bird species and lush vegetation. This adventure offers a unique perspective on the park’s dramatic cliffs and tranquil riverbanks, making it an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Miranda Do Douro - Guimarães - Arcos De Valdevez
Day 5: Journey to Arcos de Valdevez
Start the day with a drive to Arcos de Valdevez. On the way, visit the city of Guimarães which is considered to be the birthplace of Portugal. This historic city is now classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is well worth visiting!
Once you arrive in Arcos de Valdevez the rest of the day is free for you to do as you please.
Arcos De Valdevez - Peneda-gerês National Park - Arcos De Valdevez
Day 6: A full day hiking in nature
Today, explore Peneda-Gerês National Park alongside an expert guide who will take you on incredible hikes, show you beautiful landscapes and flora, and show you historical villages lost in time.
You’ll also enjoy a traditional picnic style lunch in one of Gerês’ most iconic viewpoints while you rest with the mountain at your feet and admire the gorgeous surrounding scenery.
Arcos De Valdevez - Peneda-gerês National Park - Porto
Day 7: Hike, bike or jeep in Geres National Park
You have another day in Peneda-Gerês National Park and today you have the option of multiple activities; either take a half-day jeep tour to explore Portugal’s wild landscape of Peneda-Gerês National Park, or if you want something slightly more active, take a bike ride between Arcos de Valdevez and Ponte de Lima, or have another day of hiking through the national park.
Later in the evening, drive back to Porto where you’ll have the evening to explore the city and the gateway to the northern region.
Porto
Day 8: Say farewell to Portugal
It's time to say goodbye to Portugal. Drive to Porto International Airport to drop off your rental car before getting ready for your safe flight home.
