The one and only National Park of Portugal – Peneda Gerês

In North Eastern Portugal, bordering Spain is not only the largest National Park of Portugal, it is officially also the only… Located only a one-hour drive from the tourism magnet of Porto this is a great one or two day trip on any visit to Portugal, and it is also free of charge.

Terraced fields and villages around Sistelo - Peneda Geres, Portugal

Worth to note is that this area is quite rainy in winter, and there might also be snow. However, my opinion is that going in low season, and during days with “bad” weather can be a bliss as one may experience the majestic landscape feeling like a VIP on a private tour without the crowds covering the views.

Characteristic Cachena cattle around Geres - Peneda Geres, Portugal

The area is great for hikes, and it is also possible to drive between different areas, the roads are quite small and curvy though so exercise caution if driving.

Apart from the marvellous natural landscape around the area, there are also some very pretty villages where traditional Portuguese village life is still maintained.

View point in Geres with an areal view of the national park - Portugal



The Granaries of Soajo - Geres, Portugal

Village Square in Sistelo - Peneda Geres, Portugal

Nossa Senhora da Peneda - Geres, Portugal

The Village of Sistelo - Peneda Geres, Portugal

A platter of local cheese in Peneda Geres - Portugal

Stewed wild boar - Peneda Geres, Portugal

Whale Watching, Sao Miguel, Azores

One must do activity in Azores would be going for a trip to look for dolphins and whales.
Important to keep in mind is that you are not guaranteed to see anything, although highly likely to see at least dolphins during the excursion.


There are quite many operators offering whale watching on Azores, departing from various towns. I went with Terra Azul (https://www.azoreswhalewatch.com/) departing from Vila Franca Do Campo for a three hour trip priced just around 60€ for one person.


I did not expect the three hours to pass so quickly, and what I also did not expect was the emotions rushing through me at every sighting of marine life. It was really worth the money, the guide made the best to inform us of the species we saw and their charateristics. We were lucky on that day back in June 2018 and spotted various types of both dolphins and whales, including a fin whale (second largest whale in the Ocean). Below would be my impression from this wonderful 3 hours tour.


Dolphins on the whale watching tour with Terra Azul, Azores



Pilot whales with their characteristic fins outside the Azores, Whale watching with Terra Azul



Rib Boat with dolphins jumping in front, whale watching with Terra Azul, Azores