Bringing children to Gerês for the first time almost always raises the same question: will there be enough activities to keep them entertained for several days?
The answer is simple: more than you imagine.
The Peneda-Gerês National Park offers something that few destinations can provide these days. Here, children can see horses roaming freely, swim in crystal-clear river beaches, explore waterfalls, visit centuries-old villages, and discover nature without filters or screens.
The best part is that you don’t need to plan difficult hikes or complicated itineraries. Many of the best experiences are just minutes from Vila do Gerês.
In this guide, we’ve compiled the children’s activities that we most recommend to guests of the Adelaide Hotel throughout the summer.
For a comfortable and worry-free stay, discover our family rooms in Gerês.
The best activities for children in Gerês during the summer.
1. Caniçada River Beach
Caniçada River Beach continues to be the number one choice for many families.
The sandy area allows children to play by the water while parents relax or participate in the available activities.
During the summer you can find:
- Stand Up Paddle
- Pedal Boats
- Inflatable water toys
- Jet ski
- Activities for groups
- Nautical equipment rental
It’s just a few minutes from the Adelaide Hotel and perfect for a full day out with the family.
2. Jeep tour through Gerês
Few activities can appeal to all ages like a jeep tour.
The tours organized by local guides allow you to visit places that most visitors never get to see.
Along the route it is common to pass by:
- Hidden waterfalls
- Panoramic viewpoints
- Traditional villages
- Areas where Garrano horses live
- Mountain landscapes inaccessible to conventional vehicles.
For families with young children, it’s one of the most comfortable ways to explore the Gerês National Park.
3. Horseback Riding
Riding a horse for the first time is an experience that is hard to forget.
There are several operators in the region that organize tours adapted for beginners and children.
The routes cross forested areas, rural paths and mountainous regions, always accompanied by experienced professionals.
For many children, this ends up being the most memorable moment of the holidays.
4. Observe the Garrano Horses
The Garrano horses are one of the symbols of Gerês.
Unlike other regions, here they live freely and can appear unexpectedly during a walk through the mountains.
It’s a simple experience, but one that usually impresses children of all ages.
5. Arado Waterfall
The Arado Waterfall is a must-see for families visiting Gerês.
Access is relatively easy, and the natural surroundings create a perfect setting for photographs and family moments.
6. Poço Azul
Poço Azul is one of the best-known natural pools in the National Park.
Access involves a short walk, more suitable for children aged 8 and up, but the color of the water and the scenery make every step worthwhile.
7. Tahiti Waterfall
Tahiti Waterfall is one of the most famous images of Gerês.
Located approximately a 23-minute drive from the Adelaide Hotel, it offers several natural pools surrounded by enormous granite formations.
It’s an excellent option for families with older children.
8. Lindoso Castle
Between nature and adventure, it’s worth setting aside an afternoon to visit Lindoso Castle.
Besides the medieval fortress, children are often fascinated by the famous granite granaries that surround the monument.
9. Villages of Soajo and Lindoso
The traditional villages of Gerês function almost like open-air museums.
As ruas em granito, os animais e a arquitetura típica despertam a curiosidade dos mais pequenos e mostram uma realidade muito diferente daquela a que estão habituados.
10. Picnic at a Viewpoint
Not all activities need to be demanding.
A simple picnic overlooking the mountains can turn into one of the most peaceful and special moments of the holidays.
The Adelaide Hotel team can help you choose the best locations for that.
11. Sete Lagoas of Xertelo
The famous Seven Lagoons are one of the most impressive places in Gerês.
Located about 50 minutes from the hotel, they offer crystal-clear waters and unique landscapes.
Many families choose to visit this area via jeep tours accompanied by local guides, making the experience more comfortable and safe.
12. Wildlife Observation
As the afternoon draws to a close, the chances of observing the following increase:
- Garrano Horses
- Foxes
- Boars
- Birds of prey
For many children, discovering animals in the wild is just as exciting as any theme park.
What is the best activity for each age group?
From 2 to 5 years old
- Caniçada River Beach
- Jeep Tour
- Observation of garrons
- Picnics at viewpoints
From ages 6 to 9
- Horseback riding
- Arado Waterfall
- Lindoso Castle
- Traditional villages
From age 10 onwards
- Poço Azul
- Tahiti Waterfall
- Sete Lagoas
- Easy trails in Gerês
Are you unsure which of these activities are best suited to your children’s age?
Check out our Family Program in Gerês and let the Adelaide Hotel team help you organize your days even before you arrive.
Family Holidays at the Adelaide Hotel
After a day full of adventures, it feels good to return to a comfortable place.
At Adelaide Hotel you’ll find family rooms, a restaurant, breakfast included, and a prime location in the center of Vila do Gerês.
Most importantly, you’ll find a team that knows the region inside and out and helps hundreds of families make the most of their stay every day.
Book before peak season.
The activities of Gerês will be waiting for you throughout the summer.
The most sought-after family rooms aren’t always the most popular.
July and August are the months with the highest demand from families, and availability dwindles rapidly.
Book your stay at the Adelaide Hotel now and arrive in Gerês with everything prepared for a holiday that your children will remember for many years to come.
