Things to do in Gerês: 4 ideas for enjoying the region

If you’re wondering what to do in Gerês, don’t worry: there’s no shortage of things to do in this part of the country.

But more important than the list of things you can do in Gerês is the pace at which you do them. You can try to see everything, rushing from waterfall to waterfall, viewpoint to viewpoint, or you can choose another way to experience the mountains: more slowly; more fully in the moment; and more on your own terms.

Because, in the end, it’s not about how many places you’ve visited. It’s about what you’ve actually experienced.

Things to do in Gerês: 4 ideas for exploring the mountains

In Gerês, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this region in the north of the country. Here you’ll find a range of different activities to get stuck into.

Here are 4 types of experiences you can enjoy in Gerês.

1. Nature: where it all begins

You really get a feel for Gerês through nature – in the fresher air, the sound of running water and the way everything seems to move at a slower pace.

So, if you’re looking for things to do in Gerês, don’t miss:

• Waterfalls and natural lakes;
• Viewpoints offering unobstructed views of the mountains;
• Short, accessible trails

But there’s one important thing to bear in mind: you don’t have to do everything in one day. Choose fewer things and stay longer.

2. Trails and walks

Hiking trails are one of the most popular activities for those looking for things to do in Gerês, but they’re also where people most often go wrong. Many people try:

• Walking too many kilometres;
• Walk quickly;
• Just completing trails without enjoying them.

When, in fact, the best of Gerês comes when everything slows down. There are simple gestures that can completely transform your experience:

• Start early, with a slow pace;
• Choose trails that suit your pace;
• Stop, even if you don’t need to.

Because walking in Gerês isn’t just about getting there. It’s about being there and experiencing the mountains, and to that end, there’s a network of walking trails so you can explore nature.

3. Local cuisine

After a morning spent in the great outdoors, there’s a moment that changes the whole day: sitting at the table. The food in Gerês isn’t just traditional, it’s comforting, as it features:

• Dishes prepared with care;
• Intense flavours;
• Meals that aren’t meant to be rushed.

Here, eating doesn’t interrupt the day. It’s part of it.

In Gerês, you’ll find home-cooked recipes that have been passed down through the generations, featuring the region’s traditional specialities, such as Barrosã beef, kid, honey and bread, amongst others.

4. Thermal Baths

The thermal baths are one of the best things to do for anyone who doesn’t know what to get up to in Gerês. These thermal waters are well known, but what makes them special is the setting.

After walking and breathing in the mountain air, your body is more ready to rest. And you can really feel it, as it’s a different kind of rest – deeper and more mindful.

The thermal season in Gerês begins in May and runs until October, making it a great excuse to visit this region.

What you should include in your plan for exploring Gerês

There’s one thing that many people don’t include in their plans: free time. Experiencing Gerês requires moments without activity, purpose or haste, such as:

• To sit at a viewpoint and take it all in;
• Spending more time and really sitting down at the table;
• Go back to your room a bit earlier to relax.

You’ll find that it’s at times like these that Gerês really comes into its own. And where does it all come together?

You can do all these things, but the experience changes completely depending on where you’re staying. Because the day doesn’t end when you get back. It carries on:

• In the silence;
• During your meals;
• In the way you are welcomed.

At Adelaide, many guests looking for things to do in Gerês end up experiencing the mountains like this:

• Take your time;
• Without interruptions;
• It’s as if time has slowed down.

And that makes all the difference!

Here are a few quick ideas to help you plan what to do in Gerês during your day.

It’s simple, but you’ll see that it works.

Frequently Asked Questions about things to do in Gerês

What can you do in Gerês at the weekend?

Combining nature, good food and moments of relaxation is the best way to make the most of it.

What is the ideal number of days?

2 to 3 days will allow you to enjoy a peaceful experience.

Is it worth visiting Gerês outside the summer months?

Yes. That’s often when the experience is most peaceful and authentic.

Do I need to plan everything in advance?

No. Having room to improvise enhances the experience.

Discover Gerês and experience the mountains at their very heart

There’s plenty to do in Gerês. But perhaps the most important thing is this: don’t try to do everything at once!

Try to choose less and feel more, and give it time. Because when everything slows down, everything changes, and that’s when the experience really begins.

If you’re looking for things to do in Gerês and somewhere to stay, check our availability at the Adelaide Hotel.