Arouca River Walks and Suspension Bridge

ITINERARY

Sweet Beginnings in Arouca

Your private tour begins with a personalized pick-up from your accommodation, followed by a scenic drive to the charming town of Arouca, nestled in the lush hills of northern Portugal. As the morning light filters through the mountains, we’ll arrive in the historic village of Arouca. At the heart of Arouca lies its impressive 17th-century monastery, a Baroque masterpiece that echoes centuries of religious, cultural, and agricultural legacy. Here, you’ll have the chance to stroll through its peaceful cloisters and soak in the atmosphere of one of Portugal’s most meaningful monastic landmarks.

But Arouca is also known for its irresistible traditional pastries, crafted for generations by local convents and family bakeries. We’ll stop at a beloved local pastry shop for a tasting of “Barrigas de Freira” (Nun’s Bellies), “Castanhas Doces” (Sweet Chestnuts), and the delicate “Roscas de Arouca.” Paired with a warm coffee or herbal tea, this tasting is not just a treat—it’s a cultural experience, rooted in the flavors and rituals of the region.

From Culture to Nature

With your senses awakened and your curiosity stirred, we’ll continue toward the Paiva Walkways, just a short drive from town. Energized by local sweetness and inspired by Arouca’s heritage, you’ll be ready to embark on one of the most remarkable nature trails in Europe, combining history, geology, and the sheer beauty of Portugal’s wild heart.

A Tailored Nature Walk at Your Own Pace

Stretching across the dramatic Paiva Gorge, the trail is around 8 km and follows the left bank of the river, zig-zagging along cliff faces and descending wooden stairways into an ancient landscape shaped over millennia. Here, our expert local guides will bring the valley to life—revealing hidden stories of tectonic forces, rare flora and fauna, archaeological remnants, and the cultural heritage that defines the region.

Along the way, you’ll marvel at stunning landmarks such as the Aguieiras Waterfall, the Vau River Beach, and the majestic 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge—one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world. Standing 175 meters above the river, this architectural feat offers panoramic views and a thrilling moment suspended between earth and sky.

516 Arouca – A Thrilling Walk in the Sky

Included in your tour is access to the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge, one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges. Suspended 175 meters above the Paiva River, this 516-meter crossing offers breathtaking views over the gorge and surrounding valley.

As you step across its see-through deck, you’ll experience the thrill of walking above waterfalls, cliffs, and forested slopes—a moment of pure adrenaline and awe in the heart of nature.

Gourmet Picnic or Portuguese Lunch

Halfway through the walk, we pause for a picnic in nature, featuring local products—fresh cheese, smoked sausages, seasonal fruit, artisan bread, natural juices, and, on warmer days, a comforting cold drink. It’s a moment to relax, reconnect, and savor the silence of the valley.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll pause at the Serra da Freita viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panoramic view—often considered one of the most beautiful in the Geopark. After time to reflect and capture final memories, you’ll be returned comfortably to your accommodation, with the essence of the Arouca Geopark etched into your senses.

Highlights

516 Arouca Bridge, Nature & Premium Picnic

• • Explore Arouca´s Geopark on a Guided Walking Tour

  •   Discover Arouca City Centre and Monuments

  • Arouca 516 Suspension Bridge

  •   Delicious portuguese picnic or lunch

  •   Explore Paiva Walkways, Waterfalls and Lagoons

  • Engaging with welcoming locals

  • 

• © Paulo Castro Photography

• Included

  • Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off in Porto and Braga regions
  • Private Transportation in a Van or Car
  • Professional guiding services in Portuguese, Spanish, French, and English
  • Delicious Picnic Lunch involved with nature
  • Fees and Entrance
  • Bottled water
  • Free Wifi on board

• Not Included

  • • – Personal expenses
    • – Infant seats available upon request
    • – Not wheelchair accessible

• Additional Information

  • • – If any food allergies or veggie options, please mention at the checkout
    • – Wear comfortable walking shoes
    • – Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • – Minimum Group Size 1
    • – Maximum Group Size 8
    • – Wear comfortable walking shoes
    • – Bring your backpack, water, sun cream and hat
    • – Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • – Any physical or health issues must be addressed prior to the tour

• Starting and Ending Time

  08.30 am – departure from accomodation

  17.30 am – arrival at accomodation

• Duration

  9h

• Meeting Point

  Pick-up and Drop-Off at your Accommodation

Price Information per Person

ADULT

• 8 people – 125€
• 7 people – 130€
• 6 people – 135€
• 5 people – 140€
• 4 people – 150€
• 3 people – 200 €
• 2 people – 295€
• 1 person – 450€

CHILDREN

• 0 to 3 years old – Free
• 3 to 12 years old – 50% Discount

PAYMENT TERMS AND CANCELATIONS

• Free Cancellation 48 hours before departure
• Cancellations with less than 48 hours prior to departure or no-show, the tickets are non-refundable
• A 100% Pre-Booking deposit is required to confirm your tour reservation
• Online bookings full payment must be done 48 hours before departure
• Payment Method: Credit Card

Positive Travel

Since 2023, we have been implementing an ambitious carbon mitigation plan. To be certain that our sustainability initiatives are making impact, we are part of the action, supporting local community development projects in reforestation and wildlife preservation.