We’re already counting down to summer. That’s why nothing feels as good as taking advantage of the weekend for a walk and/or a getaway. In Portugal, for example, there are several waterfalls that impress with the beauty and power of their waters.
However, in this article, we want to focus our attention on the north and center of the country. There are so many destinations, you only have to think of Gerês and almost immediately a few itineraries full of waterfalls come to mind. However, it’ s not only here that you can feel the opulence of nature.
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Waterfalls, some of the most beautiful and impressive
Some are easily accessible, others not so much, and can only be reached by footpaths. At the same time, you should bear in mind that it ‘s not always possible to go bathing. In other words, in some cases, pure contemplation of nature is the best option.
In any case, this guide includes some of the most beautiful and impressive waterfalls in the north and center of Portugal. So you can be sure of one thing: any of these suggestions will look good in photographs, whether you’re close up or far away. The order is random, but the strength is the same. Let’s go?
Arado Waterfall
This is one of the many waterfalls in Gerês, and also one of the best known and (almost) obligatory to visit. Located at an altitude of around 900 meters, this waterfall is about 3 km from the village of Ermida and approximately 8 km from the town of Gerês.
According to the Terras de Bouro tourismwebsite, the Arado waterfall can be reached by car. However, the last kilometer is a dirt track to the bridge over the River Arado. From here, you have to climb the stone steps that take you to a small viewpoint.
In addition, according to the same source, bathing in this place is not recommended, “as it is considered to be a place where accidents can happen”. Therefore, read the information carefully before you go so that you can make the most of your trip.
Pincho Waterfall
Located just over 20 km from Viana do Castelo, the Pincho Waterfall, also known as Ferida Má, is one of the most beautiful and famous in Alto Minho.
Its privileged location in the middle of the Serra d’Arga provides a breathtaking landscape, with greenery as far as the eye can see. The waters here are crystal clear, which is why they attract many visitors, especially in summer.
Frecha da Mizarela
The municipality of Arouca really is a green oasis in the heart of the Porto Metropolitan Area. Here you can also find one of the most impressive waterfalls not only in the north and center of Portugal, but in the whole country.
Located in Serra da Freita, in the Arouca Geopark , Frecha da Mizarela is over 60 meters high. There are some hiking trails, but to appreciate the exuberance of this natural spectacle, you can do so from the Frecha da Mizarela viewpoint.
Fisgas do Ermelo
In the Alvão Natural Park, in the municipality of Mondim de Basto, you’ll find one of the most beautiful waterfalls in northern Portugal and one of the largest in Europe.
Located about 6 km from the village of the same name, you can contemplate the beauty of this waterfall from a viewpoint.
However, if you prefer to enjoy Fisgas do Ermelo more closely, there is a dedicated trail.
Cabreia Waterfall
In central Portugal, the Cabreia Waterfall is well worth a visit. Located in the parish of Silva Escura, in the municipality of Sever do Vouga, the waterfall is surrounded by a leisure park, with tables and benches that invite you to have a picnic on warmer days.
These are just five of the many waterfalls that leave us speechless. Of course, there are others that deserve your visit, so we’ll be updating this article frequently so that you don’t miss a thing.
In any case, this brief itinerary is already a good starting point for a refreshing and green immersion, in connection with nature at its purest!