Would you like to dive into the depths of the Earth, witness breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations? Then you should visit the five Portuguese Geoparks that UNESCO has added to its worldwide network.
For those who enjoy being in nature and, at the same time, want to know more about the evolution of Planet Earth, there is nothing better than exploring the wonders of our geological heritage.
In Portugal there are five UNESCO Global Geoparks full of geological diversity and natural, cultural and culinary heritage, which are definitely worth a visit. Join this unique and unforgettable adventure!
The first Portuguese Geopark to join UNESCO's Global Geoparks Network was the Naturtejo Geopark, in 2006.
Here you can visit places of great geological interest such as Portas de Ródão, near the Tejo River; the Granite Morphologies of Gardunha, in Castelo Branco; the waterfall at Fraga da Água d'Alta, in Oleiros; the Roman Gold Mine of Conhal do Aneiro, in Nisa; the River Erges Canyon and the trace fossils of Penha Garcia, both in Idanha-a-Nova.
If you enjoy walking, the Gardunha Trail (in Serra da Gardunha, Castelo Branco) blends nature walks with abundant geological heritage that can be found along the entire route. If you prefer adrenaline and adventure, there are several tour operators organising climbing, kayaking, canoeing and mountain biking trips on site.
Take the opportunity to visit some of Portugal's historical villages, Monsanto and Idanha-a-Velha, or the Shale Villages that are part of the Naturtejo Geopark’s territory. You will be delighted by the cultural identity and scenic beauty of the region, the friendliness of its people and the unique flavours of its cuisine. After a day exploring these geological wonders, there is nothing better than tucking into a delicious soup served in an iron pot, a kid goat stew or some bread baked in a wood oven.
Arouca Geopark and the Bedrock phenomenon
In the village of Castanheira, on the Serra da Freita plateau, you will find the magical Pedras Parideiras (Bedrocks), a very rare geological phenomenon in which you can observe rocks "giving birth", which are actually rocks that become detached from the parent rock. If you want to take a guided tour of the place, or learn more about this geological wonder, visit the Casa das Pedras Parideiras - Centro de Interpretação (Bedrock House - Visitor Centre), which is located in the same village.
Another must-see is the Trilobite Museum - Geological Visitor Centre, located in Canelas. On display are the world's largest trilobites and various fossils that tell us stories of the Earth and the evolution of life on our planet.
In addition to its geological heritage, Arouca is a tourist destination that is worth a visit due to its magnificent landscape, culture and cuisine.
Don't miss the Paiva Walkways, where you can take a magnificent eight-kilometre walk through an exuberant natural setting, with wildwater canoeing, quartz crystals and various types of wild species. Crossing the 516 Arouca Bridge is also a real adventure. It is 516 metres long and suspended 175 metres above the Paiva River.
For those who enjoy outdoor physical activity, there are countless green trails and lots of extreme sports activities. Try rafting and canoeing on the Paiva River. At Frecha da Mizarela, the highest waterfall in mainland Portugal, you can also try your hand at canyoning, a sport that combines walking, swimming, abseiling and climbing.
Azores Geopark covers 9 islands
The 10 Volcanoes Trail, on the island of Faial, is ideal for those who to discover the volcanoes of the Azores on foot. The trail begins at the Caldeira do Faial Nature Reserve and ends near the Capelinhos Visitor Centre, which introduces people to the history of the volcano's eruption in 1957.
For a truly unforgettable experience, descend into the depths of Algar do Carvão, on the island of Terceira. This volcanic chimney was formed around 3200 years ago and its interior can be accessed by a 300-metre concrete staircase. In addition to the geological attractions of the site, you will be able to observe the crater's lush green vegetation, as well as sparrows, blackbirds, finches and many insects.
The Azores Geopark promises to dazzle not only with the diversity and abundance of its geological heritage, but also with its natural landscapes, unforgettable mountains and trails, friendly people and delicious food.
Terras de Cavaleiros: 42 geosites to discover
There are 42 geosites to explore, such as the Vilariça Fault, in Podence, the Metavulcanites of Fraga da Pegada or the Murçós Mines. Here, you can see the mine gallery and auxiliary buildings where, in the past, the separation of the ore was carried out. The region's mining activity focused on the extraction of tungsten, a highly important metal for the production of armaments during World War II.
The beautiful Azibo Reservoir Protected Landscape that is part of this territory is also worth a visit. Here you can do kayaking, standup paddleboarding, sailing, or even go for a walk or bicycle ride to watch birds such as the common grebe, the mallard duck, the common ringed plover, the rock curlew and the kingfisher, amongst others. In the parishes near the Azibo area, there are traces of Neolithic pieces, such as the polished stone axe of Bornes.
You can also explore the magnificent traditions of the territory within the Terras de Cavaleiros Geopark. Experience the festive atmosphere of Carnival and the Podence Carnival Masks and savour the unique flavours of game dishes, steaks, veal chops, grilled lamb, smoked meat with turnip greens and chestnut pudding, among many others.
Estrela Geopark: incomparable beauty
In Manteigas, you can visit the Zezêre Glacial Valley, or the Granite Columns of Covão do Boi, where you can find the figure of Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela (Our Lady of the Good Star), also known as the Patron Saint of Shepherds, carved on the walls of this cave.
To learn more about the history and geological heritage of the region, visit the Torre do Estrela Geopark Visitor Centre.
If you visit the region in winter, enjoy the snowy weather and take the opportunity to do some skiing or snowboarding. In summer, enjoy the peace and beauty of the region's river beaches and lagoons.
