Gerís in a Sustainable Way

Exploring the stunning landscapes of Peneda-Gerês in a sustainable manner offers visitors an immersive experience that highlights the region’s natural beauty while respecting its rich cultural heritage. Travelers can embark on guided tours, savor locally-sourced meals, and sample the renowned vinho verde, all while prioritizing eco-friendly practices that minimize environmental impact. By collaborating with local communities and implementing responsible waste management, this approach allows visitors to appreciate Gerês’s vibrant ecosystems and cherished traditions. Those seeking an enlightening and sustainable adventure won’t want to miss the opportunity to…

Key Points

• Explore the lush Peneda-Gerês National Park through a sustainable two-day journey focusing on the region’s natural beauty, local products, and cultural heritage.
• Experience the unique architecture and traditions of Sistelo, known as the "Portuguese Tibet," while supporting the local community and minimizing environmental impact.
• Stay overnight in a historic 11th-century Benedictine monastery, immersing in the region’s rich history and prioritizing eco-friendly practices.
• Savor the signature vinho verde wine and locally-sourced, sustainable meals amidst picturesque picnic settings in Arcos de Valdevez.
• Adhere to strict guidelines for responsible waste management, energy conservation, and respect for local customs to preserve the environmental and cultural integrity of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

This sustainable Gerês experience offers a two-day journey through the greenest area of Portugal, the Alto Minho region.

Priced from Kč12,062 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, providing flexibility.

The experience showcases the region’s natural beauty, local products, and unique cultural elements. Visitors can expect to explore distinctive terraced grain fields, sample regional wines, and enjoy outdoor meals amidst the stunning scenery.

With a focus on sustainability, this tour promises an immersive and environmentally conscious exploration of the Gerês National Park.

Itinerary and Locations

The two-day itinerary takes visitors on an immersive journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Peneda-Gerês National Park. The adventure begins at the starting point of Rua Ofélia Diogo da Costa.

On the first day, guests will explore the village of Sistelo, known as the "Portuguese Tibet," participate in a guided tour, visit an arts and crafts market, enjoy a picnic, and explore the charming town of Arcos de Valdevez.

The second day features an overnight stay at a historic 11th-century Benedictine monastery and a visit to the main stop at Rua Ofélia Diogo da Costa.

The itinerary is subject to change, ensuring a dynamic and adaptable experience.

Highlights and Experience

Visitors can explore the greenest area of Portugal, Alto Minho, during this immersive experience. They’ll enjoy local products, pure nature, and outdoor meals throughout the journey.

The tour features distinctive terraced grain fields and stunning viewpoints, with knowledgeable local guides providing insights.

Highlights include:

1. Sampling the region’s signature vinho verde, a slightly effervescent white wine.
2. Discovering the unique architecture and cultural traditions of the "Portuguese Tibet" in Sistelo.
3. Browsing the arts and crafts market for handmade local goods.
4. Exploring the 11th-century Monastery used by the Benedictine order since the 16th century.

Inclusions and Restrictions

The tour includes transport, accommodation, breakfast, and one meal. However, there are certain restrictions to be aware of. The tour is not suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, people over 220 lbs (100 kg), those with motion sickness, or hearing-impaired individuals.

Inclusions	Restrictions
Transport	No children under 10
Accommodation	No wheelchair users
Breakfast	No people over 220 lbs (100 kg)
One meal	No motion sickness
	No hearing-impaired individuals

Participants are required to bring a passport or ID, as well as comfortable shoes and clothes. Certain items are strictly prohibited, such as weapons, oversized luggage, and alcohol.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Important Information

Meeting the starting point behind Casa da Música, where a Green Dacia Jogger Van awaits, is essential for this tour.

Participants should bring their passport or ID, as well as comfortable shoes and clothes, to ensure a pleasant experience.

The tour has several restrictions, such as:

1. No weapons, oversized luggage, smoking, or outside food and drinks are allowed on the vehicle.
2. Non-folding wheelchairs, strollers, alcohol, drugs, plastic bottles, and party groups are also prohibited.
3. Unaccompanied minors and feeding of animals aren’t permitted.
4. Fireworks and strong fragrances should be avoided.

These guidelines help maintain the safety and sustainability of the Gerís in a Sustainable Way experience.

Getting to the Starting Point

Travelers convene behind Casa da Música, where a Green Dacia Jogger Van stands ready to whisk them away on their Gerês in a Sustainable Way adventure.

The group gathers, passport or ID in hand, ready to embark on a journey through the greenest area of Portugal. The meeting point is easy to find, and the team ensures a smooth start to the tour.

From here, the van departs, carrying participants towards the Peneda-Gerês National Park and the starting point of their immersive exploration of this remarkable region.

Accommodation and Meals

After arriving at the meeting point, participants embark on their journey to the Peneda-Gerês National Park.

The first day includes an overnight stay at a historic convent, where travelers can experience the tranquility of monastic life.

On the second day, they visit an 11th-century monastery that has been used by the Benedictine order since the 16th century.

Throughout the trip, participants enjoy:

1. Local, sustainably-sourced meals and the region’s famous vinho verde wine.
2. Picturesque picnic settings amidst the lush, green landscapes.
3. Opportunities to sample traditional arts and crafts from the Alto Minho region.
4. Accommodations that prioritize comfort and eco-friendly practices.

Sustainability Practices

At the core of this sustainable Gerês experience lies a deep commitment to environmental preservation and cultural heritage.

The tour operators work closely with local communities to minimize the carbon footprint and protect the natural wonders of the Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Strict guidelines are in place to ensure responsible waste management, energy conservation, and the use of eco-friendly transportation.

Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions, supporting artisanal workshops and sampling organic produce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. According to the important information, the tour restricts bringing animals, as well as other items like weapons, drugs, and oversized luggage.

Is There an Option to Extend the Stay?

There is no option to extend the stay for this 2-day Gerês tour. The tour itinerary and duration are fixed, though participants can always book additional nights in the area independently after the tour ends.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour group size is not explicitly stated in the information provided. However, the inclusions and restrictions indicate the tour may not be suitable for large groups, as it specifies no party groups are allowed.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts or special offers. Prices start from CZK 12,062 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour itinerary is generally fixed, but you can customize certain aspects to suit your preferences. Contact the tour operator to discuss any changes you’d like to make within the tour’s constraints.

Recap

Exploring Gerês in a sustainable way provides an immersive experience that showcases the region’s natural beauty while respecting its cultural heritage. By prioritizing eco-friendly practices, travelers can enjoy guided tours, savor locally-sourced meals, and sample renowned vinho verde while minimizing their environmental impact. This approach allows visitors to appreciate the rich traditions and vibrant ecosystems of Gerês thoughtfully and responsibly.

You can check if your dates are available here: