High up in the heart of Alto Minho lies one of the most sought-after walkways by adventurers from all corners of the globe: the Sistelo Walkways. Located in Arcos de Valdevez, they are a true landmark of the region, attracting thousands of visitors every year… And you’ve probably walked them already, right?
But if you think you’ve seen all the charms of the Vez River, think again! Today, we introduce you to the Lagoas do Vez Walkways. Recently inaugurated, these walkways lead you through the river’s more remote and wild areas, guiding you to tunning lagoons perfect for a swim on warmer days.
Backpack on and ready for a nature-filled adventure? Take a peaceful walk along the Lagoas do Vez and get ready for some unforgettable days surrounded by Minho’s breathtaking landscapes. And the best part? It’s all just minutes away from Quinta Lamosa, the perfect accommodation for those who want to explore without rushing.
Join us — we’ll tell you everything about the new Lagoas do Vez Walkways.
Lagoas do Vez Walkways
The wooden trail follows one of the wildest and most pristine stretches of the Vez River. It’s precisely these hidden corners of the river that allow us to reach its natural lagoons!
Always tracing the right bank of the river, the walkway connects Poço das Caldeiras River Beach, in Loureda, to São Sebastião, in the parish of Cabreiro. It’s a low-difficulty linear route, making it accessible to most walkers.
With no steep inclines, the walkways are ideal for family outings, including children and pets, and are also suitable for people with reduced mobility. As for access to the lagoons, that is done via staircases.
If this walk feels like just a warm-up, the region has even more in store for you. Why? Because although newly opened, this trail is part of a larger route that has already won over hikers from all across the country: the Ecovia do Vez. And if you follow the Ecovia all the way to the village of Sistelo, you’ll also reach the famous Sistelo Walkways!
The Ecovia do Vez
Regarded as one of the most beautiful and unique greenways in Portugal, the Ecovia do Vez is a 32 km trail that runs along the Vez River.
Starting from the Lagoas do Vez Walkway, you can easily continue your journey by following the Ecovia do Vez until you reach the Sistelo Walkways. This stretch covers around 8 km one way (or 16 km round trip).
Best Lagoons in Gerês
One of the most sought-after attractions in the Peneda-Gerês National Park (PNPG) are its lagoons. Scattered throughout the mountains, the Gerês lagoons are little natural paradises, perfect for refreshing swims on hot days.
Besides the Lagoas do Vez, there are many more worth exploring.
Sistelo Lagoons
The Sistelo Lagoons can be found along the trail that connects the village of Sistelo to the Ecovia do Vez. While they’re not the most popular for swimming, they make this area one of the most photogenic spots in Alto Minho. It’s a highly sought-after destination for hiking, offering several rest areas and pure contact with nature.
Soajo Lagoons
Wilder but still easily accessible, reaching the Soajo Lagoons is a true adventure. But once you arrive, you’re greeted with an idyllic landscape, surrounded by cold, crystal-clear waterfalls, nestled between rocks and lush vegetation. To access the beautiful and unique Travanca Lagoon, there’s a wooden walkway that winds through the enchanted forest of the Peneda-Gerês National Park.
Here are some of the Soajo Lagoons, all just minutes away from Quinta Lamosa Ecoturismo:
- Poço Bento
- Poço Negro
- Poço das Canejas
- Travanca Lagoon
Gerês Waterfalls
The Gerês waterfalls are absolutely breathtaking. Unlike the more hidden lagoons, many of these falls have become iconic landmarks of the region — unmissable for any visitor. Make sure to include these in your itinerary:
- Portela do Homem Waterfall
- Arado Waterfall
- Tahiti Waterfall
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Tahiti Waterfall
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Arado Waterfall
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Portela do Homem Waterfall
Begin your Gerês adventure just a 30-minute drive from Quinta Lamosa — an excellent starting point for anyone planning a day or two exploring the wildest side of the Peneda-Gerês National Park. The best part? At the end of the day, you can always return to the comfort and tranquillity of Arcos de Valdevez.
Activities in Gerês
After exploring the Lagoas do Vez and soaking in the serenity of the walkway, there’s still much more to discover — all just around the corner. Just a few minutes away, Mezio becomes the perfect launching point for a day full of outdoor activities, including yoga or Reiki sessions in the gardens of Quinta Lamosa Ecoturismo.
Porta do Mezio
One of the main entrances to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, located in Arcos de Valdevez. This is where a true journey into the heart of Gerês begins: you’ll find viewpoints with stunning vistas, themed gardens, walking trails, interactive exhibitions, and even a 30 meter observation tower. It’s a fantastic place to start if you want to learn more about the region’s wildlife, flora, and traditions.
Biological Park
Perfect for families and nature lovers, the Biological Park offers direct contact with native species such as deer, wild boars, and foxes. It’s also an educational space, with various activities designed to raise awareness about Gerês’ biodiversity and environmental balance.
Adventure Park
If you’re looking for adrenaline, the Adventure Park is the right choice. Here, you can push your limits on tree-top courses, climbing walls, suspended bridges, and even zip lines. It’s an ideal program for groups, families, or couples looking to add a bit of thrill to their time in nature.
Curious to learn more? Check out our article Nature Activities in Mezio National Park.
Gastronomy in Arcos de Valdevez
After a day immersed in nature — between crystal-clear lagoons, wooden walkways, and adventures in Mezio — it’s time to savour the very best the region has to offer: the traditional cuisine of Arcos de Valdevez.
You simply can’t visit Alto Minho without trying two of its most iconic dishes: the Oven-Roasted Goat, slowly cooked with potatoes and baked rice, and the Traditional Arcos-Style Stew (Cozido à Moda de Arcos), a rich combination of meats, local sausages, and fresh vegetables. These are recipes passed down through generations, prepared with care and proudly served in local restaurants.
But there’s more to discover at the table — from convent-style sweets to delicacies made with honey, chestnuts, and cornbread, Arcos de Valdevez is a true journey of flavours.
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Oven-Roasted Goat
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Traditional Arcos-Style Stew
Accommodation in Arcos de Valdevez
Time to rest! After all these adventures, there’s only one thing left to complete the experience: a place where you can rest in comfort while staying in perfect harmony with nature.
Quinta Lamosa offers exactly that — and more: a peaceful haven in the heart of Arcos de Valdevez, nestled between the mountains and the river. With accommodations designed for families, couples, or solo travellers, everything here invites you to slow down. The gentle sound of the river lulls you at the end of the day, and the warm welcome you receive will make you feel right at home.
Our houses are fully equipped for a unique stay, and the surrounding environment provides the perfect backdrop to unwind and relax. You can even sleep in a Tree House! Read our article Treehouse Stay in Gerês to learn all about this one-of-a-kind experience.
Breakfast, a Pool, and Green Spaces — Perfect for Family Memories (Even with Four-Legged Friends!). Without giving up modern comfort and well-being, Quinta Lamosa blends seamlessly into the unique landscape of Alto Minho, ready to offer you a stay that you’ll remember for years to come.
Want to know more about our accommodation options in Gerês? Don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Whether you come for the lagoons, the hikes, or simply to breathe the pure Gerês air, Quinta Lamosa is the perfect place to start — and end — your journey through the very best that Minho has to offer.
Will you accept the invitation? Come visit us — we’re waiting for you!
Quinta Lamosa – Your place in nature.