Hiking in Serra da Penha – Portugal

From July 26th to 28th, 2024, hikers from Slovakia, Hungary, Czechia, Romania, and Portugal gathered for a unique hiking mobility experience in Portugal. This event was part of the “Hike More” Erasmus+ Sport project and offered participants a blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.

The adventure began in Gerês National Park, one of Portugal’s most stunning natural reserves. On the first day, the group hiked from the village of Cabril to the Seven Lagoons, a series of interconnected lagoons and waterfalls sculpted by Mother Nature herself. The pristine waters of the lagoons invited everyone to take a refreshing dip and even dive from the rocks into the deep pools. The group spent several hours swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the magical atmosphere before hiking back to Cabril village.

The accommodation for the event was located in Serra da Penha, a picturesque hilltop area overlooking the historic city of Guimarães, the so-called birthplace of Portugal.

For the second day, the group began with some team-building exercises that strengthened their connections. After that, they hiked from the top of the Penha Mountains down to the city of Guimarães. There, they visited the iconic Castle of Guimarães, a symbol of Portugal’s origins, and explored the city’s ancient streets. They also visited the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, a magnificent building that tells the story of Portugal’s past. The group took time to play games in the gardens surrounding the castle, adding a playful touch to the day. The return hike, back up to the Penha Mountains, was a challenging but rewarding climb.

The final day began with some light stretching and sports activities, including volleyball and football, to warm up for the day’s hike. The group then set off to explore the unique features of the Penha Mountain region. They discovered giant rocks that seem to defy gravity, explored narrow passages on the famous “route of fear,” and paused at breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the city of Guimarães.

This hiking mobility in Portugal was more than just a physical journey; it was a cultural experience that captured the essence of Portuguese hiking – moving at a relaxed pace, savoring every view, and enjoying every moment. Despite the leisurely pace, the event was also intense in its focus on building connections, sharing experiences, and engaging in playful activities during the whole mobility period.

Participants formed strong bonds over the three days, creating a sense of community that felt like a small family by the end of the trip. The combination of hiking, cultural exploration, and shared experiences made this mobility a truly enriching experience for everyone involved.