Arouca is a town located in northern Portugal, known for its stunning natural landscapes, history, cultural heritage, and geological diversity.

Arouca is part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, with the Arouca Geopark offering visitors the opportunity to explore various trails and discover incredible rock formations, fossils, and endless green landscapes.

One of Arouca’s wonders is Frecha da Mizarela Waterfall, the highest in the region. The water cascades dramatically down a cliff, and the surrounding area offers hiking trails, providing the chance to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature in its purest form.

Another fantastic location we will be visiting is Pedras Parideiras, a fascinating geological site in the Serra da Freita. These rocks naturally split into smaller pieces, a unique phenomenon in the region.

Next, we will head to the Miradouro de São Pedro Velho, also in Freita, offering a superb panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.

Then, the journey continues to the historic center of Arouca, where we will taste traditional conventual sweets made with eggs and sugar, such as Pão-de-Ló de Arouca, and the region’s cheese.

By late morning, we will conclude with a visit to the Convento de Arouca, a historic 10^th-century monastery and an important example of religious architecture in Portugal. The Convento de Arouca also houses a rich collection of art and historical artifacts. It is a peaceful place to explore and learn about the history of Arouca.

After the visit to the convent, we will enjoy a delicious traditional Posta Arouquesa (regional dish) at a typical restaurant.

In the afternoon, we will explore the Passadiços do Paiva, one of the region’s most famous tourist attractions. This impressive and award-winning wooden structure follows the course of the Paiva River, offering visitors some of the most beautiful landscapes in Arouca. The bravest will even have the opportunity to cross the Ponte 516 Arouca, the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, measuring 516 meters long and 175 meters high, connecting both banks of the Paiva River.

At the end of the day, we will return to Porto.