The best walks and hikes around Covide

There are over 150 hiking routes available around Covide, catering to various skill levels. This includes 32 easy routes, 80 moderate routes, and 38 difficult routes, ensuring options for every hiker.

Hikes around Covide, located within the Peneda-Gerês National Park, feature diverse terrain including lush greenery, dense forests, and dramatic granite formations. You'll find trails ranging from easy walks through varied landscapes to moderate paths exploring ancient Roman roads and more challenging routes with significant elevation changes, often leading to panoramic views.

Yes, the region is rich in waterfalls and natural pools. You can explore areas like the stunning Poço Azul (Blue Pool), known for its varied and fun hikes, or the beautiful Fecha de Barjas Waterfall (Tahiti), which offers natural bathing facilities. Other notable waterfalls include Cascata do Arado and Pincães Waterfall.

Absolutely. Many trails offer access to historical sites and breathtaking views. For instance, the Roman Milestone XXVI – Fenda da Calcedónia loop from Covide takes you past an ancient Roman milestone and the impressive Fenda da Calcedónia gorge. You can also find routes leading to viewpoints like Curvaceira, the highest point in the immediate area, or the Pedra Bela Viewpoint, offering expansive vistas.

Yes, Covide offers several easy routes suitable for families. These trails often lead through varied landscapes and provide access to scenic spots without demanding too much effort. For example, the Junceda Viewpoint – Cabeça de Pedra loop from Gerês is an easy 6.1 km trail that can be completed in under two hours.

Peneda-Gerês National Park generally allows dogs on trails, provided they are kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. It's always a good idea to check specific trail regulations or local signage, especially in more sensitive natural areas.

Yes, many of the trails around Covide are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the View of the Rio Homem Reservoir – Campo do Gerês Roman Road loop from Campo do Gerês and the Junceda Viewpoint – Junceda Viewpoint loop from Gerês.

The hiking trails in Covide are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,200 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of landscapes, and the opportunities to connect with the Peneda-Gerês National Park's unique environment.

The best time for hiking in Covide is typically during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is milder and the landscapes are particularly vibrant. Summer can be hot, but offers opportunities for refreshing dips in natural pools. Winter can bring cooler temperatures and sometimes rain, but trails are generally accessible.

Yes, the area around Covide has a rich history, with trails that follow ancient Roman paths. The View of the Rio Homem Reservoir – Campo do Gerês Roman Road loop from Campo do Gerês incorporates parts of an ancient Roman road. Additionally, you can explore the ruins of Vilarinho da Furna, an old village submerged in 1971, which can be seen depending on water levels near the Vilarinho da Furna Dam.

While some popular spots like the Seven Lagoons Trail can attract crowds, the Peneda-Gerês National Park offers a vast network of trails. To find less crowded options, consider exploring some of the moderate or difficult routes, or venturing out during off-peak seasons. Many trails lead through remote forests and offer a serene experience away from the main tourist hubs.