Peneda Geres Wilderness 

Peneda-Gerês Wilderness, located in the northwest of Portugal, is a unique and fascinating destination for nature lovers. This Wilderness is imbedded in Peneda-Gerês National Park, which is spread over an area of around 70,000 hectares. The whole area and particularly Wilderness is home to a wide range of terrain, including granite mountains, deep valleys, and pristine rivers.

Rugged Wilderness landscape

The park is home to several mountain ranges, including the Serra do Gerês, which is the highest mountain range in the park, and the Serra da Peneda, which is characterized by its granite peaks and ancient glacial valleys.

One of the most striking features of Peneda-Gerês Wilderness is its rugged terrain. It is characterized by steep slopes, rocky outcrops, and high peaks. Pristine rivers cut through the massive rocky blocks and creates number of smaller waters and water pools. 

The highest peak in the area, called Pico da Nevosa, reaches an altitude of 1 545 meters. It is magnet for hikers and climbers and providing nice panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Unique wildlife

The park and particularly Wilderness is also home to an incredible range of flora and fauna. The landscape is dominated by native species of trees such as oak, chestnut, and pine trees. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including wolves, wild boar, and otters. Bird watchers will also be impressed by the range of avian species that call the Wilderness home, including golden eagles, black storks, and peregrine falcons.

Long human history

The park’s rich history is also a major draw for visitors. The region has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and there is evidence of megalithic structures and settlements from the Bronze Age. The Romans also left their mark on the region, building roads and settlements throughout the area. 

In the Middle Ages, the region was dominated by castles and fortifications, and many of these structures still stand today. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the area was used for agriculture and logging, but in 1971, it was designated as a national park to protect its unique natural and cultural heritage. 

Peneda Geres Wilderness

Despite of long history of man impact on this land, the fragments of Wilderness survived to nowadays. In 2011 the 5 000 ha of Peneda-Gerês Wilderness become part of the European Wilderness Network. That area was subject of international audit and awarded by the Gold Wilderness Quality Standard.   

Exploring Wilderness

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the park, and there are numerous well-marked trails throughout the park. Particularly interesting is area of Wilderness. One of the most famous hikes is the “Trail of the Glacial Valleys,” which takeson

In conclusion, Peneda-Gerês National Park and particularly Wilderness is a remarkable destination that offers a glimpse into the rich natural and cultural heritage of Portugal. With its stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and fascinating history, this park and Wilderness is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty of the natural world.