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Camino de Santigo - The Roman road in Peneda-Gerês National Park
Discover the Camino da Geira e dos Arrieiros in Peneda-Gerês
The Geira Roman Road, also known as Via Nova, is an ancient Roman route that historically connected Bracara Augusta (modern-day Braga, Portugal) to Asturica Augusta (now Astorga, Spain). Constructed around 80 AD, this stone-paved road spans approximately 318 kilometers, with a significant portion traversing the Peneda-Gerês National Park.
Within the park, the Geira Roman Road is remarkably well-preserved, offering hikers a unique opportunity to walk along paths that have remained largely unchanged for nearly two millennia. The route is adorned with numerous milestones (known locally as “miliários”), which were used by the Romans to mark distances. These ancient markers provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to experience a piece of Roman engineering and history firsthand.
The Peneda-Gerês National Park is home to the historic Roman Road (Geira), a remarkable ancient trail that now forms part of the Camino da Geira e dos Arrieiros, a lesser-known route of the Camino de Santiago. This scenic pilgrimage path combines the breathtaking landscapes of Peneda-Gerês with the rich history of the Roman Empire, offering travelers an unforgettable journey through Portugal’s only national park. Whether you’re walking for spiritual reasons or to connect with nature and history, this trail is a unique and enriching experience.
Itinerary
Hiking the Roman Road (Geira) in Peneda-Gerês National Park: 2 days Itinerary
Start: Santa Cruz | End: Portela do Homem
Day 1: Santa Cruz to Campo do Gerês
- Distance: ~12 km
- Highlights:
- Santa Cruz Village: Start your hike in the peaceful village of Santa Cruz, an ideal place to connect with the local culture and history.
- Roman Mile Markers (Miliários) 1 to 8: Follow the ancient Roman road and discover well-preserved milestones that showcase the engineering brilliance of the Roman Empire.
- Scenic Trails and Nature: Enjoy a hike through serene trails surrounded by lush greenery, crystal-clear streams, and picturesque landscapes.
- Campo do Gerês: Arrive at the charming village of Campo do Gerês, known for its traditional architecture and close proximity to the Vilarinho das Furnas reservoir. Visit the Ethnographic Museum to learn about local history and heritage.
Day 2: Campo do Gerês to Mata de Albergaria to Portela do Homem
- Distance: ~15 km
- Highlights:
- Vilarinho das Furnas Reservoir: Walk along the impressive dam and take in views of the partially submerged ruins of the ancient village of Vilarinho das Furnas, a must-see for history and nature lovers.
- Mata de Albergaria Forest: Explore the breathtaking Mata de Albergaria, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This lush oak forest is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for hikers and photographers.
- Roman Mile Markers 9 to 14: Continue along the Roman road, encountering more mile markers that remind you of the ancient route’s significance.
- Portela do Homem: End your journey at Portela do Homem, a stunning spot near the Portuguese-Spanish border. Relax by natural waterfalls or take a refreshing dip in the clear mountain waters.
What´s included?
- Transfers
- Local English-speaking guide
- Pic-nic Lunch
- 1 Dinner
- 1 Night accommodation
- Water
- Personal accident insurance
- All fees in the Park
- Gratuities
What to bring to Penda-Gerês National Park day tour?
- Comfortable clothes
- Comfortable footwear
- Sun screen
- Beach towel (summer)
- Hat
- Rain jacket (winter)
- Hiking poles (if have knee or back problems)
- Snacks
- Camera
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