516 Arouca Bridge and Paiva Walkways Tour: Experience UNESCO Geopark from Porto
5.0
13 Ratings
Arouca
Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Porto to the Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark. Walk across the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge, explore the Paiva Walkways, and indulge in traditional cuisine.
Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • 516 Arouca - Ponte Suspensa - Prepare for the most exciting 516 meters of your life on the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge, one of the longest suspension pedestrian bridges in the world. Be suspended by Tibetan-style steel cables in the sky, 175 meters above River Paiva and Aguieiras Waterfall.
    Feel as though you’re walking in the air, immersing yourself in an imposing landscape of wild and stunning nature. If you want a more laid-back experience, be transferred to the other side of the bridge by a 4x4.
  • Passadicos do Paiva - Walk along the Paiva Walkways, stop at scenic viewpoints to snap photos. See the famous zig-zag staircases, riparian forests, waterfalls, and cliffs of the gorge. Halfway through, take a break at Vau River Beach and restore your energy with some traditional snacks, juice, and fresh fruits.
    On hot days, take a dip in the river. From here to the end of the trail, get closer to the river. Feel the strength of the rapids through their roaring sounds. After the hike, be driven to the mountain area of Arouca.
  • Arouca Geopark - The Arouca Geopark, it’s a classified territory recognized by UNESCO from 2009, that gathers 41 Geosites within an area of 328 square kilometers. It defines Arouca as a territory with a special Geological Heritage, where you can find phenomena such as “Birthing Stones” and “Giant Trilobite Fossils” that are unique on the world and others like “Frecha da Mizarela”, the highest waterfall in mainland Portugal, the “Corn Bread Stones” or the “Union Stones”, and some more amazing attractions!
What's Included
  • Interpretative Guide along the walk
  • Lunch
  • Personal Accident Insurance
  • Snacks
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Tickets to the Paiva Walkways and the 516 Arouca Bridge
  • All fees and/or taxes
  • Photo Report
Additional Information

Embark on an amazing adventure from Porto with convenient transport to the Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark. Start the trek along ancient village trails. Get ready for an exhilarating 516 meters on the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge, numbered among the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges. Experience the thrill of being held aloft by Tibetan-style steel wires, offering views from 175 meters over the Paiva River and Aguieiras Waterfall.

Kickstart your journey on the Paiva Walkways, stretching 8.7 km with wooden footpaths erected along the Paiva River Gorge’s cliffs. Discover the renowned zig-zag stairways, riverside woods, cascades, and precipices. Midway, pause at Vau River Beach and refuel with some local refreshments, juice, and fresh fruit.

Lastly, indulge yourself with a classic Arouquesa roasted veal served in a traditional restaurant (included in the ‘With Lunch’ option). For the sweet conclusion, savor some time-honored conventual pastries, in the vicinity of their birthplace, the Santa Maria de Arouca Monastery.

  • Pessoas com mobilididade reduzida
  • Crianças com menos de 6 anos
Location
516 Arouca - Ponte Suspensa
Canelas,
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(13 Ratings)
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Frejabf
Apr 22, 2024
A must do tour! - Amazing trip and very recommendable! Our guide João knew a lot about the area, and he had many interesting things to tell about the nature, history, and biology. The tour was filled with beautiful views both before and after passing the big bridge, which was such an experience! Our driver Pedro was very pleasant and helpful the whole day through. His driving was pleasant (which is not always a matter of course we’ve learned) so it was much appreciated! He took us to the coffee shop and also made sure we had the time to see the monastery before leaving. Overall 5 out of 5 stars - more if possible. Thank you!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Cristinapp2796dg
Apr 21, 2024
Arouca 21.040.24 - A great experience, a great and friendly guide. She explained us a lot of things about the bridge and the area. A Very sympathetic and empathetic person.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Raony
Apr 10, 2024
Nature and structure of tourism - It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I had high expectations and they were still exceeded. The contact with nature and the recharge of life I had is exciting.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Explore601868
Apr 9, 2024
Great experience with a great guide - A superb getaway from start to finish. Our guide was waiting for us with backpacks containing sweet and savory snacks, an apple, juice and water... and... ponchos, very useful given the weather. As it was raining we didn't have anyone, the ride is magnificent. Our guide adapted to our pace and as we were a small group of 4 it was perfect. Black guide was taking photos of us and shared them with us for free. Nice meal and dessert. THANKS !!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
O4962jcahmeda
Apr 8, 2024
Magnificent Views - Excellent experience.. I thought the bridge would be the highlight of the trip… but the view and the hike by the river is so magnificent.. and our guide she was so kind and super friendly
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jamagnusson
Apr 7, 2024
Paiva Bridge 516 and Walkway - This trip was the highlight of my trip! Our driver, Segio, was so accommodating and friendly. He tried very hard with his English and did a great job! I found our guudes, Joa and Innes were so easy going and knowledgeable! The trip was wonderful and I thoroughly recommend this to anyone wanting a bit of adventure. I also recommend taking the lunch option. It was delicious and worth every cent!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
887gregoryb
Apr 2, 2024
Do - Exceptional. To do again with the same guide. Magnificent landscapes. Thank you João for this wonderful day. Anne and Pascal
Review provided by Tripadvisor
887gregoryb
Apr 2, 2024
To empty - Amazing; great experience. To do again without hesitation with the same guide. Thank you João for this wonderful day. Anne and Pascal
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Explorer43763707694
Mar 29, 2024
Great day! - We had an amazing day today. Excellent guide who explained everything and mostly made us feel relaxed. The bridge and its views were incredible. The walkways were also great. We definitely got our steps in. We would recommend adding the lunch and transportation options to the reservation.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Shawn_s
Dec 10, 2023
Worth every Penny - João is a veteran tour guide. The walk to the Bridge through a small village was lovely. The Bridge and walkways are breathtaking. After the tour, you return to Arouca for an amazing late lunch.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
May 2024
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