From Porto: 516 Arouca Bridge and Paiva Walkways Guided Tour

Start your adventure from Porto with transportation to Arouca. Begin the hike through old village paths. 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. Set off on the Paiva Walkways, an wooden walkway built along the cliffs of the Paiva River. Halfway through, we will rest at Vau River Beach, on hot days, the river invites you to take a refreshing dip, so bring a swimsuit! After the walk, treat yourself with a charming stop in the town of Arouca, where you can enjoy a drink and typical meal — a traditional Arouquesa roasted veal with a drink of your choice (wine included!). For those who prefer the vegetarian option, we offer a rich and flavorful vegetable feijoada, served with white rice. At dessert, taste some ancient conventual pastry.

Itinerary

1. 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. (1h 0min) Admission included
2. 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. (3h 0min) Admission included
3. 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!

Meeting & end point