Our most recommended things to do in Espiunca, Portugal

From Porto: Arouca 516 and Paiva Walkways Guided Day Trip

1. From Porto: Arouca 516 and Paiva Walkways Guided Day Trip

Discover the beauty of the Paiva river and gorge on as you hike along the Paiva Walkways and experience the thrill of crossing the 516 Arouca suspension bridge on this guided tour with hotel pickup and drop-off in Porto. Indulge in some local fare with the included lunch at a restaurant.  Starting from Porto, you be picked up in an air-conditioned van and relax on the drive through the Portuguese countryside. Enjoy a short rest stop in Arouca where you have the chance to purchase a snack in this town that is known for its sweets.  Reach Areinho and enter the Paiva Walkways and start your journey by climbing a stairway of around 300 steps and reach the incredible 516 Arouca bridge which is at an elevation of about 175 meters above the Paiva River. Learn about local culture from your guide along the way. Admire views of the Aguieira Waterfall and Paiva River as you cross this stunning bridge. Continue your journey following the path of Paiva Walkways as it follows the flow of the river. Walk at your own pace, take in the lush vegetation, and try to spot wildlife like birds.  Relax at Vau beach mid-way through the hike and carry on all the way to Espiunca, where our hiking ends. From Espiunca travel to a restaurant in Alvarenga where you can try “Arouquesa” DPO beef (other non-meat options available).End your day with a comfortable ride back to your hotel in Porto.

Alvarenga: Paiva Walkways and 516 Arouca Bridge Guided Tour

2. Alvarenga: Paiva Walkways and 516 Arouca Bridge Guided Tour

Pedestrian route through the 8 Km that make up the award-winning Paiva walkways, complemented by the adventurous cross of the largest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world, 516 Arouca. The 516 Arouca bridge is the largest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world and is located in Arouca, in the Aveiro district, Portugal. With 516 meters in length and an elevation of 175 meters, it connects the banks of the Paiva River. While crossing the bridge, you will have a breathtaking view over Garganta do Paiva and Cascata das Aguieiras, both sites of the UNESCO Arouca Geopark territory. 516 Arouca Bridge is located in Arouca, next to the famous Passadiços do Paiva. Along the way, you will be able to interpret the main points of geological interest, such as the Paiva Gorge, the Aguieiras waterfall, the beautiful river beach of Vau, the Gola do Salto or the Espiunca fault, without forgetting the aspects of biodiversity. In the latter case, hopefully, you might even see otters.

ECO Tour Arouca 516 Bridge and Paiva Walkways

3. ECO Tour Arouca 516 Bridge and Paiva Walkways

Experience Arouca's Hidden Gem Private Tour of Arouca 516 Bridge and Breathtaking Passadiços do Paiva Walking Tour. Embark on an unforgettable journey that will take you deep into the heart of natural beauty in Arouca. Our exclusive private tour offers an enchanting combination of adventure and awe-inspiring sights, showcasing the captivating Arouca 516 Bridge and the mesmerizing Passadiços do Paiva. Where Dreams Meet Reality Imagine standing atop the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world – the Arouca 516 Bridge. As you step onto this marvel of engineering, suspended high above the Paiva River, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas that seem to stretch to the horizon. The sensation of walking amidst the clouds, with the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant rush of the river below, is a moment that words cannot truly capture. Our knowledgeable guide will share the history and fascinating stories behind the bridge's creation, allowing you to fully appreciate the significance of this architectural wonder. Passadiços do Paiva: A Nature Lover's Paradise From the heights of the Arouca 516 Bridge, we'll descend into the lush embrace of Passadiços do Paiva – a true haven for nature enthusiasts. As you traverse the elevated wooden walkways that wind through the breathtaking Paiva Gorge, you'll be surrounded by the symphony of cascading waterfalls, rustling leaves, and the gentle babbling of the river. Every step offers a new perspective of this natural wonderland, with striking rock formations, serene pools, and the lush greenery of the Arouca Geopark. Tailored Experience: Our tour is designed to cater to your preferences and interests, ensuring you get the most out of your visit. Exclusive Insights: Our experienced guide will provide in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and ecological significance of the Arouca region. Intimate Exploration: Unlike crowded group tours and skip the line priority, you'll have the tranquility and space to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings. Comfort and Convenience: We take care of all the logistics, leaving you free to enjoy every moment without worry. Capture memories that last a lifetime Whether you're an adventurer, a nature lover, or simply seeking an extraordinary experience, our private tour to Arouca 516 Bridge and Passadiços do Paiva promises to leave you spellbound. This is your chance to connect with the wonder of the natural world and marvel at human ingenuity. Join us on this incredible journey and create memories that will stay with you forever. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this exceptional adventure. Secure your spot on our private tour of Arouca's hidden treasures. Let's explore, discover, and create unforgettable memories together. Your tour will start with a pickup at your hotel in Porto at 8:30 AM and will end around 7:00 PM at same local. Around 2 PM a picnic is served and a well-deserved rest on a river beach where you can bathe will arrive.

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What people are saying about Espiunca, Portugal

Overall rating

4.9 / 5

based on 57 reviews

The walkways was a novel way to tour the geopark. Though quite long at 8 kms, we were not so exhausted as the wooden structures were nicely built. There were some uphill climbing but they were manageable. The bridge was awesome! It was a bit frightening at first but once you get the hang of it (pun intended) it’s like walking an ordinary footbridge with a spectacular view all around. The walk back was a lot easier. Our guide at the bridge did a wonderful job assuring us about the safety of crossing. I would definitely recommend this to those who are seeking a different way of exploring nature. Our guide Joao Pacheco of Detours was nice and kind enough to help my elderly aunt on the walkways. And the lunch was sumptuous and really filling too!

Was a great day! Pick up was prompt. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable and provided us with lots of great information. The included lunch was outstanding. to top things off our guide was a fantastice driver whih is always nice on winding roads.

Good transportation and excellent meals. Crossing the bridge was a spectacular experience and the hiking was along a well maintained and beautiful path. Our guide knowledge, competent, and very friendly. We had a wonderful day.

When you arrive at the bridge , there are guides to explain the history. Then it’s nice to be on your own timeline and hike the pathways , to meet with the group at the end . Lunch was so nice too

Everything was great from the beginning. Andre drove us safely to our destination and was very pleasant.