Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Arouca

This full-day excursion to Arouca offers an immersive experience in a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The day begins with a thrilling walk across the 516 Arouca Pedestrian Suspension Bridge, an engineering marvel perched 175 meters above the Paiva River. Besides breathtaking views of cascades and surrounding cliffs, the bridge provides an exhilarating experience with its 127 independent metal walkways, creating a sensation of floating above the natural landscape. After this daring adventure, visitors have the opportunity to savor authentic local cuisine during lunch at a typical restaurant in Serra d'Arouca. This meal allows them to enjoy traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, many cultivated in the region for centuries. This moment of relaxation also offers a chance to discover Arouca's unique gastronomy and authentic flavors. The excursion continues with a visit to the famous Passadiços do Paiva, wooden walkways winding approximately 8 kilometers along the picturesque banks of the Paiva River. These pathways not only offer incredible panoramic views but also immerse visitors in pristine nature, abundant with flora and fauna. Visitors can admire the biodiversity and stunning landscapes while walking through this enchanting setting within the UNESCO Global Geopark. Arouca is also renowned for its slate houses, an architectural tradition dating back centuries. These homes, built with local materials like slate extracted from the surrounding mountains, are an integral part of the region's landscape and history. They reflect the ingenuity of the locals who utilized natural resources to create durable and aesthetically pleasing dwellings. If time permits, visitors may also have the opportunity to visit a picturesque village in the region, where they can further explore local culture and traditional architecture. Finally, the day concludes with an enriching visit to the Museum of Sacred Art and the Monastery of Santa Maria, located in the heart of downtown Arouca. The museum houses an impressive collection of historical religious artworks, offering a fascinating insight into the region's cultural and spiritual heritage. Visitors can delve into local history, discover unique artifacts, and understand the cultural and religious significance of this iconic site. Throughout the excursion, experienced guides accompany visitors, providing insights not only into the attractions visited but also into local history, culture, and geology. This day in Arouca promises an unforgettable experience, blending adventure, cultural discovery, and immersion in nature, in one of Portugal's hidden gems. Whether seeking thrills or a peaceful escape in nature, the 516 Arouca Bridge and its surrounding treasures offer lasting memories and a deeper understanding of this unique region.

Your heart will be full when you discover the Historic Center of Vila de Arouca. We invite you to go beyond the emblematic and imposing walls of the Arouca Monastery, visiting its Cloister, the Kitchen and one of the richest Iberian Museums of Sacred Art, learning about the experiences and stories that greatly influenced the socio-economy and gastronomy of the region. We continue with a visit to the Chapel of Santa Casa da Misericórdia, located in the multipurpose Praça Brandão de Vasconcelos, and conclude with a visit to the Calvary of Arouca, dating from the 17th and 18th centuries.