A Day of Adventure and Discovery

Our journey began bright and early, as we were picked up by our cheerful driver, Sergio, in a comfortable minivan. The kids were excited, and I was eager to see how this adventure would unfold. The drive to Arouca was scenic, with winding roads that offered glimpses of the lush Portuguese countryside. As we arrived at our starting point, we were greeted by Ines, our knowledgeable and friendly guide. She handed each of us a backpack filled with snacks and water, a thoughtful touch that I appreciated as a mom always thinking ahead.

The first leg of our adventure was a gentle 20-minute walk to the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge. Ines shared fascinating tidbits about the local flora and the history of Arouca, keeping the kids engaged and curious. As we approached the bridge, I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. Known as one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world, it promised an exhilarating experience. Despite my usual nervousness with heights, the bridge felt secure, and the breathtaking views of the Paiva River below were worth every step. The kids were thrilled, and even a light drizzle couldn’t dampen our spirits.

Exploring the Paiva Walkways

After our thrilling bridge crossing, Sergio was ready to whisk us away to the entrance of the Paiva Walkways. This custom-built wooden path runs alongside the stunning Paiva River, offering a 4.5 km journey through nature’s beauty. Ines continued to share her wealth of knowledge, pointing out unique geological features and local wildlife. The walk was invigorating, and the kids loved spotting different birds and plants along the way.

The walkways can be a bit slippery when wet, so I recommend wearing sturdy shoes. It’s a fair amount of walking, but the scenery is so captivating that you hardly notice the distance. We paused at several scenic viewpoints to take photos and simply soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. The sound of the river rushing by was a soothing backdrop to our adventure.

A Taste of Arouca

Our journey concluded with a delightful lunch at a local restaurant near the river. The menu offered a variety of options, and we indulged in some traditional Portuguese dishes that were both delicious and satisfying. After lunch, Sergio drove us into the charming town of Arouca, where we enjoyed coffee and sweets at a quaint café in the town square.

Sergio also took us to a small monastery, sharing a bit of its history and allowing us to explore its serene interior. It was a lovely way to end our day, and the kids were fascinated by the stories of the past. As we headed back to Porto, I reflected on the day’s experiences. Ines had captured beautiful photos throughout the day, which she kindly shared with us, providing lasting memories of our adventure.

This Arouca Adventure was a perfect blend of excitement, education, and relaxation, making it an ideal family outing. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a history buff, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. I highly recommend this tour for families looking to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Portugal.