Hiking & Mindful Movement in Peneda-Gerês National Park

Difficulty

Moderate

Comfort

Midscale

Group size

2-8 tourists,
over 18 y.o.

A few days in the mountains unfold as a rhythm of movement, nature and quiet pauses, where each day naturally flows between activity and rest. The experience is shaped by guided activity in the mornings and unhurried time in between. It offers a balance of walking, yoga and time to slow down in a natural setting.

Set in the northwest of Peneda-Gerês National Park, Serra da Peneda reveals granite peaks, oak forests, river valleys, waterfalls, mountain hamlets and historic stone bridges, reflecting both wild scenery and long-standing cultural heritage. Accommodation is in restored stone houses in the Laboreiro valley, offering a quiet, intimate stay surrounded by forest and mountain views, with coffee, tea and fruit available throughout the day.

The program includes guided yoga sessions and hikes in a small group, combining time on the trails with space to rest and enjoy the surroundings. It is offered as a short-stay format, with a longer week option available for those who wish to spend more time in the mountains.

Forest Bathing Retreats

Anabela M. is the provider of this trip

The provider speaks: English, Portuguese

I am a retreat host, yoga teacher and nature guide based in the mountains of Peneda-Gerês National Park, in northern Portugal. My work is rooted in a deep love for nature, movement, simple living and meaningful human connection.

Before creating this project, I worked as an environmental journalist in Lisbon. Everything changed when I came to Peneda-Gerês to make a documentary about the Iberian wolf. After years of movement and noise, I felt the need to slow down and reconnect with simpler rhythms — walking, breathing, listening and spending more time outdoors.

This project grew from this personal transformation. Today, I create and host small-group retreats that combine yoga, hiking, mindful walking, horse connection, running-focused movement, restorative practices and nourishing vegetarian food. I also create retreats focused on women’s well-being, offering supportive spaces for rest, balance and reconnection during different stages of life, including menopause.

My approach is calm, personal and grounded.

Tour highlights

Guided Hiking Through Serra da Peneda

Explore some of the region’s most scenic trails, crossing oak forests, river valleys, mountain hamlets and panoramic viewpoints

Practice Yoga Daily

Build strength, flexibility and balance through guided yoga sessions designed to complement each day’s hiking experience

Waterfalls, Rivers and Natural Pools

Discover clear mountain waters and enjoy opportunities to swim and relax in peaceful natural settings

Route details

Arrive at the retreat venue and settle into your accommodation. The day begins with a welcome briefing, where you'll be introduced to the program and have the opportunity to meet your fellow participants. After some time to relax and unwind from your journey, join the group for a shared evening meal to start the retreat experience together.

Difficulty

Moderate

Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity

Tour provider's comments

This tour takes place on mountain terrain with uphill and downhill sections, uneven paths, and rocky or forest trails. Participants should be comfortable walking regularly and hiking on moderate mountain trails for several hours a day. Daily distances range from 5 km up to 14 km on Hiking and Yoga retreats.

Accommodation

Comfort

Midscale

Guest House

4 nights

Stay in a tiny stone hamlet lovingly restored into warm and comfortable guest houses. Surrounded by forest and mountain scenery, it’s a peaceful retreat where mornings begin with breathtaking sunrise views over the valley. Charming stone houses full of comfort and character create a cozy atmosphere, while a forest-side studio offers panoramic mountain views. The quiet natural surroundings are perfect for rest and relaxation, with coffee, tea, and fresh fruit available throughout your stay.