Overview
Arouca is a great day trip from Porto, for two reasons – for the food of course (it’s Portugal after all), more specifically the meat (vitala assada) and a beautiful hike. For the former, head to Restaurant Parlamento or A Assembleia in town. For the latter, visit the nearby Arouca Geopark that offers a variety of scenic trails, with the Paiva Walkways being one of the most notable. The Paiva Walkways (Passadiços do Paiva) are an 8-kilometer long wooden boardwalk that runs along the Paiva River, providing stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape. This trail is particularly famous for its wooden walkways that wind up and down the hillsides and its suspension bridges, including the spectacular 516 Arouca Bridge, which is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world with its 516 meters, offering breathtaking views 175 meters above the Paiva River. The walk is linear and runs between the villages of Espiunca and Areínho, with notable spots like the Vau river beach, which is perfect for a refreshing swim. The trail also features information panels about the local geology and wildlife, giving the hike an educational aspect.
The Trail
First of all, make sure you have tickets before you start driving from Porto. You can purchase tickets directly from the official 516 Arouca Bridge websitewebsite. The cost for the combined visit to the 516 Arouca Bridge and the Paiva Walkways is typically around €12. If the suspension bridge is sold out, you might still be able to do the trek itself, there are more tickets for it than for the bridge (actually crossing the bridge is not that big of a deal, I can recommend only doing the hike). If all tickets are sold out on this website, but you need to go on a specific day, there might still be tickets available via a day tour from Porto. The bridge is open all year round, but it’s best to check for any closures due to adverse weather conditions. If you have booked in advance you will be informed via email and text message if there are any changes.
Difficulty
The Paiva Walkways hike is considered moderate in difficulty. The full hike covers approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) one way. The trail has significant elevation changes, particularly near the Areínho end where there is a steep hill. The overall elevation gain is about 600 meters (1,969 feet). The trail consists of wooden boardwalks, dirt paths, and some rocky sections. While the boardwalks make much of the trail accessible, some parts are uneven and can be slippery, especially after rain. Hikers with a reasonable level of fitness should be able to complete the trail without major issues, and it is a safe trail for kids too.
Detailed Description of the Paiva Walkways Hike
The Paiva Walkways (Passadiços do Paiva) is an 8-kilometer hike along the Paiva River in the Arouca Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark. This linear trail runs between the villages of Espiunca and Areínho, offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and unique geological formations. The hike typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours one way, depending on your pace and stops.
Your starting point can either be Espiunca or Areínho. Starting from Espiunca allows you to end your hike at Areínho, where there are more facilities and opportunities for rest and refreshment. Starting from Areínho is recommended for those wanting to tackle the most challenging section (a big hill) early in the hike. If you don’t want to walk back on the same trail, you can take a ride in the back of a jeep back to where you are parked.
Suggested Itinerary: Start at Espiunca: Arrive early to secure parking and start the hike. —> Midway Break at Vau River Beach: Rest, swim, and enjoy a picnic. —> Cross the 516 Arouca Bridge: Experience the thrill and take photos. —> Continue to Areínho: Finish the hike at Areínho, rest at the café, and enjoy the river beach.
Major Milestones and Points of Interest
1. Espiunca Entrance: The trail begins with a gentle descent into the valley, following the wooden boardwalks along the Paiva River. The initial part is relatively easy, with shaded areas and scenic views of the river and surrounding flora.
2. Vau River Beach (Approx. 4 km from Espiunca): THis is a small, shaded river beach where you can rest, swim, or simply enjoy the tranquil environment. It’s a great halfway point for those starting from Espiunca. (Limited facilities are available, so it’s advisable to carry your own refreshments.)
3. 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge: The bridge spans 516 meters and is 175 meters above the Paiva River, offering spectacular views of the surrounding gorge and river. Crossing the bridge is a thrilling experience and provides excellent photo opportunities. (If you have a ticket for the bridge, make sure to adhere to your scheduled time slot!)
4. Aguieiras Waterfall: This picturesque waterfall is visible from the trail and is one of the natural highlights of the hike. The water cascades down rocks into the river, creating a serene and beautiful spot.
5. Gola do Salto: This section features narrow rock formations and rapids, showcasing the dynamic geological history of the area. Informational panels along the trail provide insights into the geological significance.
6. Areínho River Beach (Near the End): This river beach has better facilities, including a café where you can rest and enjoy refreshments. It’s a great spot to unwind after completing the hike.
Tips
– The trail is best visited during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Summer can be quite hot, making the hike more challenging, while winter can be slippery and dangerous due to rain.
– Reservations are required to hike the Paiva Walkways. It’s important to book your tickets in advance as the number of visitors per day is restricted.
– Wear sturdy footwear, bring water and snacks, and use sun protection due to limited shaded areas along the trail.
How to get there
By Car | The most convenient way to reach the Paiva Walkways is by car from Porto. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Porto. Take the A1 highway in the direction of Lisbon and then take exit 13 for Arouca. From there, follow the signs for Paiva Walkways. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak seasons, so arrive early to secure a spot!
By Public Transportation | There is no direct public transportation from Porto to the Paiva Walkways. However, you can take a train from Porto to Arouca and then a taxi to the walkways. The train ride to Arouca takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs around €8 per person. The taxi from Arouca to the walkways takes approximately 20 minutes and costs around €20
Guided Tours | Various guided tours are available that include transportation from Porto. These tours often include additional amenities like meals and a guide, making them a convenient and informative option. This way you also have a higher chance to walk over the suspension bridge, as individual tickets are often sold out.
