Here you have 15 things you should know about Paiva Walkways before you go in an adventure through this amazing place.
In the Arouca municipality, located in the North of Portugal there’s a crown jewel to eco-travellers, the Paiva Walkways. This is a must-do visit if you love nature. You will be taking through a biologic, geologic and archeologic journey in a natural sanctuary. Expect to see some quartz crystals and Europe endangered species.
Before you visit Paiva Walkways, where’s 15 things you should know:
In the breath-taking landscape along the Paiva River, this walkway was designed in dialogue with nature, morphology and panoramic views.
- Paiva Walkways are also part of Arouca Geopark.
- Paiva Walkways extends for 8km, you can visit between sunrise and sunset. The schedule is from 7:30 to 20:00 from April to October and from 09:00 to 17:00 from November to March.
- Since 13 of February 2016, you have to pay 1 euro to entry in Paiva Walkways. Therefore it’s better to book online, only 3500 were allowed per day.
- It is forbidden the entry of animals and even prams, please avoid making noises and attitudes that disturb the local peace.
- There are emergency phones along the way, so if you are not feeling well contact the authorities.
- Wear comfortable shoes and appropriated clothing.
- Bring water with you, the trail can be a lit bit demanding.
- Do not damage nature, don’t throw litter away and do not collect plants or rock samples.
- You can enjoy shaded areas along the route and take a chance to do a picnic, one option is at the Vau beach.
- If your physical level is not so good, choose the route Areinho – Espiunca, it’s less demanding.
- There is a parking lot at Areinho beach, in Canelas. If you want some food or water you have a bar there too.
- There are small coffee shops at the entry (or end) both sides of the walkways.
- If you only want to do one away there are taxi’s at the end of each route, the price is around 10€/15€.
- Among other awards, Paiva Walkways was elected in December of 2018 World Leading Adventure Tourist Attraction at World Travel Awards.
- Next year, Paiva River will have the longest pedestrian suspended bridge in Portugal. The bridge was inspired by Inca bridges that crossed the deep valleys and mountains of the Andes. Do not go if you have fear of heights because it’s a glazed bridge with 150 meters high, the same as 50 floors.
Book a Tour to Paiva Walkways
If you want to see more photos of Paiva walkways, check out our still & motions.
For more pieces of information visit the official site: passadicosdopaiva.pt
Gps Coordinates:
Espiunca
40°59’34.67″N 8°12’41.19″W
Areinho
40°57’9.68″N 8°10’33.05″W
16 Responses
Only 1 Euro for entry? That is SUCH a bargain, especially when many other monuments charge 10-20 Euros! We were in Portugal this past summer but we didn’t make it this far north – next time we will have to add Paiva Walkways to the list!
The 1 Euro fee is only to help maintain the local. This is a walkway in Nature, one of the crown jewels of Portugal, the views are amazing.
I like the featured image! And yes, one more reason to visit to Portugal. Good to see how things are constructed in harmony with nature.
I really want to do this walk but didn’t part of the Passadiço burn down during the Portugal on Fire 2017 Summer Edition? T_T
Hi Diana. Part of the Passadiço burn in 2016 but now they are repaired and fully opening.
For me walking tour are best way to explore any destination. Walking tours gives you deep information about the place and you experience a place in a great way. Paiva seems a great place to visit for me. pics are awesome and your detailed information will be so helpful. Thanks
Wow that walkway seems wonderful. It must be a great expierience walking through such a stunning nature! I can’t wait to visit Portugal one day and I would definetly would love to take that walk!
I can’t believe it’s only 1euro entry! So cheap compared to other areas in Europe, if I ever visit Portugal I will have to check out this beautiful place!
I love visiting places that allow visitors to enjoy the surroundings while respecting nature, and this place looks amazing! I wasn’t able to see any pictures when I went to Stills & Motions, but that may have been an error on my end? Either was, I’m really excited to add this place to my Portugal itinerary!
wow thats cool! I know my kids would love this track … we are planning to spent the first weeks of our worldtrip in the north of Spain and Portugal, so your post is really coming in handy. Good to know as well that you can do only one-way as well and take a taxi back. Thanks for sharing
I personally enjoy walking and this one seems perfect. Added it to my to-do list. Thanks!
How would this be for someone with a fear of heights?
Hi Molly, This place doesn’t have many high zones. The walkway is safe and if you have afraid of heights just don´t go to the edge and look down.
I like the fact that there are emergency phones along the walkway…very important. Nice tips, and photo. The charges are equally fair!
That is so cool… my family love this … we are planning to a trip to Portugal in December wonder if it is open then
Yes, you can go in December, it´s colder but you can enjoy it also. It’s open all year and in Portugal, the weather normally is sunny and cold in December.