Something off the beaten path - nature pure!

https://516arouca.pt/

Open since Thursday for residents, the worlds largest suspension bridge will open it is door to Portugal and the rest of the world on Monday (3 May 2021). It quietly has been built since May 2018. As always Portugal is keeping the best bits of its country secret – though not for long!

With 516m (1,693ft) length and 175m (574ft) above the river Paiva and some very pictures views you are indeed looking for a unique drill and experience.

It merely takes 10 minutes to cross, however it is not about the time, though views and the architectural master piece that has been build.

It is therefore estimated that any visit takes about 90min. Guides are available and give a brief introduction to the bridge and area in either Portuguese or English. 

Be aware tickets are timed. Children younger than 6 years are not allowed for safety reasons as are pets. The bridge is not seemed save for pets given the design of the pathway and it is also unknown if the height and construction could cause distress to our loved ones. Children between 6-17 years need to be accompanied by an adult. Neither smoking nor running is permitted on the bridge. Wear comfortable clothes to cross.

You can also walk on Paiva’s 8km walkway http://www.passadicosdopaiva.pt/ that winds through the terrain of the area, which happens to be a UNESCO Global Geopark. It is characterized by mountains (200-6000m high) carved by narrow valleys. There is a couple of mountains Freita (1110m) and Montemuro (1222m) higher than the rest of the Geopark.

There is a total of 41 geosites in the park. There is a high fossil content with giant trilobites up to 90cm in size (they do look like giant small bugs!).

You can join some excursions to learn more about the site or just take advantage of the adventure sport activities the natural terrain invites to pursue from rock climbing, rafting, canyoning, canoeing to walking.

The views and scenery are spectacular and if you need to re-energize do not be shy to try the local cuisine based on the indigenous cattle breed and convent pastries dating back to the 10th century when the Monastary of Arouca was founded.

This UNESCO Global Geopark and the 516Arouca bridge are 3hrs by car from Lisbon, though just about 1hr from Porto. If you plan to visit, we either advise to explore from Porto for a daytrip or plan to stay near the park over night if coming from Lisbon.

 

Enjoy!

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