Lima Escape is what estate agents would call ‘wonderfully appointed’. Nestled on the western-edge of Peneda-Gerês National Park (also known simply as Gerês), where 70,000 hectares of vast, amphitheatre-shaped space wows visitors each year with its deep river valleys, colossal peaks, and magical forests of oak and sweet-scented pine. With so much exploring to be done, you’ll need a campsite close-by where you can sleep off that sweet hiker's fatigue. Thankfully Lima Escape ticks that box and many more...
The site is huge (there’s capacity for 400 campers), yet it seems to maintain an intimate atmosphere whilst still showing off the site's vast, spectacular natural beauty. And what natural beauty there is. Pitching up in lush woodlands, surrounded by oak and pine trees, whilst the River Lima snakes its way nearby is a real pleasure for even the most seasoned camper. When the torches are switched off, and all you hear is the wind in the trees and the patter of weaving water, you realise Lima Escape is a bona fide camping nirvana.
One thing’s for sure, you won’t get bored. If you’re an enthusiastic rambler, you’ll love the surrounding mountains which offer a multitude of high-elevation paths and mountain biking treks, with views to knock your socks off. Gerês (Portugal’s major National Park) is spread across four dramatic granite peaks, and is especially popular with hikers in April and May when it’s twisting trails bloom with wildflowers.
The park is home to over 140 bird species including the eagle owl, honey buzzard and the whinchat, all of which are seldom seen elsewhere in Portugal. Animal lovers are also in luck, with ibex, wolf (don’t get too close!), pine martin, stoat and wild Garrano ponies all roaming the parks many moorlands.
Back at Lima Escape, your time is very much your own. In the evenings many choose to rendezvous by the snack bar, taking advantage of the full-flavoured food (homemade pies, sausages and hamburgers), or sipping a cold beer on the terrace. However, if you’d prefer some ‘me time’, Lima is the kind of peaceful, unspoiled patch where you can unwind without the fear of being disturbed.
Across the valley divided by the Rio Lima lies the loveably authentic Portuguese town of Lindoso. Offering a glimpse into what Soajo may have looked like before the tourist money rolled in, Lindoso is a delight to stroll through with its iconic stone houses, local women washing at communal fountains and chickens pecking merrily on paths. The town’s highlight is its petite, hilltop fortress that’s guarded the Lima Valley since medieval times. Also worth checking out is Lindoso’s recently restored castle, which was built in the 13th century by Alfonso III, and later reinforced by his son Dom Dinis. Today, it houses a small exhibition on the castle and its surrounding region. Tranquil Ponte Da Barca (12 minute drive) has a romantic riverfront park, enchanting sixteenth century bridge and tiny old centre that’s a joy to discover. It’s also a great source of information on how best to explore the magnificent Peneda-Gerês National Park. The town bursts into life every other Wednesday when a huge market spreads along the river. Culture vulture? Then venture 60km to Portugal’s third largest city, Braga. The bells of over 30 churches are a constant reminder of Braga’s devotion to the spiritual world. The town interweaves with ancient narrow streets, open plazas and boasts an impressive array of baroque churches. Adrenaline junkies will find pleasure here too, with plenty of water adventures right on your doorstep. Canoeing, canyoning and river hikes are all on the activity menu, with many others in the close surroundings of the park. If you want to try something different, go rafting in the late autumn and winter seasons when the rivers are much more full and fast!
In Soajo or Ponte da Barca (15 minutes) there are few traditional restaurants with fabulous regional cuisine, including a great choice of local beef-stakes, Bacalhau (typical cod fish), Octopus and Cabrito (mountain kid normally made in a traditional firewood oven) and grate variety of local deserts & cakes. Ask Reception for the good advice!