Arouca

Arouca was recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2009, and it's easy to see why—the spectacular scenery, fascinating geological history, and amazing natural formations make it a highlight of northern Portugal. The spectacular 516 Arouca, which opened in 2021 as the world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge at 516 meters (since surpassed, it remains one of the world's largest), transformed this once-sleepy hill town into a major tourist draw, and the 2025 opening of a luxury hotel in the town's grand monastery has emphasized its growing popularity.

Although located in Aveiro Province, Arouca sits almost equidistant from Porto and Ovar, with Porto offering the nearest airport. From Ovar, it's about an hour's drive to Arouca, and then another half-hour to reach the Paiva Walkways at the Geopark entrance station. The park encompasses more than 100 square miles of some of the world's most geologically significant sites. The walkways snake along the Paiva River, offering both a superior (and strenuous) hike and opportunities to see the area's remarkable natural formations in detail.