12 Tips for Visiting the Paiva Walkways

The Paiva Walkways (Passadiços do Paiva), nestled in Arouca’s UNESCO Geopark in northern Portugal, offer an exhilarating experience for nature lovers and walkers and hikers alike. Most visitors do the Paiva Walkways as a day trip from Porto, though there are many things to do in the Arouca Geopark. This 8.7-kilometer trail winds through breathtaking landscapes, from river valleys to rocky cliffs, with optional suspension bridges. Here are 12 tips to make the most of your journey along these unique walkways.

Important note (19 September 2024): the Paiva Walkways are impacted by a forest fire. The extent of damage is unknown as we update this post. Please check status on the Paiva Walkways website or via your tour operator before heading to the walkways.

• Tip 1: How to Get from Porto to Paiva Walkways
• Tip 2. Finding a Top-Rated Guided Tour to Paiva
• Tip 3. How Long Does it Take to Walk the Paiva Walkways
• Tip 4: Where to Start Your Paiva Hike
• Tip 5. How to Buy Tickets for the Paiva Walkways
• Tip 6: Adding the Arouca Suspension Bridge
• Tip 7: How to Park and Find the Paiva Taxis and Jeeps
• Tip 8. Where to Eat Lunch on the Paiva Walkways
• Tip 9. Where to Swim Along the Paiva Walkways
• Tip 10. How to Hike Just Part of the Paiva Walkways
• Tip 11. Paiva Walkways Hiking Tips
• Tip 12. Things to Do in Arouca

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1. How to Get from Porto to Paiva Walkways

2. Finding a Top-Rated Guided Tour to Paiva

For those who prefer not to drive, several tour operators in Porto offer day trips to Paiva Walkways. These tours typically include transportation, a guide, entry tickets, and sometimes lunch. The benefits of a guided tour are the added insights you can gain about the local flora, fauna, and geology, and you don’t need to worry about transport. Plus, it’s a great way to meet fellow travelers.

Be sure to check the details of the tour carefully before booking to ensure that you’ll have a great experience. Some of the details to check are:

• Price
• Ratings and reviews
• Pick-up and drop-off logistics
• What is and is not included in the tour (meals, drinks, snacks, entry tickets).
• Will you have sufficient time to stop and relax, enjoy a swim or just relaxing by the river?
• Is this a private, small group, or large group tour?

Some of the top rated tours from Porto are included below.

3. How Long Does it Take to Walk the Paiva Walkways

Most people choose to walk the walkways in one direction only. The time it takes can vary significantly depending on your pace and the number of breaks you take. On average though, it takes about 2 to 3 hours to walk the 8.7 kilometers from one end to the other at a moderate pace. Allocate more time if you’re planning to take numerous photos, enjoy a relaxing lunch, go for a swim, or simply savor the views.

If you choose to walk both directions, it takes an average of 4-6 hours round trip at a moderate pace.

4. Where to Start Your Paiva Hike

There are two entrances to the Paiva Walkways, one in Areinho and one in Espiunca. Both have parking, as does the suspension bridge.

If you are hiking one-way, we’d recommend starting at Areinho and ending in Espiunca. You’ll have a long set of stairs uphill almost at the start (500-600 of them), but most of the remainder of your walk is slightly downhill (or down stairs). Finishing your walk in Espiunca also allows you to relax by the river and to enjoy a well-deserved meal at one of the local eateries nearby.

If you start instead with the suspension bridge, you avoid the steep set of uphill stairs in Areinho in the picture directly above, and still benefit from the long and gradual downhill for the remainder of your walk. You do still need to walk down a long set of stairs to reach Espiunca.

5. How to Buy Tickets for the Paiva Walkways

To access the Paiva Walkways and/or the Suspension Bridge, you need to purchase a ticket, which helps with the maintenance and preservation of this area. You can easily buy tickets online, which is the recommended method to ensure your entry, especially during the peak tourist season. Visit the official Arouca Municipality website or other affiliated sites where you can select your entry date and time.

Tickets are priced at a modest fee (as of the latest update, tickets cost 2 euros), making this a very affordable outdoor activity. Book well in advance during high season. A limited number of tickets may be available at the entry points themselves, but this is not guaranteed.

6. Adding the Arouca Suspension Bridge (516 Arouca)

The Arouca Suspension Bridge, known as the 516 Arouca, is another must-see attraction near the Paiva Walkways. This is one of the longest suspension bridges in Europe at 516 meters long and at a height of about 175 meters above the Paiva River. The views over the river and the Arouca Geopark are amazing. That said, if you have a fear of heights, this may not be a great choice.

An additional benefit is that, if you start with the suspension bridge, you avoid the steep set of uphill stairs in Areinho, and still benefit from the long and gradual downhill for the remainder of your walk to Espiunca. Note that you do have to walk down a long set of stairs in either case. This is not an accessible walk.

Similar to the walkways, tickets for the bridge can be purchased online, which is the most convenient and reliable method. Visit the official 516 Arouca website to find the availability and book your slot. The ticket price varies depending on the season and includes access to the Paiva Walkways, making it a great combined experience.

7. How to Park and Find the Paiva Taxis and Jeeps

Walking from Espiunca: If you are walking both directions from Espiunca, park at the Espiunca trailhead and walk from there (40°59’34.67″N 8°12’41.19″W). There are restrooms (with showers), as well as a few cafés/restaurants in the area just around the parking lot.

Walking Areinho to Espiunca: There are both open-air jeeps and taxis who park in the lot in Espiunca. Many people park in Areinho (GPS 40°57’10.2″N 8°10’35.1″W), walk to Espiunca, then catch a taxi or jeep back to their car. We parked in Espiunca, took a taxi to the Areinho entrance, and then walked back to our car. Either way should be fine, though we preferred not worrying about whether there would be a taxi available when we finished.

As of early 2024, you had to pay 18 Euros cash for taxis and open air jeeps from Espiunca to Areinho.

Walking over the Arouca Suspension Bridge and down to Espiunca: One option is to park in Albisqueiros (GPS 40°58’11.1″N 8°09’26.1″W), and walk 1000 meters to the bridge. After crossing the bridge, walk down to the walkways to Espiunca and take a jeep or taxi back to your car. Alternatively, park at Espiunca, take the taxi or jeep to the start of the bridge first, then walk back to your car.

You can find more details on parking on the bridge website. Keep in mind that all of these parking lots are free and are unsecured (they recommend not leaving your valuables in the car).

8. Where to Eat Lunch on the Paiva Walkways

There are limited options for dining directly on the trail. Consider packing a picnic lunch. There are several scenic spots along the walkways where you can enjoy a peaceful meal on the rocks, on a beach, or even next to the small suspension bridge, which we did. This is especially appealing if you prefer a more leisurely pace and want to soak in the views without being restricted by restaurant locations or service times.

Restaurant options along the trail include:

• Casa do Areinho is at the Areinho starting point. It’s a great place to get coffee before you start or have a meal after your hike.
• There is a restaurant at the halfway point of the walkways (next to the Praia Fluvial Vau). This conveniently situated eatery offers a variety of local dishes and refreshments, great for refueling during your hike. It is not always open though, especially during the off season.
• At the end of the trail in Espiunca, there are a few small local cafes and eateries where you can relax and enjoy a meal by the river. These spots are ideal for trying out regional specialties like roasted lamb or the famous Arouca steaks, giving you a taste of the local culinary scene as a rewarding end to your hike.

9. Where to Swim Along the Paiva Walkways

The Paiva River itself offers delightful opportunities for a refreshing swim. While the river water is clear and refreshing, always be cautious and check current conditions, as water levels and currents can vary. There are no lifeguards on duty, so you will be swimming is at your own risk. Make sure to observe any safety signs and use common sense when entering the water.

One of the most popular spots for swimming is located near the Espiunca end of the walkways. This area features a small, natural lagoon-like pool. It is easily accessible from the trail and provides a calm spot for visitors to cool off. Don’t forget your towel and your bathing suit!

There are several smaller, less crowded spots along the river that are perfect for dipping your toes in, including the beach in Vau (near the restaurant). When we were there, the water was flowing very quickly and there were numerous warning signs about swimming here. While it was a great spot to have a picnic lunch at the picnic tables, we did not consider it swimmable. There is a smaller (free) suspension bridge near Vau that you can explore.

10. How to Hike Just Part of the Paiva Walkways

Most people walk end to end from Areinho to Espiunca or vice versa (or starting on the bridge as described previously). What happens if you cannot complete the whole walk? You have a few options:

• Quite a few people who want to avoid the stairs park at Espiunca and walk part of the way towards Areinho, then retracing their steps. You can then go as far as you’d like before returning to Espiunca. You can still enjoy the beach near Espiunca when taking this approach.
• In case you start your walk and need to stop halfway, you can call a taxi when you reach Vau. There is a sign on the restaurant with the taxi’s phone number in case you need a this exit option.
• In case of emergency, there are phones every few kilometers on the walkways (in case your mobile service doesn’t work).

11. Paiva Walkways Hiking Tips

• Early morning is the best time to start your walk to avoid the crowds and the heat of the midday sun.
• Check the weather forecast in advance and dress accordingly.
• Don’t forget your camera; the views are incredible!
• Wearing sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection is essential.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Preserve the natural beauty by following the Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Carry a basic first aid kit for minor injuries.

Must-Have Items for Your Paiva Walkways Adventure

• Backpack to carry your snacks, water, lunch, towel.
• Water bottle (there is nowhere to get water on the walkways unless the restaurant in Vau is open). Consider adding electrolytes to help you stay hydrated, such as Nuun and LiquidIV. Don’t drink water from streams and ponds, unless you are using a LifeStraw or similar.
• Bring a raincoat/windbreaker in case of rain or wind.
• Healthy snacks and/or lunch.
• Optional: Many people enjoy having trekking poles, which can reduce the strain on your ankles and knees.

12. Things to Do in Arouca

Many people explore the Paiva Walkways and Arouca Suspension Bridge as a day trip. If you have more time, consider spending the night in Arouca, leaving time to explore Arouca further. Some great options are:

• UNESCO Geopark
• Paiva River Canoe Rafting Adventure Tour
• Paiva River Rafting Adventure – Adventure Tour
• Canyoning – Adventure Tour
• Guided Canyoning Tour in Arouca Geopark
• Museu des Trolobites (fossil museum)

Where to Stay in Arouca

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