Experience an unforgettable 8-day journey through the stunning landscapes of the Greater Côa Valley. Connect deeply with nature, local culture, and authentic conservation initiatives, staying in charming family-run guesthouses. Enjoy traditional cuisine, participate actively in meaningful conservation efforts, and form genuine bonds with welcoming local communities. Thoughtfully designed for travelers seeking authenticity and inspiration, this journey offers a chance to reconnect profoundly with the wilderness and cultural heritage of one of Europe's pioneering rewilding regions.

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to the Wild Arrive independently in the Côa Valley, where the wild beauty of northeastern Portugal awaits. Check into your charming, family-run rural accommodation — a place of comfort and authenticity surrounded by peaceful countryside. In the evening, enjoy a warm local welcome and an introduction to the week’s journey through the rewilding landscapes of the Côa and Douro valleys. Train arrival possible via Pocinho station, with transfer available upon request. Day 2: Exploring Rewilding Landscapes Begin your adventure with a guided exploration led by a local naturalist. Discover the Rewilding Portugal initiative areas, where efforts are underway to restore natural ecosystems and bring back key species such as Sorraia horses. Learn about landscape regeneration, coexistence with wildlife, and the vision of a wilder future for the region. Activity: Guided nature and conservation tour Day 3: Echoes of the Ancients Step back more than 20,000 years at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Côa Valley Archaeological Park, home to one of the world’s largest open-air collections of Paleolithic rock art. Walk along the riverbanks with your guide and marvel at engravings of ancient horses, aurochs, and ibex — testaments to humanity’s oldest artistic expressions. Activity: Guided walk & visit to the Côa Valley Archaeological Park Day 4: Wonders of Douro Internacional Venture into the Douro Internacional Natural Park, where steep cliffs and the Douro River form a dramatic frontier with Spain. Enjoy a self-guided walk through this striking landscape, where golden eagles, black storks, and griffon vultures thrive. In the afternoon, visit a local organic vineyard for a wine tasting and light lunch, learning about sustainable viticulture in the Douro region — a perfect pairing of nature and culture. Activity: Self-guided walk & organic wine tasting Day 5: Wild Côa Immerse yourself in the heart of the Ermo das Águias, one of Rewilding Portugal’s flagship areas. Walk among herds of Sorraia horses and observe rewilded habitats that support numerous bird species, including the short-toed eagle and red kite. Your guide will share fascinating insights into how nature is reclaiming these lands. Activity: Guided walk & wildlife observation Day 6: Journey Through Historical Villages Step into the past as you explore one of the Aldeias Históricas de Portugal — likely Marialva, Castelo Rodrigo, or Almeida. Wander through cobbled streets, discover medieval fortifications, and enjoy the authentic charm of traditional rural life preserved through centuries. Activity: Self-guided cultural walk Day 7: Trails of Reflection Set out on a guided hike along the Vale do Côa Long Distance Trail (GR45), following ancient paths that link nature, heritage, and rewilded lands. Enjoy panoramic views across valleys and vineyards, and take time to reflect on your journey through this living landscape. In the evening, share a farewell dinner featuring local seasonal dishes paired with regional wines — a perfect closing to your adventure in wild Portugal. Activity: Guided walk & farewell dinner Day 8: Farewell to the Valley After a hearty breakfast, take a last look at the wide open landscapes of the Côa Valley before departing independently. Carry home not only memories of breathtaking scenery and ancient art, but also a deeper appreciation for the natural resilience and cultural richness of this rewilded land. Notes: Accommodation: typically rural guesthouses or eco-lodges within the Côa Valley region. Walking grades: easy to moderate (3–5 hours per day). Transfers and additional activities (such as e-bike rental or wildlife hides) available on request.

What's Included?

Included App with offline trail navigation and personalized digital route notes Private transfers – as referred in the itinerary (including optional transfer from​/​to Pocinho train station) Guided Rewilding Experience in the Côa Valley Guided visit Côa Valley Archaeological Park Guided Visit to the UNESCO Côa Valley Archaeological Park Organic Winery Visit & Tasting Guided Walk & Wildlife Observation in Ermo das Águias Guided Hike on the Vale do Côa Long Distance Trail (GR45) Farewell Dinner with regional cuisine 7 nights accommodation with breakfast in family-run guesthouses or eco-lodges 1 light lunch during organic wine tasting Pre-departure WhatsApp call for trip briefing and logistics Phone support 24​/​7 throughout the journey Contribution to local rewilding projects and conservation initiatives

How your experience helps rewilding efforts

Contributing Financially: A significant portion of your investment directly funds local conservation projects, habitat restoration, and ongoing wildlife monitoring activities. Building Awareness: Through guided explorations and interactive discussions, you gain insights into rewilding, becoming an ambassador who raises awareness and advocates for conservation efforts. Empowering Local Communities: Staying at family-run accommodations, dining locally, and engaging with artisans and guides ensures economic benefits remain in local hands, encouraging communities to actively support rewilding initiatives. Active Participation: Your direct engagement in educational workshops, guided hikes, and cultural activities fosters deeper understanding and commitment to long-term conservation efforts, helping sustain the Greater Côa Valley’s ecosystems and biodiversity. This journey not only enriches your understanding of nature but also contributes meaningfully to the preservation and restoration of one of Europe's pioneering rewilding landscapes.

Difficulty

Moderate

Group size

8