Attractions and Places To See around Paradela - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Paradela include a variety of natural and historical sites, primarily located in Portugal. The region is characterized by its rugged landscapes, featuring impressive waterfalls, natural lagoons, and ancient structures. Visitors can explore historical religious buildings and bridges, alongside unique geological formations. This area offers opportunities for discovering both cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Paradela
- The most popular attractions is Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons), a lake…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Monastery of Saint Mary of Pitões das Júnias
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Ponte da Misarela and Waterfall
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Cela Cavalos Waterfall
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Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons)
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Pitões das Júnias Waterfall
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The waters of this waterfall come from the Pitões stream, which, due to the uneven terrain, develops over several levels, the first of which is about 30 meters high and flows into a lake bounded by granite outcrops. This waterfall is one of many in the Barroso region and feeds several rivers that originate in the Serra do Gerês.
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Cela Cavalos Waterfall, or Cela de Cavalos, is a paradisiacal waterfall located in the municipality of Montalegre, in the Peneda-Gerês National Park. With crystal-clear waters, it's a perfect spot for summer swimming, hiking, and nature contemplation. The main access point is from the village of Cela.
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The Monastery of Santa Maria das Júnias is a ruined monastery, of which the church remains, located on the outskirts of Pitões das Júnias. The last Cistercian monk became the parish priest of the village of Pitões das Júnias in 1834, the date of the abolition of religious orders in Portugal. As a historical curiosity, it is worth noting that Dom Pedro de Pitões, one of the main drivers of the conquest of Lisbon from the Moors in 1147, was ordained bishop of Porto at this monastery.
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The Misarela Bridge, also known as the Devil's Bridge or the Bridge of Hell (we'll explain why below), is one of the most interesting monuments in the North of Portugal. Whether because of the legends, its historical importance or the beautiful landscape in which it is located. The Misarela Bridge is a trestle bridge over a slightly pointed arch, 13 metres high. This was originally a medieval bridge, which was rebuilt in the early 19th century (before the French Invasions) and which gave rise to two famous popular legends and ancient rituals. It has been a property of public interest since 1957 and in this article we will explore all of this, as well as the best ways to get there.
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Hidden in the heights of Pitões das Júnias, the ancient monastery of Santa Maria carries centuries of history in the stones that support it. It is believed that its origins date back to the 9th century, in the middle of the Reconquista era, before Portugal was born as a kingdom. Officially, however, it was founded in the 12th century under the auspices of the Benedictines, and later embraced the austerity of the Cistercian reform. Today, among the silent ruins, the modest side portico of the church and the delicate arcades of the cloister remain.
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From the top of the Pitões waterfall, in addition to the impressive waterfall, you can see the beautiful Beredo oak forest, where the Pyrenean oak is a perennial species, perfectly adapted to the climate and altitude of this region. If you look towards the horizon, the imposing outline of the Gerês mountain range completes this scene of pure natural beauty.
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The monastery of Santa Maria de Pitões das Júnias has roots that are believed to date back to a period before the founding of the Kingdom of Portugal, in the 9th century, during the Christian Reconquest. However, it is certain that it was founded in the mid-12th century, initially under the Benedictine Order, later adhering to the Cistercian reform. Notable remains of its original design still remain, such as the simple side portico of the church and the discreet arcades of the cloister, now in ruins.
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Fascinating landscape, by bike or on foot
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Paradela?
Paradela is rich in natural beauty, offering several stunning water features. You can visit Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons), a unique natural wonder with seven pools carved into the rock by erosion. Another must-see is the Cela Cavalos Waterfall, known for its eye-catching waterfall and a delightful lagoon with emerald waters. The Ponte da Misarela and Waterfall also combines historical interest with a beautiful natural cascade.
Are there historical or cultural sites to visit near Paradela?
Yes, Paradela offers several significant historical and cultural sites. The Monastery of Saint Mary of Pitões das Júnias is a religious building with origins potentially predating the Kingdom of Portugal, showcasing notable remains of its 12th-century design. The Ponte da Misarela and Waterfall is a medieval bridge with a rich history, rebuilt in the early 19th century. Additionally, the Chapel of Our Lady of Health is a historical religious site built in 1774.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Paradela?
The region around Paradela is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore various hiking and mountain biking trails. For hiking, consider routes like the 'Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons) – Seven Lagoons of Gerês loop' or the 'Vale do Rio Cavadas – Cela Cavalos Waterfall loop'. Mountain biking options include the 'Rio Cabril Crossing – Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons) loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Paradela and MTB Trails around Paradela guides.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners near Paradela?
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails around Paradela. Options include the 'Trail to Pincães Waterfall – Pincães Waterfall loop' and the 'Xertelo Village – Seven Lagoons of Gerês loop'. These trails offer a chance to experience the natural beauty without extreme difficulty. For more easy routes, check the Easy hikes around Paradela guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Paradela?
Visitors particularly appreciate the serene and mystical atmosphere of sites like the Monastery of Saint Mary of Pitões das Júnias. The Ponte da Misarela and Waterfall is often highlighted as a must-visit for its beautiful arched structure and accompanying waterfall, especially in spring. The natural pools of Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons) are also a favorite for their unique beauty and the picturesque path leading to them.
Is Paradela in Portugal or Spain, and which region does this guide cover?
There are locations named Paradela in both Portugal and Spain. This guide primarily focuses on attractions around Paradela in Portugal, particularly in the Trás-os-Montes region and areas like Tabuaço, which feature sites like the Sete Lagoas (Seven Lagoons) and the Monastery of Saint Mary of Pitões das Júnias.
Are there any waterfalls suitable for swimming near Paradela?
Yes, the Cela Cavalos Waterfall is fed by crystal-clear waters and forms an irresistible natural pool, making it ideal for swimming and nature contemplation. There's also a delightful lagoon with emerald waters hidden above the main waterfall.
What is the best time of year to visit Paradela for outdoor activities?
For outdoor activities like hiking and exploring waterfalls, spring and early autumn are generally ideal. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Spring brings blooming gorse around sites like Ponte da Misarela, enhancing the scenic beauty.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic views around Paradela?
While specific viewpoints are not detailed in the immediate highlight data for this Paradela, the region in Portugal is known for its rugged landscapes and river valleys like the Rio Sabor Valley, which offer beautiful views. The trails leading to natural attractions such as Sete Lagoas also provide scenic vistas.
Can I find ancient mills or traditional structures near Paradela?
Yes, the area around Paradela in Portugal features remnants of traditional structures. For instance, the landscape around the Cela Cavalos Waterfall includes ruins of old mills, contributing to the historical charm of the panorama. The village of Paradela (Tabuaço) also has an ancient communal oven and other historical buildings.
Are there any archaeological sites in the Paradela region?
Yes, particularly in the Paradela village within the municipality of Tabuaço, there are notable archaeological sites. These include the Iron Age settlement of S. Mamede, ancient rock carvings at Eira do Monte, and Roman-medieval remnants such as Casal romano da Eira do Monte and Lagar romano/medieval da Eira do Monte.
What kind of wildlife can I spot around Paradela?
The natural areas around Paradela, especially those with rich biodiversity, offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. While specific species are not detailed for the Portuguese Paradela in the provided data, regions like the Loio-Ruxidoira Natural Space in the Spanish Paradela are known for protected species such as the Iberian newt and Galician lizard, suggesting a diverse ecosystem in similar natural settings.
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