Fisgas do Ermelo

The Union of Parishes of Ermelo and Pardelhas, municipality of Mondim de Basto, region of Vila Real, Portugal, is home to the Fisgas do Ermelo, a waterfall. This waterfall, which is among the biggest in Portugal and among the biggest outside of the Alps and Scandinavia, doesn't fall in a single vertical leap but rather a series of them as it gradually overcomes a substantial quartzite barrier in a deep terrace. Its waters divide the neighboring regions' granitic zones from their shale zones.

The Olo River's waters carved a 200-meter-long slope for the waterfall. There are lakes with crystal clear waters that are quite popular in the summer before the water runs out. The EN304, which runs near to the hamlet of Ermelo, may be followed between Mondim de Basto and Vila Real to go to the waterfall. Alternatively, you can utilize the forest routes that connect Lamas de Olo and Ermelo. The road ascends 4 kilometers from this intersection to an overlook with picturesque views of the falls and the rough landscape that surrounds them.

The first, designated "1.5 km", is less difficult to drive than the second, "600 m", since it is less rough. Either entry will ultimately take you to a trail that descends into the river gorge, where you can take in the breath-taking views of the river tumbling from a cliff face as well as (further up) a natural water slide and a number of pools ideal for cooling off on a hot day.

Location: Vila Real, Portugal