Walk the dramatic Passadiços do Paiva with NaTour Way in Canelas, Portugal, and encounter waterfalls, otters, and jaw-dropping river gorges along an award-winning trail.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have reasonable stamina for walking uneven terrain and some elevation changes.
Wildlife
History
The Passadiços do Paiva trail was constructed to promote sustainable tourism while preserving the geological and ecological integrity of the Paiva Valley.
Conservation
NaTour Way emphasizes low-impact travel to protect this fragile river ecosystem and encourage environmental stewardship among visitors.
NaTour Way
Walk the dramatic Passadiços do Paiva with NaTour Way in Canelas, Portugal, and encounter waterfalls, otters, and jaw-dropping river gorges along an award-winning trail.
NaTour Way is an outdoor adventure operator based in União das freguesias de Canelas e Espiunca, Aveiro. The company organises a wide range of river and land experiences focused on the Paiva and Douro corridors, the Serra da Freita and local geosites. NaTour Way offers Stand Up Paddle (SUP) and kayaking on the Paiva and Douro Rivers, including canoe rentals and beginner lessons for those new to paddling.
Water-based programmes include canoe-rafting (3–3.5 hours), rafting with varying difficulty levels, paddle-rafting, tubing-rafting and paddle-focused activities suitable for different ages and skill levels. Several experiences pair river time with a Jeep transfer to notable geosites such as the Garganta do Paiva.
On land, NaTour Way runs Jeep tours through Montanhas Mágicas and Vale do Paiva, visits to the Complexo Mineiro de Regoufe and Roman mining sites, and guided walks at the Passadiços do Paiva and Ponte 516 Arouca. Motorised options include CAN‑AM buggy experiences in 60, 90, 120 and 180 minute formats and moto adventure routes across scenic viewpoints.
Adventure offerings extend to canyoning, rapel, espeleologia (caving), BTT (mountain biking), trotinetes elétricas and historical guided visits in the Centro Histórico da Vila de Arouca. Local and expert guides feature in multiple itineraries, and many experiences include on-site equipment, safety briefings and interpretive information about geology, mining heritage and regional landscapes. NaTour Way presents options for short excursions and longer immersive outings, serving families, small groups and experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
Base Location
União das freguesias de Canelas e Espiunca, Aveiro
Gateway to Paiva & Douro sites
Tours Offered
27 Tours
River, mountain and mining activities
Guided Experiences
Local expert guides
Safety and interpretation included
Flexible Durations
Short & longer trips
Options from 60 to 180 minutes
Reserve SUP, kayak, buggy, Jeep tours or rafting today — select dates and durations available for families and experienced adventurers.
Wear sturdy footwear
The wooden boardwalk can be slippery when wet; solid hiking shoes will provide better grip and ankle support.
Bring plenty of water
There are limited water sources along the trail, so carry sufficient hydration especially in warmer months.
Start early in the day
To avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, plan to begin your walk in the morning hours.
Respect wildlife sightings
If you spot otters or birds, observe quietly and avoid sudden movements to not disturb their natural behavior.
Waterproof lightweight jacket
Spring showers can come on suddenly; a breathable jacket keeps you dry without overheating.
spring
Hiking boots
Provides traction and support on slick or uneven boardwalk sections.
Daypack with hydration system
Ideal for carrying water, snacks, and sun protection on warmer days.
summer
Binoculars
Useful for spotting elusive otters and bird species without disturbing wildlife.