The breathtaking landscapes that Portugal has to offer have originated creative and unique spots to contemplate such splendor.
The reputation of the panoramic swings started in the summer of 2020 and the number keeps rising.
Offering views to the river, the mountains or the countryside, all these marvelous swings, made with totally different resistance than usual, allow any adult to use them freely, thus making them return to their memories of childhood.
With more and more photographing them for posts on social networks, they are spread all over the country and it really is worth it to “fly” in them, providing us an incredible sense of freedom.
1. Swing 440, Fafe
This swing is dedicated to all the lovers. Aside from the magnificent views, its highlight is a sentence carved in its own wood where one can read “The love that unites us”.
It is located next to Capela de Santa Marinha (Chapel of Santa Marinha) in Fafe and it is wonderful to immortalize a romantic moment in the form of a photograph.
We are sure you will not ever forget the moment in which you rocked yourself with this wonderful view in sight while hugged to your other half.
2. Baloiço do Mezio, Arcos de Valdevez
It is the largest string swing in the whole of Portugal, with its 7.60 metre tall wooden structure, built atop of Mezio, in Arcos de Valdevez, near Porta do Mezio, one of the five gates to the National Park of Peneda-Gerês. In order to get there, just walk or cycle 120 metres. Here nature can be experienced in its purest state, watch the cows grazing freely as well the horses. Here you can fully enjoy the full 360 degree view to the Park, it will be so worth it!
3. Baloiço da Lagoa da Pateira do Carregal, Aveiro
Located in the Parish of Requeixo, about 15km from the centre of Aveiro, Baloiço da Lagoa da Pateira do Carregal is surrounded by a a wholly idyllic scenery. It was setup here so those visiting can enjoy the view a field of water lilies and the whole of the natural landscape of Parque Ribeirinho do Carregal.
Here, you have picknick tables for a snack, and you can go up the observation tower for avifaunato feast your eyes with the wonders of nature. Access is free and accessible also to people with reduced mobility.
4. Baloiço do Bestança, Cinfães
It is nothing more than a stone-built seat held by two ropes to a tree trunk, but the heavenly scenery is very much worth the effort to arrive there. It can be found in Cinfães, near canhão de Pias and little waterfalls can also be seen here.
The water that flows under the swing is that of Rio Bestança, which source is in Serra de Montemuro, at 1229 metres of altitude, and which runs through the municipality of Cinfães until it flows into Rio Douro.
In order to find it, walk along the pavement along the trout farming ponds and follow the signs.
5. Baloiço do Burgo, Lousã
This swing, which also bears the name Baloiço das Piscinas de Nossa Senhora da Piedade, can be found between Castanheira de Pera and Coimbra, in the region of Lousã, close to the Aldeias de Xisto [Schist Villages]. It can only be accessed when the creek’s stream is low, or it can put any visitor in danger.
Here you can rock as you dip your feet in the water, and you can also take a dip. The natural pool is marvelous, making it a fantastic spot for a summer day.
6. Baloiço de São Gens
It is in Castelo de Paiva and offers a panoramic view of the Douro river. It is located on Mount São Gens, in Santa Maria da Sardoura.
The region of the Douro, as it is known, is full of magic in terms of natural beauty, for it worth it to visit this swing.
7. Baloiço Nossa Senhora da Luz, Marco de Canaveses
Located in the Parque do Divino Salvador, in the parish of Bem Viver, this swing holds a breathtaking view of the Douro which will result in great photographs.
This swing was built by the local community and stresses the beauty of the park which is, by itself, enough to take a visit to this magic spot.
8. Baloiço do Picoto, Penafiel
Located on top of Picoto, a tranquil place on the highest point of Vila de Abragão, at about 540 metres of altitude, this swing offers an incredible view over the Tâmega river and it is the result of the initiative of the group “Rodativa BTT”, founded by friends that promote activities such as off-road cycling, trails and hikes around Aragão, 12km from Penafiel. You have to walk at least 500 metres to arrive the peak of Abragão.
9. Baloiço do Meco, Trofa
Built in Meco da Guerra, around Monte de Paradela in Trofa, i tis one of the highest points of the municipality and is visited by bicycle lovers. This swing works as a panoramic belvedere in the middle of the countryside, with a view to the town.
10. Baloiço de Canelas, Vila Nova de Gaia
Serra de Negrelos is one of the forest settlements of Vila Nova de Gaia.
In 1983, a Trail of Nature Interpretation was created to transform this mountain into an area dedicated to environmental education. The swing can be found along this trail, surrounded by the forested area of this range, and was created by a group of friends of ADC, Santa Isabel Trail & Running.
From this rocking chair, you can see a lagoon, and to get there, you just have to follow the path signaled by pink ribbons that start next to the bandstand [coreto] and the church of Canelas.
If you want to feel the joy of rocking yourself while reviving your childhood memories, as you are stunned with the idyllic and unequaled landscapes, then do pay a visit to these fantastic spots!
