Portugal is much more than just historical architecture and picturesque views. When you think of this country, you may envisage football, delicious port wine, mouthwatering offerings at their popular bakeries, piri piri chicken, and more. However, there are also golden beaches, impressive coasts, breathtaking views, and many hidden places to explore here. You can head to Lisbon, the country’s capital, to visit historical destinations such as Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Those who love nature can surely experience the joy of hiking in this country through any of the wonderful paths that wind across beautiful lush greenery. Portugal is one of the best European countries to experience nature. To know more, scroll down for the most adventurous & scenic hiking paths in Portugal.
1. Coimbra: Lousã hiking trails
This trail leads to the top of the Lousã Mountain and is about 11.5 kilometers (7.1 miles) long. While the path is not dramatically steep, it requires endurance. The major part of the road goes through the Lousã forest and features a couple of fountains with springs, perfect for hot summer days. During the walk along the Lousã Mountain path, you will also be able to witness ancient schist villages, with Talasnal being the most prominent.
Lousa hiking trails
Address: Sierra de Lousã. Lousã, Coimbra, Portugal
Website: Hiking trails in Lousa - Portuguese
2. Alentejo: Borba-Serra d’Ossa
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Borba is found in the beautiful Alentejo region, also called the “white gold” for its unique architecture and white marble. The hiking trail starts from São Tiago of Rio de Moinhos to Serra d’Ossa. It is situated on top of vineyards and below the mountains, offering gorgeous views that you definitely shouldn’t miss. Along the road, you can also visit the chapel and village of São Gregório. The hike is about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) in total.
Borba-Serra d’Ossa
Address: Borba, Alentejo, Portugal
3. Porto: Penafiel
This 14.4-kilometer- (9-mile-) long path is located in Penafiel, situated about 3 hours from Lisbon. It offers an incredible insight into the local life through picturesque old villages and breathtaking views. One of the most beautiful landmarks here is the Monastery of the Saviour of Paço de Sousa, a Romanesque church that dates back to the 10th century. Here, you can enjoy your time as you walk along the ruins of ancient houses.
Penafiel
Address: Penafiel, Porto District, Portugal
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4. Hiking in the city of Sintra
Sintra is a beautiful town situated about 30 minutes from the capital city of Lisbon. The town is placed in the Sintra Mountains, making it ideal for hiking enthusiasts. Here, you can find a path that leads to two significant monuments, Palacio de Pena and Castle of the Moors. While walking to the top, you will pass by the historic center and enjoy spectacular views. This is considered a moderate hike and is about 11 km (6 mi) long.
Sintra
Address: Sintra, Portugal
Portugal Tour Guide
Ana Cristina Paiva
I am an australian-born Portuguese living in Lisbon since I was 8 years old. I studied Tourism and became a Licensed Guide and I absolutely love my job! The Portuguese landscape, history, food, traditions have won me over and I hope to share all this with you! I live in an historical neighborhood and believe that the best way to get to know a city is by walking. During the tours I hope to answer your questions and curiosities, proving a memorable and fun learing experience.
Tours by Ana-cristina
5. The District of Sintra: Cabo da Roca
The Sintra district offers plenty of unspoiled places, unbelievable views, and spectacular beaches. Cabo da Roca is definitely worth visiting while you are here, featuring a gorgeous overlook. If you are not planning to bring a car, it is easily accessible by bus. While you are here, you can also head to the hidden beach of Praia da Ursa for a beautiful view of the rocks and the clear waters. Getting down to the beach requires a short hike, so be sure to wear proper attire during your visit.
Cabo da Roca
Address: Estrada do Cabo da Roca s/n, 2705-001 Colares, Portugal
6. Algarve: from Selma to Sagres, from Sagres to Cabo San Vicente
Explore the cliffs, lagoons, beaches, and coast of the fantastic Algarve. There are a lot of hiking trails here, which can take you through Algarve’s stunning nature-filled landscapes and old fishing villages. The hiking trail from Selma to Sagres goes through a stunning coastline with gorgeous beaches such as Zavial and Ingrina. It is 16.5 km (10.3 mi) long.
The next hiking trail is from Sagres to Cabo San Vicente, a 14-kilometer- (9-mile-) long path. You will start from Sagres and walk along the high cliffs towards the lighthouse at Cabo San Vicente. During the walk, you will witness a few hidden beaches, settled between the impressive cliffs. At the end of the trail, you will find a lighthouse built in 1846 over the former Franciscan convent.
From Selma to Sagres
Address: The start point: Selma, Algarve, Portugal. The finish point: Sagres, Algarve, Portugal
From Sagres to Cabo San Vicente
Address: The start point: Sagres, Algarve, Portugal. The finish point: Farol do Cabo de São Vicente, EN 268, 8650-370 Sagres, Vila do Bispo, Portugal
7. The highest Portugal mountains: Serra da Estrela
Serra de Estrela is the highest mountain range in Portugal. The mountains are divided by the valley of two rivers, Rio de Mondego and Rio Zezere, which are the largest in Portugal. The highest mountain of the Serra de Estrela is Torre, with an elevation of 1,993 meters (6,539 feet). Even though the Terra is the highest point, it is still accessible by the mountain road. In the summers, you can get a view of sheep feeding on the steep slopes, while in the winters, the surrounding area turns into a ski resort.
Serra da Estrela
Address: Serra da Estrela, Centro, Portugal
Website: Serra da Estrela
8. Viana do Castelo: Serra Peneda-Geres National Park
Serra Peneda-Geres National Park boasts an impressive landscape with mountain ranges. You can enjoy exploring the picturesque villages while you are here. It is situated in the northernmost part of Portugal, and it truly is a natural paradise that offers stunning views.
Today, it is home to about 10,000 people, and one of the most-visited resorts here is Caldas do Geres, which is also a local bath. You may need a total of 7 days to explore the hiking trails, which constitute about 85 kilometers (52.8 miles).
Serra Peneda-Geres
Address: Serra Peneda-Geres, Viana do Castelo, Portugal
Put your shoes on
There is no doubt that Portugal is an excellent choice if you are looking for adventures, want to explore the outdoors, and go hiking. One of the most exotic countries, it offers countless places to explore and enjoy. Put your hiking shoes on and check out the most adventurous & scenic hiking paths in Portugal.
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