Portugal is without a doubt one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, perhaps even in the world, and with this beauty, there is lots of exploring to be done. Hiking in Portugal offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged mountains to picturesque coastal trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Today we are bringing you our selection of some of the best hikes in Portugal, with spectacular walking routes for all levels. Whether you want a relaxing coastal walk or an active countryside trek, hiking in Portugal is the perfect way to enjoy Portugal’s varied landscape. Let’s begin the tour of the best hikes in Portugal that are not to be missed.
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Our first stop is one of the best day hikes in Portugal. Portugal is home to unending natural beauty and a lot of this can be found on the country’s rugged coastline which has been shaped and changed over the years by the power of nature. This has resulted in a stunning selection of sea caves on Portugal’s southernmost Algarve coast and these stunning natural rock formations can be enjoyed on one of the best hikes in Portugal which is known as the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is a renowned hiking route that showcases the natural beauty of Portugal's coastal regions. This 12km trail (around 7.5 miles) is the perfect way to discover all 7 caves along the Algarve coast, starting at the rugged cliffs of Carvoeiro and stretching to Praia da Marinha. Highlights of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, which is suitable for all levels, from keen hikers to beginners, include Benagil Beach and Carvalho Beach.
Be aware that in order to catch a glimpse of the remarkable Benagil Cave, it is necessary to venture into the water as this cave can only be accessed from the sea. The surrounding area offers various options for renting paddleboards or boats, allowing you to enjoy the most breathtaking views of this magnificent cave.
Cabo da Roca to Azenhas do Mar Coastal Trail
The next stop on our tour of Portugal's best hikes takes us to another one of the best coastal walks in Portugal. We’re off to Sintra, and while you may initially be thinking of the colourful palaces that Sintra is famous for, the Sintra coastline is also a must visit.
This walking route starts in Cabo da Roca which can be most easily accessed from Cascais or Lisbon, and will take you through a range of wonderful beaches until you reach Azenhas do Mar, famous for its charming whitewashed houses that overlook the sea.
This is one of the best hikes near Lisbon. The total distance of this hike is almost 11km (7 miles) and will take you along the edge of the Sintra-Cascais Natural park on the Lisbon coast. This really is one of the best hikes in Portugal with stunning panoramic views that you will never forget.
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Rota Vincentina
Embarking on our upcoming hiking journey in Portugal, we venture towards Cabo Saint Vicente, renowned as the southernmost point of Europe. This serves as the beginning of one of Portugal's most enchanting trails, providing awe-inspiring vistas of the expansive coastline that stretches into the horizon.
Starting in the Algarve and then meandering up Portugal’s Alentejo coast, this coastal route is known as the “Rota Vicentina” or “the Fisherman’s trail”. This is because, as well as enjoying the spectacular Portuguese coastline, this hiking trail also gives you the chance to visit charming fishing villages which are steeped in history and the perfect places to make a pit stop to recharge your batteries. Don't forget to also try out the local gastronomic scene where fresh fish is the star of the show.
Once again, this Portuguese hike is good for all levels and instead of doing the entire trail, you can easily choose more manageable sections.
25 Fontes Hike
The trail known as 25 Fontes or 25 Waterfalls offers a self-explanatory and awe-inspiring experience as it leads you through a captivating tour of no less than 25 waterfalls on the picturesque Portuguese island of Madeira. This remarkable trail stands as the island's most renowned and favored hike, drawing visitors from across the globe to witness its natural splendor.
The total distance this hiking trail is about 11km (almost 7miles) and can take 3-4 hours to complete. This walking route is suitable for all levels and take note that when planning, it's necessary to set aside some time to relax beside some of the waterfalls to take a break and enjoy the stunning landscapes on offer.
Paiva Walkways
The Paiva Walkways are a firm favourite for those visiting Portugal who want to venture a little further away from the coast and enjoy rural Portugal. This 8km (5 mile) trail isn’t too challenging and is a great day hike in Portugal, but what makes it special is the impressive wooden walkways from which you can enjoy beautiful views of the Paiva River in the Portuguese countryside.
The Paiva Walkways (known as “passadiços do Paiva” in Portuguese) are located in Arouca which is an area about 65km south-east of the city of Porto. Take note that in summer, the trail also passes by several spots where you can swim in the river to cool down from your adventures under the hot Portuguese sun.
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