Autumn has arrived, bringing with it a noticeable shift in the air as the warmth of summer gives way to the approaching chill of winter. With cooler weather settling in, autumn presents an ideal opportunity to explore the less-travelled regions of Portugal beyond its coastal allure. As summer tourists disperse, many destinations enter a quieter season, often accompanied by more affordable prices. What better time for a refreshing getaway?
For nature lovers, Portugal shines particularly bright in autumn. Forests in Portugal beckon as the leaves transform, creating breathtaking landscapes awash in vivid reds, yellows, and oranges. Venturing inland reveals a side of Portugal that contrasts beautifully with its bustling cities and crowded beaches. It’s the perfect moment to lace up your sturdy boots, don a warm coat, and pack a backpack. Join us as we explore five of Portugal's best forests to enjoy this autumn.
Mata do Buçaco
First on the list is Buçaco National Forest (Mata Nacional do Buçaco), often dubbed Portugal's "enchanted forest." This is the largest forest on mainland Portugal. Situated in Luso in central Portugal, this stunning 105-hectare walled woodland is less a natural forest and more a vast botanical collection, featuring over 250 species of trees and shrubs. It includes not only native flora but also exotic specimens introduced by Portuguese sailors from as far away as Brazil and India.
Walking through this remarkable forest feels like stepping into a tropical rainforest in Western Europe. The 17th-century perimeter wall, built by Carmelite monks, encloses the forest and their convent, with ten gates providing access to its botanical wonders. Paved pathways, including the enchanting Fonte Fria waterfall, are also crafted by the monks. The forest's significance was such that the pope declared anyone who harmed the trees would face excommunication!
Peneda Geres National Park
Nestled along Portugal’s northern border, Peneda-Gerês National Park is one of the country’s most stunning natural landscapes and part of the UNESCO biosphere reserve of Gerês-Xurés. The park takes its name from the prominent mountain ranges that define its terrain: the Serra da Peneda and the Serra do Gerês. While much of the park features rocky terrain with sparse vegetation, it offers excellent hiking opportunities amid dense woodlands.
In the valleys between these peaks, steep slopes channel fast-flowing rivers, fostering lush temperate forests. This northern region retains distinct Atlantic flora, thriving even as Mediterranean ecosystems dominate much of Portugal. The forests are rich in various oak species and pine trees, creating a vibrant backdrop for your retreat. You can explore these woodlands via leisurely walking paths, challenging hiking trails, or even canoeing if you’re feeling adventurous.
Mata dos Sete Montes
Located in the Portuguese city of Tomar, Mata dos Sete Montes (Seven Hills National Wood) boasts a fascinating history. Originally established by the Order of Christ, the remnants of the Knights Templar, the 39-hectare woodland was enclosed by a wall to serve as both a cultivated area and a serene retreat for the religious order.
This enchanting park features immaculate gardens alongside a lush woodland habitat, with open spaces perfect for leisurely walks among centuries-old cypress, Judas, oak, and olive trees. Be sure to visit the "Charolinha," a unique cylindrical tower and miniature carved stone church, set apart by a moat and accessible only via a stone bridge.
Covão da Ametade
Located within Serra da Estrela Natural Park, east of Coimbra, Covão da Ametade offers a picturesque setting for an autumn getaway. Nestled beneath Portugal's highest mountains, famous for climbing and skiing, this birch forest is one of Europe’s most beautiful wooded areas. Several rivers originate from the mountain heights, converging in diverse valleys throughout the park, including the expansive Zêzere Glacial Valley, where the Zêzere River meanders towards the Tagus River. This journey sustains a vibrant ecosystem centred around the birch trees.
European birch forests are well-known for their unique characteristics, providing both dense shade and open spaces ideal for leisurely strolls among the trunks. Covão da Ametade beautifully embodies this charm.
- Find your holiday rental in the Serra da Estrela Natural Park
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Laurisilva Forest
For our final entry on the best forests in Portugal, we venture to Madeira, specifically the Laurisilva Forest within Madeira Natural Park. Approaching by air, the rugged mountains, steep cliffs, and deep ravines evoke scenes reminiscent of Jurassic Park. Millions of years ago, similar laurel forests covered much of southern Europe, but today, this vegetation is restricted to the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands, with Madeira hosting the largest surviving laurel forest.
You could spend months exploring the hidden nooks and crannies of this unique ecosystem without exhausting its stunning views. The forest remains largely untouched, with many trees, some over 800 years old, thriving undisturbed. Recognised for its natural beauty, the Laurisilva Forest was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999. While most trees are evergreen, meaning you won't see the typical autumn colours, the raw beauty of this remarkable location is sure to leave you in awe.
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