Portugal is a fantastic destination for hiking, offering a mix of dramatic coastlines, peaceful countryside, and rugged mountains. From the north to the south, the country has a wide variety of landscapes, each with its own unique charm. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, you’ll find plenty of routes to suit your pace and interests.
One of the most iconic hikes is the Rota Vicentina, a network of trails in southwestern Portugal that includes the Fishermen’s Trail, hugging the wild Atlantic coast. With breathtaking ocean views, cliffside paths, and charming villages, this area combines natural beauty with a taste of traditional Portuguese life. It’s especially popular in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom.
In the north, the Peneda-Gerês National Park offers a completely different experience. As Portugal’s only national park, it’s known for its granite mountains, waterfalls, forests, and ancient Roman roads. It’s a great place to spot wildlife and enjoy more remote, challenging hikes. For those seeking something in between, the Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest mountain range, provides a mix of open plateaus, glacial valleys, and panoramic views.
Beyond the mainland, the Azores and Madeira islands are also top spots for hiking. Madeira, in particular, is famous for its levadas—narrow irrigation channels that double as scenic trails through lush forests and steep cliffs. Overall, hiking in Portugal means discovering the country at a slower pace, with the reward of quiet moments in nature, friendly encounters, and unforgettable views.
When is the best time to go hiking in Portugal ?
- Spring : Hikers can enjoy blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures, perfect for exploring trails like the Pico de Arieiro in Madeira.
- Summer : In inland areas, due to high temperatures that can exceed 40°C, hiking is less favorable. However, you can enjoy coastal trails like the Seven Hanging Valleys in the Algarve in the early mornings or late evenings.
- Autumn : This season provides a different charm, with the addes bonus of witnessing the harvest season in regions such as Douro Valley where vineyards and olive groves are active.
- Winter : It can be quite unpredictable, with quite a low of rain and cooler temperatures, mainly in northern and mountainous regions. Still, you can enjoy a hike in one of the islands of Portugal.
What are the best hikes to do in Portugal ?
- Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo - Madeira : This challenging trail connects two of Madeira's highest peaks, offering breathtaking views of the island's rugged terrain. It's considered one of the most iconic hikes in Madeira.
- Levada do Caldeirão Verde - Madeira : Following a traditional irrigation channel, this trail leads hikers through lush forests to the stunning Caldeirão Verde waterfall. The path is known for its tunnels and verdant scenery.
- 25 Fontes and Risco Waterfall - Madeira : A popular hike that takes you through the Laurisilva forest to a series of springs and waterfalls. The trail is well-maintained and offers a refreshing experience amidst nature.
- Pico da Vara - Azores : As the highest point on São Miguel Island, this trail offers panoramic views and traverses through the protected Laurisilva forest, home to unique flora and fauna.
- Fajã de Lopo Vaz - Azores : This trail descends to one of the oldest inhabited areas of Flores Island, passing through lush vegetation and offering coastal views.
- Caldeirão - Azores : A hike around the massive volcanic crater on Corvo Island, providing stunning views of the crater's lake and the island's unique landscape.
- Lagoa do Fogo - Azores : This trail leads to a pristine crater lake, offering hikers a mix of mountainous terrain and serene waterside paths.
- Rota Vicentina – Fishermen’s Trail - Portugal : This renowned coastal trail stretches along the southwestern coast, offering dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and charming fishing villages. It's a favorite among hikers for its natural beauty and well-marked paths.
- Peneda-Gerês National Park - Portugal : As Portugal's only national park, Peneda-Gerês boasts ancient Roman roads, dense forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Trails like the Mata da Albergaria provide a glimpse into the region's rich biodiversity.
- Serra da Estrela - Portugal : Home to the country's highest peak, this mountain range offers alpine landscapes, glacial valleys, and traditional villages. Hikes here range from moderate walks to challenging ascents.
What type of trip is offered ?
- Self-guided holiday in the Portugal : Self-guided holidays allow you to go on tours as a couple, with friends or family on the dates of your choice. Before your departure, we reserve your hotels and provide you with all the necessary documents for your trip, including a detailed roadbook, a route map and vouchers for nights' accommodation. You can thus enjoy your trek in complete peace of mind, without worrying about the logistical organization.
- Guided holidays : Going in a group means living an experience together with participants you don't know before leaving. It also means being supervised by a mountain guide from the country who is a specialist in the region who will pass on all his knowledge of the mountain and the hiking route to you.
Why choose La Vie Sauvage for your next trip to Portugal ?
When you go with La Vie Sauvage, you get an all-inclusive package, including hotel reservations, transfers and practical advice on how to explore Portugal in the best possible conditions. Our holidays are designed to offer you total immersion in nature, with carefully selected itineraries and quality supervision.
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