Hiking in Portugal

There are plenty of trails for keen hikers to explore in Portugal, including some spectacular long-distance routes.

Chief among them is the Rota Vicentina, a 450-kilometer trail along the southwest coast. Check out the incredible cliffs at Cabo de Sao Vicente on the southern tip, and then work your way up north. Go inland on the so-called Historical Way or try the Fisherman’s Trail along the coast.

The Parque Nacional de Penada-Geres is the only such park in Portugal, situated in the northwest of the country. Check out the viewpoint at Pedra Bela or try the four-hour Trilho da Cidade da Calcedonia trail.

Found in one of the most isolated parts of the country, the Montesinho Natural Park feels like a real wilderness. You might not even see any other hikers as you explore the many trails.

Slightly busier, the trails in the southern Algarve region allow hikers to combine their exercise with some relaxing time on the beach. It’s a popular destination for travelers of all stripes, but serious hikers can tackle the 300-kilometer Via Algarviana.

The island of Madeira is another popular hiking destination thanks to its spectacularly jagged volcanic peaks. Try the trails around Pico Ruivo to appreciate the unique geography of the island.