The Best Trails for Hiking in Portugal in 2025

Hiking in Portugal is a dream for many nature lovers, with thousands of scenic trails stretching across mountains, coastlines, forests, and islands. Popular hiking spots include the Peneda-Gerês National Park, the Rota Vicentina long-distance trail, and the Seven Hanging Valleys trail in the Algarve. Madeira Island is also known for its unique hiking experiences.

Whether you’re looking for a short family-friendly walk, a challenging week-long trek, or a peaceful nature escape, you’ll find plenty of well-marked paths and breathtaking views.

With its mild climate and wide variety of landscapes, Portugal is perfect for hiking all year round. Below, we explore some of our favorite routes to help you plan your next hiking adventure.

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Along the Algarve Coast

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is one of the best hikes Portugal offers along its rugged coastline. Located in the Algarve region, this famous hike in Portugal offers unmatched scenic beauty, passing through limestone cliffs and featuring breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Over the years, the coastline has been molded and shaped by the powerful forces of the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in the stunning sea caves that exist today.

These intriguing natural rock formations can be enjoyed on this hike. Following this 12 km (about 7.5 miles) trail is suitable for all levels and is a fantastic way to explore the seven caves along the Algarve coast.

The Algarve coastal path trail begins at the rugged cliffs of Carvoeiro and stretches all the way to Praia da Marinha. Along the trail, you’ll come across Benagil Beach and Carvalho Beach. Benagil Beach is most famous for its sea cave, which is only accessible by boat, and it’s certainly worth a visit to see the distinctive hole in its roof.

The area surrounding the beach offers places to rent paddleboards and boats to truly enjoy the best views of the impressive cave from the ocean. It’s certainly one of the most beautiful sea caves you will come across, so make sure to take full advantage of the sites when visiting the Algarve region.

Cabo da Roca to Azenhas do Mar Coastal Trail (Sintra-Cascais Natural Park)

Another of Portugal’s fantastic coastal hikes is located in Sintra, a place known for its colorful charm. The route begins in Cabo do Roca and is easily accessible from Lisbon and Cascais. You will wander through a selection of beautiful beaches until you come across Azenhas do Mar, known for its typical Portuguese whitewashed houses overlooking the stunning sea.

The walk continues for a total of just under 11km (7 miles), taking you on a journey along the edge of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The park itself offers a variety of hiking trails with unforgettable panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding mountains that will remain in your memories (and in your phone’s picture folders) long after the hike ends.

Another hike worth mentioning in the area is Cabo da Roca to Praia da Ursa, a shorter loop trail in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The trail is about 3km (just under 2 miles) long, but is considered a bit challenging, with some rocky parts and steep sections. However, the coastal views you’re rewarded with make the hike worth it.

Rota Vincentina

Next on our list is a coastal route known as the Rota Vincentina or the Fisherman’s Trail. This long-distance trail stretches along the southwestern coast of Portugal.

Its name comes from the fact that, while it’s a picturesque hike along the Portuguese coastline, it offers hikers the opportunity to visit charming fishing villages along the way. These places are steeped in Portuguese history, perfect spots to make a pit stop and learn about the country while refueling on fresh fish.

Suitable for all levels, this coastal hike begins at Cabo de São Vicente, the southernmost tip of Europe. You’ll start with stunning views of the coastline that stretch into the distance, and if you need a more manageable route, the trail offers some easier sections. For unrivaled natural beauty in southern Portugal, this is the hike for you.

25 Fontes Hike (Madeira Island)

For this hike, the explanation lies in its name: 25 Fontes (25 Waterfalls). The trail takes you on a tour of 25 spectacular waterfalls on the island of Madeira, an archipelago comprising four islands off the northwest coast of Africa.

This island is famous for its network of levadas (irrigation channels or aqueducts), which provide a unique hiking experience, set against the background of the island’s volcanic landscapes and lush vegetation.

As you can imagine, this is the most popular hike in Madeira, attracting tourists from across the globe with its promise of 25 different waterfalls. The trail is suitable for all levels, continues for about 11km (about 7 miles), and can take between three and four hours to complete.

This is certainly a day hike, as the waterfalls are best enjoyed when the sun makes their waters sparkle. You should also plan to take some time to relax beside some of the waterfalls and explore the beautiful landscapes that you’ll pass through. It’s definitely worth adding a bit of extra time to your hike to soak it all in. The cost of living in Madeira, Portugal, is also quite affordable, without sacrificing on the quality of life, making it a top destination to visit – or even to relocate to.

Paiva Walkways

The Pavia Walkways, known as passadiços do Paiva in Portuguese, are a great way to enjoy the more rural side of Portugal. These walkways are popular among those looking to explore Portugal a little further away from the coast and take in the peaceful countryside.

The walk is 8km (5 miles) and is not too challenging for hikers. A unique feature is the wooden walkways that display the Paia River and Portuguese countryside with some breathtaking views. Located in Arouca, an area southeast of the city of Porto, this trail passes several river spots that are great for swimming in summer when the Portuguese sun is at its warmest.

Trilha de Mistérios Negros (Terceira Island, Azores)

The Azores archipelago should be added to every hiker’s itinerary when hiking in Portugal. With lush volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and misty forests, all hikes are sure to offer one-of-a-kind views. One of the more unique trails is the Trilha de Mistérios Negros on Terceira Island.

This trail’s name translates to “Trail of the Black Mysteries,” a nod to the dark volcanic terrain and the mysterious atmosphere of the area. It’s a circular route of about 5km (3 miles) and is considered moderately challenging due to uneven terrain and areas of dense forest.

The trail winds through a protected natural reserve where you’ll walk among volcanic domes, native Azorean trees, moss-covered rocks, and even pass by old lava flows. Because of the rich vegetation and the moisture in the air, the area often feels like a fairytale forest, especially when the fog rolls in.

The Mistérios Negros hike is best done with sturdy hiking shoes, as parts can get muddy, and it’s recommended to check weather conditions before heading out.

Peneda-Gerês National Park

Peneda-Gerês, the only national park in Portugal, is a nature lover’s paradise in the country’s far north. It’s a great destination for multi-day hikes and offers options for both beginners and experienced hikers. With lush forests, granite peaks, and ancient villages, this region offers a very different hiking experience than the coast or islands.

A great hike here is the Trilho da Cidade da Calcedónia (Trail of Cidade da Calcedónia), a moderately difficult loop of about 8km (about 5 miles). The trail takes you through beautiful rural landscapes and ends with panoramic views from the Calcedónia rock formations.

Another popular route is the Trilho dos Currais (Currais Trail) a scenic 10 km loop that starts in Gerês village. This is a great hike for animal lovers as you could spot wild Garrano horses or even ibex if you’re lucky. For a relaxed, scenic walking trail in Portugal’s one national park, Passadiço do Sistelo (Sistelo Boardwalks) trail offers views of the river and surrounding forests.

Arrábida Nature Park

Just a short drive from Lisbon, the Arrábida Nature Park offers views of dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches, and limestone caves.

One of the top trails here is the Serra do Risco Trail, which runs along the highest coastal cliffs in mainland Portugal.

It’s around 5km (3 miles) long. The cliffs drop steeply to the Atlantic, so it’s best suited for confident hikers.

If you’re after something gentler, try the Portinho da Arrábida to Praia de Galápos trail. This is an easy walk along beautiful beaches with chances for swimming in crystal-clear water.

Alentejo

The Alentejo region offers a variety of hiking opportunities, including tranquil trails through rolling hills, vineyards, and ancient olive groves. While it may not be as famous for hiking as the Algarve or Madeira, it’s full of peaceful, off-the-beaten-path trails.

Try the Rota Vicentina’s Historical Way as it crosses into the northern Alentejo. The section from Santiago do Cacém to Cercal do Alentejo (about 18km or 11 miles) offers a mix of cork forests, farmland, and charming villages.

Another option is the Serra d’Ossa trails near Redondo, where shorter loop trails (around 5–8km or 2-5 miles) take you through oak woods and offer peaceful views over the plains.

Serra da Estrela

The Serra da Estrela is home to mainland Portugal’s highest mountains and offers a completely different kind of hike. Often called the “Mountains of the Stars”, it is snowy in winter, alpine in feel, and features beautiful glacial valleys.

One of the most popular routes is the Torre to Covão d’Ametade trail. This hike begins at Torre, the highest point in mainland Portugal, and follows a 6km (3.7 mile) path descending to a glacial valley.

If you’re up for more of a challenge, try the Poço do Inferno loop trail, a moderate 7km (4.3 mile) hike near Manteigas. It passes a small waterfall, pine forests, and offers views of the stunning Zêzere Glacier Valley.

Tips for Planning a Hiking Trip in Portugal

If this list of Portugal trail ideas is igniting your adventurous side, it’s important to know that the best hike of all is a safe one. 

Here are some tips and advice for ensuring a safe experience when trying out the best hiking trips in Portugal:

1. Research your trails thoroughly. Use local websites to find trails that match your experience level, and make sure you have a clear idea of where the trail goes, to avoid getting lost. 
2. Consider your fitness level. Some trails are more challenging than others, so avoid choosing trails that are too challenging, especially if hiking alone or in small groups. 
3. Check weather conditions and prepare accordingly. Portugal can experience varying weather conditions, especially in the high mountainous areas and islands.
4. Carry essential supplies, including enough water, nutritious snacks, sunscreen, a map, and a first-aid kit. 
5. Respect the environment. Follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on marked trails, and minimize any negative impact on nature.
6. Inform someone of your hiking plans, so that if something goes wrong, they will know to call for help.
7. If you are going on long hikes, it can be a good idea to seek advice from local authorities, such as Turismo de Portugal.

In Summary

As you can see, Portugal hiking trails offer a variety of short- and long-distance hiking that can be adapted to suit all levels.

Whether you’re looking for spectacular hikes near Lisbon, Porto, or along the coastal way, the best hikes in Portugal are waiting for you.

The stunning scenery in the country is one of the key drivers of Portugal’s tourism sector, which continues to flourish.

With so many hiking trails, you’re surely eager to strap on your hiking boots and go on a fantastic Portugal hiking adventure!

Goldcrest: Who We Are and How We Can Help You

If you’re planning to spend some time in Portugal to experience the best hikes and activities, or perhaps even planning to relocate to the beautiful country, contact Goldcrest to help you find a property to rent or buy.

We are a local buyer’s agent situated in Portugal and provide insightful real estate expertise and strategic advice. From sourcing to property acquisition, we help clients identify outstanding investment opportunities in some of Portugal’s finest locations.

Whether you’re a family looking to relocate or invest in land for redevelopment, our team of experts provides professional services to help you find the right property without the hassle or fuss. Contact us to get the ball rolling.