Take a deep breath on trails and hikes in Portugal

Walking is one of the easiest ways of getting a change of scenery, exercising your body and clearing your mind all at once. All you need to do is pick a trail, take some water, wear the right footwear and allow time for breaks. In Portugal, every region boasts interesting spots that can be discovered on foot, each with its own unique characteristics. There are granite mountains in the North, rivers carved into the landscape in the Centro region, nature parks by the sea, the plain fields of the Alentejo and islands where the paths wind alongside water channels (levadas), craters and green slopes. 

Some routes need prep and a good sense of direction; others are accessible and offer a short hike between a hearty breakfast at the hotel and a late lunch.

Currais trail, Peneda-Gerês

In the Peneda-Gerês National Park, the Currais Trail is a good way of experiencing high-altitude landscapes without turning the day into an expedition. Starting at Pitões das Júnias, this short route follows mountain paths used for centuries by shepherds, winding through stone walls, Portuguese brooms, oak trees and sweeping views of the Barroso mountains.

It’s a circular route of about 10 kilometres, with some uneven areas underfoot, so it’s best to wear walking boots or trainers with good grip. Walk slowly, allow for time to enjoy viewpoints and finish the day by the Caniçada reservoir. The Pousada Caniçada-Gerês is a good base for exploring this part of the park – the hotel in Peneda-Gerês National Park is housed in a mountain chalet overlooking the River Cávado.

Paiva Walkways, Arouca

Along the left bank of the River Paiva, between Areinho and Espiunca, the Paiva Walkways wind their way through eight kilometres of rapids, rocky slopes and riverside vegetation. It’s a super scenic route that begs for a camera at the ready: the Paiva Gorge, the Aguieiras Waterfall, the Vau river beach and various other spots where the river makes an impression.

With the route being linear, it’s worth sorting out logistics before setting off – including transport at the end, if you don’t wish to return by the same route. The hike takes around two and a half to three hours, with some challenging sections, including stairs; tickets have to be bought in advance.

To extend your holiday getaway, the Pestana Palácio do Freixo in Porto offers historic headquarters on the banks of the Douro, housed in an 18th-century Baroque palace, classified as a National Monument, which offers a wonderful view over the river.

Covão dos Conchos, Serra da Estrela

This is one of the most recognisable attractions in the Serra da Estrela: a circular structure which seems like it’s opening a huge drain in the middle of Lagoa Comprida. In fact, Covão dos Conchos is the entrance of a tunnel built in the 1950s to transport water between two lakes. However, the way it blends into the landscape has made it one of the most popular hiking destinations in these mountains.

The most common route begins in the Lagoa Comprida area, followed by dirt and stone paths, covering a round trip of approximately 10 kilometres. Although not technically difficult, it’s exposed to the altitude, wind and rapid weather changes, good enough reasons not to underestimate the return journey. The Pousada Serra da Estrela – a historic hotel in Serra da Estrela –  is housed in a century-old building, finely restored by the architect Souto de Moura, and the perfect place to swap the mountain chill for an indoor swimming pool, sauna and a good night’s sleep.

The São Filipe Slopes Trail, Setúbal

For a short hike that offers sea views without venturing too far south, the São Filipe Slopes Trail is an excellent choice. The short PR1 STB route starts and finishes at Albarquel Urban Park, covering around four kilometres along the paths surrounding São Filipe Fort, among pine forests, the sea and views of Setúbal, Tróia and the Arrábida Mountains.

This trail is perfect for beginners or for a gentle morning stroll. Saying that, it’s well worth climbing just to stop and enjoy the view over the bay. It can also be combined with a visit to the Livramento Market, a seafood lunch in Setúbal or a dip at a beach in the Arrábida Mountains. The Pousada Castelo Palmela is ideally situated for exploring the uplands, the Sado estuary and the vineyards found in the Setúbal Peninsula – not to mention the fact that this hotel in Palmela is housed in the cloisters of the former convent, which forms part of the castle.

The Fishermen’s Trail, Costa Vicentina

The Fishermen’s Trail follows the south-western Portuguese coast along sandy paths, cliffs, beaches with hardly any buildings, and old paths once used by fishermen. The entire route is long – 226.5 kilometres between São Torpes and Cape St Vincent –, but it can be explored in stages or via circular routes, which are easier to pack into a weekend.

A fine option is the stretch between Porto Covo and Vila Nova de Milfontes, which is around 20 kilometres along the Atlantic coast, with dunes, coves and constant views of the sea. The Pestana Porto Covo, housed in a traditional Alentejo house in the centre of the village, allows you to start the day just a few minutes’ walk from the trail.

Seven Hanging Valleys, Algarve

Between Praia da Marinha and Praia do Vale de Centeanes, the Algarve’s Seven Hanging Valleys trail reveals some of the Algarves’ most unique landscapes. The path winds along limestone cliffs, potholes, natural arches, caves and small coves, passing through the Benagil area.

This trail is 5.7 kilometres each way – or about 12 kilometres for the round trip – with uphill and downhill sections, with little shade. Starting early is crucial on the hottest days, and you should avoid getting too close to the cliffs, especially when it’s windy. The Pestana Viking in Armação de Pêra is a good starting point for exploring the Lagoa coast and then returning for a swim or to chill out in the late afternoon by the sea.

Vereda do Areeiro, Madeira

The Vereda do Areeiro, better known as the PR1, connects the Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s two highest points. It’s without doubt a challenging and memorable mountain hike, passing through tunnels carved into the rock and steep stairs, alternating between moments above the clouds and views overlooking the valleys and coast.

The full route requires good fitness and extra attention regarding weather conditions and official trail opening notices – which means it’s best done with a guide. For a less demanding experience, visitors can walk just a few sections near Pico do Areeiro, as long as they are accessible. The Pestana Casino Park in Funchal combines a central location with extensive gardens and is an excellent base from which to organise a day out in the island’s mountains.

Lagoa do Fogo, São Miguel

On the island of São Miguel, the walk to Lagoa do Fogo takes visitors to a landscape that seems to be constantly changing: pastures, rainforest, slopes covered in vegetation and, finally, a blue lagoon nestled in a volcanic caldera. The route along the Praia slope begins near the south coast and climbs up to the edge of the lagoon, revealing the contrast between the ocean and the island’s volcanic interior. 

The route is around 11 kilometres long, with a straight path and a long climb, so it’s best to check access and weather conditions before setting off. Fog can appear quickly, but on a clear day the view over the lagoon is worth the effort. On the south coast of São Miguel, the Pestana Bahia Praia, in Água d’Alto, allows you to combine the hike with days spent at the beach, visiting the thermal spas and exploring the island of São Miguel.