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Best difficult hikes in Portugal
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Best difficult hikes in Portugal

Got your game face on? These difficult hikes are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Portugal.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

GR 22 - Historical Villages Of Portugal

Belmonte, Portugal · star 4.8 (5) · 557.3 km · Est. 32 days

2

Difficult

PR 11 Vereda dos Balcões

Santana, Portugal · star 4.7 (3) · 2.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 0 min

3

Difficult

PR 14 Levada dos Cedros

Porto Moniz, Portugal · star N/A (0) · 6.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 8 min

4

Difficult

PR 6-3 Path of Lagoa do Vento

Calheta, Portugal · star 5.0 (3) · 6.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 55 min

5

Difficult

PR 3 Donkey Path

Santana, Portugal · star 5.0 (2) · 14.9 km · Est. 2 days

6

Difficult

25 Fontes and Risco Waterfalls Walk

Calheta, Portugal · star N/A (0) · 8.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 14 min

7

Difficult

PR 6-1 Levada do Risco

Calheta, Portugal · star 5.0 (2) · 6.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 53 min

8

Difficult

Levada do Paul

Calheta, Portugal · star N/A (0) · 12.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 55 min

9

Difficult

PS PR 2 Path to Pico do Castelo

Vila Baleira, Portugal · star N/A (0) · 8.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 27 min

10

Difficult

Levada do Norte

Câmara de Lobos, Portugal · star N/A (0) · 9.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 54 min

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Reviews for difficult hikes in Portugal

Heather Alderson avatar

GR 22 - Historical Villages Of Portugal

CascadeForester93 · reviewed almost 3 years ago

star star star star star

Martijn Briët avatar

PR 11 Vereda dos Balcões

Martijn Briët · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for PR 14 Levada dos Cedros.

Rory Hynds avatar

PR 6-3 Path of Lagoa do Vento

Rory Hynds · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

This is a beautiful gentle trail with a nice waterfall and swimming area. Can be easily combined with 25 Fontes hike as the return route is essentially the same for both.

David Shinn avatar

PR 3 Donkey Path

David Shinn · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

It's south of the main mountain spine . OK the bus from Funchal goes reasonable near the route on it's way north to Santana.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Portugal

What is the climate like for hiking in Portugal?

Portugal's climate varies greatly, with the coast being milder and the interior hotter. Spring (March-May) offers pleasant temperatures for hiking, though rain can occur. 
The summer (June-August) gets hot, especially in the interior, so coastal trails are preferable
Autumn (September-November) is also suitable for hiking with milder temperatures. Winter hiking is possible, but be aware of occasional rainfall and colder temperatures in the mountains.
https://www.britannica.com/place/Portugal/Climate.

Do I need a permit to hike in Portugal?

For the majority of trails in Portugal, hiking permits are not required. However, in certain protected areas, or for activities such as wild camping, you may need to contact the respective park or local municipality. Check out the Portugal Nature Parks for more information.

Is wild camping allowed in Portugal?

Wild camping in Portugal is generally prohibited, especially in natural parks and protected areas. There are many designated camping spots across the country for outdoor enthusiasts. It's essential to respect local laws and regulations for a sustainable experience. Visit Portugal's Camping Sites for more information.

Are there mountain rescue services in Portugal?

In case of emergencies while hiking in Portugal, contact the National Emergency Number 112. For mountain rescues, the Portuguese Mountain Rescue Team (EPRM) operates under the authority of the National Republican Guard (GNR). More information can be found at the GNR website.

Are there dangerous plants in Portugal?

Portugal's diverse terrain offers a range of flora from coastal Mediterranean shrubs to alpine plants in the mountains. The cork oak, Portugal's national tree, and the lavender fields are particularly impressive. For a detailed guide to Portugal's flora, visit https://theworldofinfo.com/portugal/plants/#:~:text=Portugal%20is%20the%20largest%20producer,include%20rosemary%2C%20thyme%20and%20lavender.&text=Portugal%20has%20quite%20a%20few,the%20blue%20and%20white%20hydrangea..

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Portugal?

Portugal's diverse habitats host numerous species, from boars and foxes in mountainous areas to a rich birdlife along the coast. Also, be aware of mosquitoes in warmer months. Visit the https://a-z-animals.com/animals/location/europe/portugal/ for a comprehensive guide on the country's fauna.

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