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Your Guide to Portugal's Hiking Trails: Photos, Filters, and FAQs

61 Hiking Trails

View Trails on map
Alcoutim Beja Belmonte Calheta Câmara de Lobos Faro Funchal Lisbon Machico Ponta do Sol Porto Moniz Ribeira Brava Santa Cruz Santa Cruz das Flores Santana Santiago do Cacém São Vicente Setúbal Vila Baleira Vila do Porto Viseu
Portugal Static Map Photo 1 Photo 1 Photo 1 Photo 1

What to expect

Portugal has 61 trails including medium and difficult trails. The trail with the highest elevation climb is the PR 8 Footpath of Ponta de S Lourenço and the one with the least climb is the PR 1-2 Pico Ruivo Footpath. The longest trail is Camino Portugues da Costa at 807 km. To complete this hike you should budget at least 40 days. For a shorter adventure, you can try the PR 22 Vereda do Chão dos Louros a t 2.38 km. This could be done in as little as 1 days. Trails with the best offering of hostels include PR 6 Levada das 25 Fontes, PR 21 Northern Path, PR 14 Levada dos Cedros, PR 2 Vereda do Urzal, and PR 3 Donkey Path.

Guide to hiking in Portugal

Be prepared for hiking in Portugal with the HiiKER app

Hiking app for Portugal
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FAQs about hiking 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.