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Best difficult hiking trails in Portugal
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Best difficult hiking trails in Portugal

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

Here are some great trails to explore in Portugal.

Most popular trails

1

Difficult

PR 6 Levada das 25 Fontes

Calheta, Portugal · star 5.0 (6) · 8.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 38 min

2

Difficult

Levada do Norte

Câmara de Lobos, Portugal · star 0.0 (0) · 9.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 54 min

3

Difficult

PR 1-2 Pico Ruivo Footpath

Santana, Portugal · star 5.0 (4) · 5.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 44 min

4

Difficult

PR 11 Vereda dos Balcões

Santana, Portugal · star 5.0 (2) · 2.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 0 min

5

Difficult

Levada do Caniçal

Machico, Portugal · star 0.0 (0) · 5.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 34 min

6

Difficult

PR 3-1 Royal Way of the Mount

Funchal, Portugal · star 5.0 (3) · 7.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 32 min

7

Difficult

PR 14 Levada dos Cedros

Porto Moniz, Portugal · star 0.0 (0) · 6.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 8 min

8

Difficult

PR 6-3 Path of Lagoa do Vento

Calheta, Portugal · star 5.0 (2) · 6.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 56 min

9

Difficult

PR 10 Levada do Furado

Santana, Portugal · star 0.0 (0) · 7.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 24 min

10

Difficult

PR 8 Footpath of Ponta de S Lourenço

Machico, Portugal · star 5.0 (7) · 7.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 8 min

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Reviews for hiking trails in Portugal

Rory Hynds avatar

PR 6 Levada das 25 Fontes

Rory Hynds · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

There is a good bit of climbing, especially on the return leg of this route. Bring swimming gear if you fancy a dip.

No reviews available for Levada do Norte.

Rory Hynds avatar

PR 1-2 Pico Ruivo Footpath

Rory Hynds · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Much more difficult than expected but the views are amazing.

Martijn Briët avatar

PR 11 Vereda dos Balcões

Martijn Briët · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Levada do Caniçal.

Frequently asked questions

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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