Hiking in Portugal: The Best Trails and Regions

Portugal is a superb hiking destination, with trails along wild Atlantic cliffs, through ancient laurel forests on volcanic islands, up Portugal’s highest mountains and into its only national park. Here are the best places to hike in Portugal, and what you need to know before you go.

Quick answer: the top hiking regions are Madeira (levadas and the Pico Ruivo summit trail; book your slot, from €4.50), the Rota Vicentina on the southwest coast, Peneda-Gerês in the north, the Azores (including climbing Mount Pico), the Algarve’s Seven Hanging Valleys and Serra da Estrela. Spring and autumn are the best seasons.

The best hiking regions

Madeira

Levadas (irrigation channels) through laurel forest and the spectacular Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo summit trail. Since 2026, all official trails need a booked slot and fee. See Madeira levada walks.

The Rota Vicentina

A 750km network on the southwest coast, including the Fishermen’s Trail along the clifftops and the inland Historical Way. No permits needed. See Costa Vicentina.

Peneda-Gerês National Park

Granite mountains, waterfalls, river pools and stone villages in the far north. See Peneda-Gerês.

The Azores

Crater lakes, coastal paths and Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest mountain (register and pay the fee to climb). See Pico and São Jorge.

The Algarve

The Seven Hanging Valleys clifftop trail, Ponta da Piedade and the hills of Monchique. See Algarve hikes.

Serra da Estrela

Mainland Portugal’s highest mountains, with glacial valleys and lakes. See Serra da Estrela.

Sintra and Arrábida

Forest trails between Sintra’s palaces, and coastal paths in the Arrábida hills near Lisbon. See Sintra and Arrábida.

The Schist Villages

Trails linking stone villages in the Lousã mountains. See the historic and schist villages.

When to hike

• Spring (March to May): wildflowers and mild temperatures. The best season.
• Autumn (September to November): pleasant temperatures and golden light.
• Summer: very hot inland and in the south; hike early, or head to the islands and mountains.
• Winter: good in the Algarve and Madeira; snow in Serra da Estrela.

Safety tips

• Check trail status before you go, especially in Madeira after storms.
• Stay back from cliff edges on coastal trails.
• Carry water, sun protection and layers; mountain weather changes fast.
• Wildfire season: follow closures in summer.
• Emergency: call 112.

More: the Portugal packing list and wildlife in Portugal.

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