Top 5 Hiking Trails in Portugal You Shouldn't Miss

Portugal is a hiker's paradise, offering a variety of landscapes, from rugged coastlines to serene mountain ranges. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a nature lover seeking a new adventure, the country's trails offer an immersive experience in both its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

With over 17 years of experience in tourism, Paulo, the founder of Farol Discover, has carefully hand-picked these five exceptional hiking trails. These trails showcase the best that Portugal has to offer and are perfect for anyone eager to explore the country on foot.

Rota Vicentina - Fisherman's Trail: Zambujeira do Mar to Odeceixe🔗

Stretching along the Alentejo and Algarve coastline, the Fisherman’s Trail is often considered one of the most stunning coastal hiking routes in Portugal. This section, from Zambujeira do Mar to Odeceixe, offers spectacular views of untouched beaches, steep cliffs, and natural wonders that make it a favorite among experienced hikers and nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Traverse pristine beaches like Alteirinhos, Carvalhal, and Machados.
• Marvel at the geological formations of the ancient dark rocks along the cliffs, with their fascinating vertical folds.
• Spot the signs of nocturnal mammals such as the otter, badger, and genets, although these creatures are rarely seen during the day.
• Enjoy one of the most breathtaking views in Portugal: Odeceixe Beach from the vantage point of Ponta em Branco.

Where to Start:

• The trail can begin at either Zambujeira do Mar (north) or Odeceixe (south). Both starting points are fully marked.

Tip from Paulo:

"The Fisherman's Trail is one of my favorites because of its raw, natural beauty. The cliffs, beaches, and rock formations along the way are just stunning. It’s the perfect way to experience the unspoiled side of Portugal's coastline."

For a shorter version of this hike, you can skip the 4 km stretch of asphalt road between Odeceixe and the northern end of Odeceixe Beach by taking a taxi.

Rota Vicentina - Historical Way: Carrapateira to Vila do Bispo🔗

The Historical Way of the Rota Vicentina transports hikers through the heart of the rural Algarve, away from the coastline, but no less breathtaking. This stretch from Carrapateira to Vila do Bispo offers dramatic views of the inland valleys and remote, scarcely populated villages.

Highlights:

• Start the hike with sweeping views of the Bordeira Beach, one of the longest and most picturesque stretches of sand in the region.
• Discover the serene valleys and the charming villages of Vilarinha and Pedralva, where the presence of humans is minimal, offering a peaceful, isolated trek.
• As you approach Vila do Bispo, prepare for the strong Atlantic winds and wide-open landscapes.
• This area is rich in biodiversity, with the chance to observe flora like the strawberry tree and cork oak, and fauna including the rare Triops vicentinus, a shrimp-like creature that dates back to the age of the dinosaurs.

Where to Start:

• The trail can be started in either direction, from Carrapateira or Vila do Bispo. Both directions offer well-marked paths.

Tip from Paulo:

"One of the things I love about this part of the Historical Way is starting at Bordeira Beach. It's one of the longest and most stunning stretches of sand in the Algarve, and because it's so wide, it feels like you’ve got the whole place to yourself, especially at low tide. As you head inland towards Vilarinha and Pedralva, it’s like stepping into another world—so quiet and remote, you barely see anyone. The contrast between the beach and the rugged, isolated countryside is just incredible."

Via Algarviana: Alcoutim to Balurcos🔗

For those seeking a less-traveled path, the Via Algarviana, particularly the section from Alcoutim to Balurcos, offers a historical and cultural journey through the Algarve's interior. This trail begins by the Guadiana River and takes hikers through a landscape shaped by ancient civilizations.

Highlights:

• Start your hike at the scenic village of Alcoutim, with its rich history tied to the Guadiana River and smuggling.
• Wander through ancient settlements, observing the remnants of stone walls and the timeless rural life of almond, carob, and olive trees.
• Pass by the impressive Menires do Lavajo, a collection of prehistoric standing stones, and discover the remains of ancient habitations built with schist and greywacke.
• The area's biodiversity is astounding, with birdwatchers likely to spot the Bonelli's eagle or the colorful European bee-eater.

Where to Start:

• Begin your hike at the riverside town of Alcoutim, making your way west toward Balurcos.

Tip from Paulo:

"My grandmother was from a small village near Alcoutim, so I’ve spent a lot of time in the area. I know the people and the land really well, and it’s always felt special to me. The Smugglers’ Route is also full of these fascinating stories—about people sneaking goods across the Guadiana River—it adds a unique layer to the hike that’s both fun and different from other trails."

Via Algarviana: Salir to Alte🔗

This section of the Via Algarviana offers a beautiful combination of natural beauty and rural charm. Starting in Salir and ending in the picturesque village of Alte, this hike showcases some of the Algarve’s most significant natural landmarks and quaint villages.

Highlights:

• Explore the ruins of the medieval castle in Salir before embarking on the trail.
• As you progress, you’ll pass through charming rural settlements, many of which still maintain their traditional agricultural practices.
• Enjoy the scenery of Rocha da Pena, a stunning natural monument with its remarkable cliffs and caves. The area is home to over 500 plant species and various types of wildlife.
• The hike concludes in the charming village of Alte, known for its traditional Algarvean architecture and the famous Vigário waterfall.

Where to Start:

• The trail starts in Salir and heads towards Alte, a village known for its spring waters and traditional handicrafts.

Tip from Paulo:

"Salir is an amazing place, not just for its natural beauty, but for its deep historical roots. You’ve got remnants of an old Islamic settlement, like the Almohad towers and walls that are now part of the town’s fabric. Walking around here, you can see traces of the past, from ancient silos to medieval fortifications. And what most people don’t know is that they recently discovered fossils of a giant salamander from the dinosaur era nearby—it’s incredible! It just shows that this area has been a crossroads for civilizations and nature for millions of years."

Via Algarviana: Monchique to Marmelete🔗

The final sector of the Via Algarviana is a challenging yet rewarding hike through the mountainous terrain of Monchique, ending in the quaint village of Marmelete. This trail takes you through thick forests and past remote agricultural terraces that have shaped the landscape for centuries.

Highlights:

• Start at the Monchique Tourism Office and ascend towards the Convent of Nossa Senhora do Desterro for some of the best views over the village and its surrounding hills.
• As you climb towards Fóia, the highest peak in the Algarve, enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills and the distant ocean.
• Along the way, pass through beautiful valleys, past small mountain villages like Vale da Moita and Barbelote.
• Marvel at the ancient terraces, constructed by local farmers to cultivate the steep mountainsides.

Where to Start:

• The trail begins in Monchique and ends in the small village of Marmelete. It’s a steep climb, but the views are worth every step.

Tip from Paulo:

"This trail is one of the most rewarding in the Algarve. The climb up through Monchique’s dense forests is tough, but once you reach the higher ground near Fóia, the views are absolutely worth it. You can see the rolling hills, the coastline in the distance, and pass through small villages that still hold onto their traditions. It’s a real escape into the heart of the Algarve’s rugged beauty."

These five trails are only a glimpse of what Portugal’s hiking scene has to offer. Each trail presents a unique opportunity to experience the country's natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and deep historical roots. Led by Paulo, a seasoned hiker with extensive tourism experience, Farol Discover aims to offer guided hikes that delve beyond the surface, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in Portugal's wonders. Whether you're drawn to coastal cliffs, serene valleys, or ancient forests, these trails are an experience not to be missed.

Looking for a hiking adventure? Farol Discover offers personalized tours, led by experienced guides, to ensure you make the most of your time exploring these incredible trails.