Are you passionate about the paths of Portugal but do not really know what tracks to do? It's quite normal. From north to south, there are hundreds of walking routes available that are not always remembered.
From the mountain, to the forest or the river, Excelente gives you a complete list of the best routes that make our country a unique place to discover. Scroll through the list gathered by Excelente and start planning your next weekend's activity.
Paiva Walkways, Arouca
Located on the left bank of the Paiva River and integrated in the Arouca Geopark, the Paiva Walkways extend over 8 km to offer an incredible experience with nature. This trail, which connects Espiunca to Areinho, is mainly suspended in structures and is accompanied by rocky and steep slopes.
The route can be done in both directions, it is also possible to go back because it is a linear trail and not circular. The Paiva Walkways were inaugurated in June 2015 and, since then, many visitors have been there. The route has also collected several tourist awards such as the World Travel Awards.
Distance: 8 km
Google Maps
Fishermen's Trail (Rota Vicentina), Odemira, Alentejo
The Alentejo coast is an amazing place, especially when covered on foot and enjoying the Rota Vicentina and all the surrounding scenery.
The Fisherman's Trail is a trail along the coastline, passing through the paths travelled by fishermen and locals. This route has several sections that you can choose from, depending on the kilometres you are willing to travel. This is undoubtedly one of the richest and most beautiful walking trails you can take in Portugal.
Distance: 9-20 km
Google Maps
Route of the Moorish Boulders, Gouveia, Guarda
The Route of the Moorish Boulders crosses the parishes of Nespereira, Arcozelo, Rio Torto and Vinhó in a circular route rich in areas of archaeological interest. In the area of the Moorish boulders you will be able to observe two anthropomorphic graves carved on top of a rock.
The diverse fauna and flora, which you can find along the entire route, is one of the aspects that makes this trail one of the most beautiful in Portugal.
Distance: 20,26 km
Google Maps
Trails of the historic village of Piódão, Arganil, Coimbra
Also known as the Crib Village, Piodão is one of the oldest and most beautiful villages in Portugal.
The houses of shale and slate roof, which run along the slope of the mountains, make everyone fall in love. For this reason, one of the best ways to get to know this village is to walk its idyllic paths.
These walking routes have a little steep slope, with a few exceptions. At the end of the walk, you can take the opportunity to rest and delight yourself with the famous gastronomic products that are produced there.
Distance: 6,7 km
Google Maps
Trails of the Coastal Geopark of Viana do Castelo
The trails of the coastal geopark of Viana do Castelo offer a visit to five geosites by the sea. The places you should not miss if you take these routes are the Iron Age salt pans and the cave paintings of Fornelos beach.
A part of the route of the Litoral Geopark of Viana do Castelo is done on a coastal walkway, always next to the coast, which provides a fantastic stroll.
Distance: 6 - 9,3 km
Google Maps
Boar Route, Manteigas, Guarda
With a panoramic view over the village of Manteigas, the Boar Route allows you to invade the interior of beautiful forests, climb to the top of the Leandres stream and go through the Poço do Inferno waterfall.
Along the route, you have the possibility to contemplate the house of the Ranger of Carvalhais and the Moitas Forest Nursery.
Distance: 11 km
Google Maps
Port Wine Trail, Lamego, Alto Douro Wine Region
The Port Wine trail is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful walking routes you can find in Portugal.
This trail allows you to cross the famous vineyards of the Alto Douro wine region, classified as a world heritage site by UNESCO since 2001.
With the Douro River always present while walking through the rural and agricultural paths that delimit the famous vineyards, you will be able to discover more about this region that has been producing wine for more than two thousand years.
Distance: 7,8 km
Google Maps
Granite Lands Trail, Mata da Penoita, Viseu
The Granite Lands trail crosses the forest of the Vouga Caramulo Natural Park, in the municipality of Viseu. On this route, there are paths and trails carved in granitic stone, as the name of the trail indicates.
Although you can make the trail at any time of the year, the most beautiful time is in autumn and late winter, as the water rises in the reservoirs, making the landscapes even more incredible.
Distance: 8 km
Google Maps
Prehistoric Circuit Fiais/Azenha, Carregal do Sal, Viseu
The Prehistoric Circuit Fiais/Azenha is one of the trails where you can find a greater amount of evidence of human presence in prehistory. The trail is well signposted and contains several explanatory panels.
In addition to the archaeological beauty of the route, you will still be able to admire the beauty of the Mondego River as you make your way.
Distance: 4 km
Google Maps
Trail of Drave Village, Arouca Geopark, Aveiro
The Drave village, an uninhabited village since the beginning of the 16th century, is located in the heart of Serra da Freita, in the Arouca Geopark.
This is one of the most beautiful and most representative walking routes of the countryside. Its location, dilapidated houses and all the surrounding environment call for a visit.
The route, called “The magic village”, is a must walk for lovers of walking trails, allowing you to better understand the past and present of this village. The trail starts in the village of Regoufe, passes Drave village and ends at the starting point.
Distance: 8 km
Google Maps