Have you ever dreamed of a different vacation, one that combines nature, history, and stunning landscapes while improving your health? Then, a walking holiday in Portugal is your best option. While this country is not always the first hiking destination that comes to mind, it indeed hides a wide range of landscapes that surprise anyone who explores them. You will find anything, from dramatic cliffs to dreamy forests and villages that look like they are frozen in time. Hiking in Portugal is like discovering a side of Europe that has been hidden from public view.
Orbis Ways: The best way to discover Portugal on foot
It's true that the idea of organizing everything on your own may be overwhelming, especially when it comes to planning a multi-day hiking trip, where you need to take care of accommodations at different stages, luggage transfers, as well as other logistical aspects of the trip. Thankfully, there are specialized agencies that can make the experience a lot easier. Orbis Ways is one of the best options for those who are looking to take a walking holiday in Portugal.
The agency offers complete packages that include accommodation, luggage transport between stages, and detailed maps with tips on the route. This way, you can focus solely on enjoying the trail. Not only that, but the agency has gathered excellent reviews thanks to its personalized services and carefully crafted packages. The agency, Orbis Ways, has earned the trust of travelers from all over the world.
Portugal offers a variety of unique landscapes to explore
The most striking thing about Portugal is the wide range of different terrains you can explore. For example, in the south, the Algarve offers coastal trails packed with reddish cliffs and turquoise waters, creating a contrast that looks like out of a postcard. If you like to explore this area, there's no better route than the iconic Fisherman's Trail, it's part of the Rota Vicentina and stretches 89 kilometers from Porto Covo to Odeceixe.
Further north, the Douro region offers some of the best vineyard views of the country, while Madeira, the island offers trails that are packed with laurel and hidden waterfalls. Even the interior of the country has a unique charm with its golden plains and medieval towns. Each route is an opportunity to connect with nature and the local culture authentically.
The best part of a walking holiday in Algarve is Portugal's amazing weather, its mild climate is almost all year round for you to enjoy. Unlike other countries on the continent where the seasons are stronger, here it's a lot calmer. In Spring and autumn, the temperatures are mild, which is perfect for long walks without the extreme heat or cold. Even during the winter months, regions like the Algarve maintain pleasant and sunny weather.
While in July and August some areas can get too hot, it's not a thing that can stop you from going outside, also, you will always have the sea breeze on the coast to cool you off. It's as if the country was designed for walkers to enjoy at any time of year.
Walking in Portugal isn't just a physical exercise; it's also a sensory journey. Each region in the country has its own unique identity, and it reflects in its architecture, traditions, and, of course, the food. A must-try is a dish of cod à brás; visit a local family-run tavern to get the full experience. On the other hand, make sure you try a freshly baked pastel de nata in a Lisbon pastry shop. But don't forget about wine, Portugal is well known for its good wine.
Well-marked trails and infrastructure designed for hikers
One of the advantages of hiking in Portugal is the excellent signage and maintenance of many routes. Trails like the Rota Vicentina, which runs along the southwest coast, are well-marked and have detailed information on interpretive panels. The famous Portuguese Way of St. James, which crosses the country from south to north, is also well-equipped with hostels and services for pilgrims. Not only that, but the government and local communities have worked a lot in recent years to improve access and safety on some of the most popular routes.
Conclusion
As you can see, Portugal truly is a hiker's hidden gem; it has all the ingredients to be an unforgettable walking holiday. From diverse landscapes and a pleasant climate to a well-prepared infrastructure and a unique culture. Whether you choose the Algarve or the Way of St. James from Lisbon, every step in Portugal becomes a precious memory. So, keep in mind that if you're looking to escape to connect with nature and enjoy local traditions while improving your health, then Portugal is waiting for you with trails ready to be explored.
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