7 Best Hikes in Portugal (Mainland Trails)

Hiking in Portugal is a guaranteed adventure. With stunning coastal cliffs, rolling green hills, and beautiful mountain ranges, there’s a trail for everyone. From challenging treks to pleasant scenic walks with breath-taking views, many of you will no doubt feel overwhelmed by the choices. To make your search a little easier, we’ve put together a list of the best hikes in Portugal. 

And better yet, why not make the most of your hiking holiday with one of our fully-equipped campers, giving you complete freedom exploring this unique landscape at your own pace. It doesn’t matter where you start – north or south, at Siesta Campers we make campervan hire in Portugal easy and straightforward.. In no time at all you’ll be waking up to stunning sunrises or relaxing after a long hike all with the comforts of your new home on wheels.

1. Peneda-Gerês National Park – Trilho da Cidade da Calcedónia

Peneda-Gerês National Park is the country’s only national park  and home to some of the best hikes in Portugal. This trail in particular takes you through ancient rock formations, oak forests and spectacular mountain views. You’ll even discover prehistoric engravings along the way for any history lovers among you. There are plenty of campervan-friendly spots nearby for overnight stays, and many other hiking trails  the Peneda-Gerês has to offer.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 6.4 km (loop)
• Elevation Gain: 429m
• Route Type: Loop
• Starting Point: Capela do Calvário
• Best Time to Hike: Spring to autumn

Tip: Wild Camping in Portugal is restricted, but there are designated spots where it is allowed. Always follow local regulations and be respectful of nature.

Trilho da Cidade da Calcedónia

2. Passadiços do Paiva (Paiva Walkways)

This stunning boardwalk along the Paiva River features wooden walkways, waterfalls, and vibrant green surroundings. You’ll even pass over one of the largest suspension foot bridges in the world. This is a fantastic scenic walk for those who love river landscapes and well-maintained trails. Shuttle services also make it easy to return to your campervan at the starting point. The Paiva walkways are a popular tourist attraction in Portugal, so expect people during peak periods.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 8.7 km (one way)
• Elevation Gain: 311m
• Route Type: Point to Point
• Starting Point: Espiunca or Areinho
• Best Time to Hike: Spring and autumn (summer can be hot)

Tip: Don’t forget to book tickets in advance as there is a daily limit of people allowed to explore this beautiful spot.

Passadiços do Paiva

3. Serra da Estrela – Covão dos Conchos

This unique hike leads to an otherworldly lagoon with a mysterious sinkhole that is just waiting to be photographed. Located in Portugal’s highest mountain range, the hiking trail is relatively easy and rewards hikers with spectacular views. Serra da Estrela is also a great region for campervans, with plenty of scenic overnight spots available for you to park up and cook up some nice food on your camper’s handy hobs.

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Distance: 8.9 km (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 241m
• Route Type: Out and back
• Starting Point: Lagoa Comprida
• Best Time to Hike: Spring to autumn

Tip: High altitude trails provide some of the best hikes in Portugal during the summer months when lower elevations get too hot.

Covão dos Conchos, one of the best high altitude hikes in Portugal

4. Schist Villages Trail - Piódão and Foz d’Égua

Why not head to Portugal’s unique historic schist villages, where traditional stone houses blend into the mountains. This picturesque hike connects the fairy-tale village of Piódão with the idyllic river beach of Foz d’Égua, offering a perfect mix of culture and nature.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 6 km (loop)
• Elevation Gain: 327m
• Route Type: Loop
• Starting Point: Piódão Village
• Best Time to Hike: Year-round

Tip: When returning to the village of Piódão, don’t forget to stock up on all the tasty local products this place has to offer.

Foz d’Égua

5. Buçaco National Forest

 Once a quiet retreat and refuge for the Carmelites of 15th Century Portugal, history is all around you on this fascinating hike. Beautiful forests and architecture combine transporting you to another time – the 144 steps of Fonte Fria are a must-visit, while gardens and lakes lead you on a fulfilling trek to the Cruz Alta at the top, rewarding you with a stunning view over the land.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 4.8km (loop)
• Elevation Gain: 321m
• Route Type: Loop
•  Starting Point: Convent of Santa Cruz do Buçaco
• Best Time to Hike: Year Round

Tip: Entering the Forest during opening hours (9-19:00) is free, but parking a vehicle all day will cost around €7.

Buçaco National Forest

6. Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in Algarve

The most popular hike in Algarve and easily one of the best hikes in Portugal takes you along the dramatic limestone cliffs, passing hidden beaches, sea caves, and several stunning viewpoints. Its popularity may bring plenty of people but it doesn’t take away from the beauty of this trek. If you need a cool down, why not go for a dip in the small hidden coves you’ll find on your journey. This is a hike you won’t want to miss.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 12.9 km (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 331m
• Route Type: Out and back
• Starting Point: Praia da Marinha
• Best Time to Hike: Autumn to spring (avoid peak summer heat)

Tip: There are plenty of campervan-friendly parking areas near the trailheads!

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, the most popular hike in Algarve

7. Rocha da Pena – A Hidden Gem in the Algarve

This lesser-known Algarve hike offers panoramic views over the countryside, diverse flora, and even some ancient caves to explore due to the erosion of its limestone cliffs. With over 120 species of birds any birdwatcher among you shouldn’t miss this quiet hike full of natural beauty. It’s a moderately challenging trail with plenty of rewarding scenery.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 11.1 km (loop)
• Elevation Gain: 422m
• Route Type: Loop
• Starting Point: Rocha da Pena Parking Area
• Best Time to Hike: Year-round

 Rocha da Pena

Best Time to Hike in Portugal

• Spring (March-May): Ideal for wildflowers and comfortable temperatures.
• Autumn (September-November): Less crowded and cooler.
• Summer (June-August): Still good for high-altitude hikes but too hot for hiking Portugal’s interior.
• Winter (December-February): Best for mild southern hikes; some northern trails may have snow.

Essential Gear

• Sturdy hiking shoes
• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Plenty of water (especially for coastal and summer hikes)
• Map or GPS device
• One of these Camping Apps
• Snacks and a reusable water bottle

Make the Most of Hiking in Portugal with Siesta Campers

With a wide range of stunning landscapes and diverse trails, hiking in Portugal is an unforgettable experience. Best of all, Siesta Campers, has convenient locations throughout the country and offers easy access to a variety of outdoor adventures. So pack your gear, hit the road, and check out these amazing hikes this beautiful country has to offer! And with that handy campervan, you might even discover some hikes of your own!