Top Things To Do In Portugal For Nature Lovers

Portugal is a nature lover's paradise—there are few places in Europe where you can find such a breathtaking combination of natural beauty and peaceful solitude.

The country's lush forests, rolling hills, and sandy beaches are filled with unique wildlife and breathtaking views of the sea. All of this is just waiting to be discovered by anyone looking for a spectacular nature break.

Just grab your ETIAS Portugal, pack your bags, and head out to explore everything this amazing country has to offer.

Hike in Madeira

Hike the trails of Madeira's mountains and you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the island's lush vegetation and rugged cliffs.

The routes in Madeira are perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers alike. The trails have been carefully maintained by local communities, so they're well-marked and free from any dangers.

If you want to hike with a guide, there are plenty of options for that as well. There’s even a tour that winds its way through vineyards and wine cellars.

Tackle the Camino Portugués

The Camino Portugués is a pilgrimage trail that runs from Porto or Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

The origins of the Camino Portugués are not entirely clear, but some historians believe it may have first been used by pilgrims traveling to Santiago in medieval times.

The Camino isn’t for the faint-hearted—if you want to conquer the whole route, it’ll take you a few months to complete. Alternatively, you can walk just part of the route and still experience the magic of the ancient trail.

Visit Penada-Gerês National Park

Visiting Penada-Gerês National Park is one of the most beautiful, invigorating experiences you can have in Portugal. If you're looking for a place to get away from it all, this park is exactly what you need.

Penada-Gerês National Park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country: you’ll see mountains, rivers, forests, lakes, and more. The park is also home to many species of animals and plants.

One of the best ways to explore the park is by hiking through it. You can choose from many trails—some are easy and some require more effort.

Go Birdwatching at Lake Alqueva

If you're interested in birdwatching, you can head to the nearby Lake Alqueva—Europe’s largest man-made lake. The spot is surrounded by a beautiful nature reserve, which makes it an ideal place for bird lovers.

Visitors can find groups of Cranes and Cormorants around the lake. There are also many wading birds, including Black-winged Stilts and Common or Green Sandpipers.

If you want to experience this fantastic ecosystem for yourself without crowds or noise pollution, then consider going on an organized tour with a local guide.

Explore Douro Valley

Douro Valley is an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. The Douro River winds through steep hillsides and vineyards, making it a must-see for anyone looking for spectacular natural views.

The valley is also home to an incredible wine culture and some of the best-kept secrets in the world of wine tourism. If you're a fan of wine or just want to learn more about it, this is a great place to visit.

Douro Valley is just east of Porto, and easily accessible for a day trip. If you want to spend a few days in the region, take a trip to the Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa—a protected area near the river with an extensive collection of prehistoric rock art.

Gaze Up Through Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave is a hidden gem that you can’t miss out on seeing. It’s a stunning seaside cave with a huge hole in the ceiling that lets the sunlight flood inside.

The cave is only accessible by boat or kayak, so you really get the feeling of being away from it all when you visit. You can go on a boat tour or hire a kayak from a number of companies along the coast.

The place is thought to have been used for centuries as a hideout for pirates and smugglers, giving it an air of mystery that still lingers today.

Go on a Cycle Tour

A cycle tour is a great way to see the country, and you'll get some exercise while you're at it. Cycling is one of the most popular ways to explore this country's beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, and stunning coastlines.

With a cycle tour you'll be able to see everything from the highest peaks in all of Europe to ancient castles and medieval towns.

You can choose from many routes, including coastal routes and mountain passes. There are also mountains in the north where you can do downhill riding