If you are thinking of doing a long-distance walking holiday this summer, you don’t need to look much further than Portugal. We have a great selection of hikes and walking trails here, taking you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the whole of Europe. Here are some of the most popular long-distance routes.
The Fisherman’s Trail
The Fisherman’s Trail is one of the most popular walks in Portugal, and not without a reason. This 89 km route, which takes roughly 7 days to complete, is situated along the beautiful southwestern coast. As you make your way along the Fisherman’s Trail, you will enjoy the views of pristine beaches and breathtaking cliffs, including a 75 km walk through the Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina National Park.
Levada Trails of Madeira
Covering 58 km length, the Levada Trails is an 8-day walking itinerary across the island of Madeira. This route is listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site due to its diverse variety of flora and fauna. Besides the traditional Levadas, you will also visit the Cabo Girão cliff, the San Loureno Peninsula, and numerous traditional fishing villages, including Caniçal, Câmara de Lobos, and Machico.
Caminho Português
If you are a fan of Caminho de Santiago routes, then Caminho Português is a must for you. This long-distance route traditionally goes from either Lisbon or Porto, crossing into Spain, however, you can also pick one of the shorter sections locally. Alternatively, the Caminho Português coastal route is also a popular choice, starting in Baiona and taking roughly 8 days to complete.
Rota Vicentina
Rota Vicentina is not just one route, but a whole network of walking trails, all located in southwestern Portugal. These routes cover 750 kilometres of trails, varying from coastal to inland, and each offering diverse landscapes and experiences. The Historical Way, for instance, is one of the easiest yet most interesting walks, during which you can learn all about the local history and traditions. Those seeking a more challenging experience can choose from many other, higher-difficulty hikes from Rota Vicentina.
Via Algarviana
Last, but by no means least, Via Algarviana spans over 300 km and takes you through the incredibly picturesque Algarve region of Portugal. This inland trail is known for its diverse landscapes, such as cork oak forests and mountain ranges. However, it also passes through traditional villages, where you can experience the authentic rural life and try out delicious local food and wines.
Planning your walking holiday
Long-distance walking trails are a great way to explore the country, but they do require a bit of planning. You will have to make sure that you have different accommodation booked for each day, as you make your way through your chosen route.
One of the leading agencies, Orbis Ways, specialises in self-guided walking holidays in Portugal and other European countries. They will plan the itinerary and sort out everything for you, including the accommodation and transportation, so you can simply show up and enjoy your holiday.
Final word
Here in Portugal, you don’t have to go far before you reach areas of breathtaking nature. These long-distance routes provide a great opportunity to explore it, while staying active and challenging yourself!
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