Trekking in Portugal: where to hike, when to go and how to prepare
Portugal is small, but a lot of mountain fits into a country this size. In a few hours by car you go from the granite of Gerês to the schist of Lousã, from the waterfalls of Alvão to the Douro cliffs and the highest point on the mainland, in Serra da Estrela. This guide brings together what we have learned hiking these mountains: where to go, what time of year, how fit you need to be and how our expeditions work.
Key takeaways
- The best times are spring (April to June) and early autumn (September and October)
- A 2 day expedition covers 22 to 30 km in total: reasonable fitness is enough
- With a guide you spend no time on maps, transport or lodging: you just walk
- Worn-in boots, layers and a windproof jacket cover almost everything
Why go trekking in Portugal
What makes Portugal special for hiking is the variety in a short distance. In one range you walk among oaks and waterfalls, in the next across open plateaus where all you hear is the wind. And at the end of the day there is always a village, a table and a bed.
The trails are quiet, the weather is mild in spring and autumn and the food is part of the trip. Many of these mountains are still off the usual routes, even for Portuguese people.
The mountains we hike in 2027
Caramulo Expedition, 8 and 9 May. Dense forests, old paths and small waterfalls, with spring at its best. 25 km over two days, with 1,000 m of ascent.
Gerês National Park Trek, 12 and 13 June. The country's only national park: green pools between granite boulders, ancient trails and stone villages. 30 km and 1,200 m of ascent.
Alvão Natural Park Trek, 19 and 20 June. Between Vila Real and Mondim de Basto, with big waterfalls and plenty of water at this time of year. 22 km and 900 m of ascent.
Serra da Estrela Summit Ascent, 18 and 19 September. Woods and waterfalls on day one, and the climb to the highest point on mainland Portugal (1,993 m) at sunrise on day two. 28 km and 1,500 m of ascent.
Douro Wild Expedition, 24 to 26 September. Three days in the Upper Douro during the grape harvest, with the Douro line train, a wine tasting and a sunset boat ride included. 38 km in total.
In preparation, with pre-booking open: schist Lousã, the Costa Vicentina, Montemuro, a crossing from Guarda to the Spanish border and Montesinho in autumn. See every date on Trekking Expeditions.
When to go
Spring, from April to June, is the best time for the north and centre: everything is green, the streams and waterfalls are full and the days are long. Early autumn, in September and October, brings clear air, mild temperatures and the colours of the chestnut groves and vineyards.
In summer, the inland heat makes long walks hard in the middle of the day, and it is also the period of highest wildfire risk. In winter, the upper Serra da Estrela can have snow and ice: beautiful, but it calls for different gear and more experience.
How fit do you need to be
On our 2 day expeditions you walk between 11 and 15 km a day, with stops to rest, eat and take in the view. Anyone who walks fairly regularly and is in reasonable shape can do these routes without trouble.
Each expedition lists the distance and total ascent, so you know what to expect. The pace is the group's and the guide adapts it to who is there. If in doubt, talk to us before booking.
With a guide or on your own
Many trails are waymarked, but the marking is not always continuous and mist rolls in quickly in Estrela and Alvão. On your own you need to sort out maps, transport to the start and back from the end, lodging and meals.
On a guided expedition all of that is taken care of. There is transport from Guarda, Viseu or Porto, lodging and dinner, and a guide who knows the way and the alternatives when the weather changes. Groups are small, 8 to 10 people.
What to pack
Worn-in boots or trail shoes (never new), a 20 to 30 litre backpack, layers and a waterproof windproof jacket. Add 1.5 to 2 litres of water, a hat, sunscreen, a head torch and something to eat between meals.
There is no need for a tent or sleeping bag: we sleep in lodgings. After booking we send you the full list for the expedition you chose.
How to book
Choose the expedition and date on Trekking Expeditions, tell us where you are leaving from and how many you are, and send the request. We confirm your place in under 1 hour. Places are few and the spring dates usually sell out first.
