Walking Holidays in Portugal

Showing 14 out of 338 trips

From Land's End to the Algarve's Wild West, walking holidays in Portugal have it all. This beautiful country is blessed with diverse landscapes and sub-tropical climates where exotic birds and colourful flowers flourish. Immerse yourself in local culture while admiring limestone cliffs overlooking the coastline, busy fishing ports, and historic maritime towns.

Further afield off the north coast of Africa, the volcanic island of Madeira is one of the prettiest in the North Atlantic. Comprising sleepy villages, tropical flowers, and unique wildlife, Madeira boasts a mild, year-round climate that makes walking trips in Portugal perfect.



Alternatively, our walking holidays in Portugal feature a guided walking tour of Porto and the Douro Valley. Wine lovers will be in their element as we walk among the valleys and vineyards of the UNESCO World Heritage Douro Valley and taste some of the finest wines in the country.

Food lovers will be equally as impressed with Portugal's delicious dishes that can be sampled in the many restaurants of each region. Tuck into the local cheeses and tasty chouricos that the country is renowned for. On our Algarve Wild West walking tour, you can cool off at the end of the day as each of the hotels you'll stay at has its own pool.

Guided and self-guided walking holidays in Portugal include accommodation for twin-centre and multi-centre trips.

Where can I go walking in Portugal?

Here are just a few of the handpicked Portugal walking holiday destinations available to you.

MADEIRA

Situated just off the coast of North West Africa, Madeira boasts some of Europe's most unrivalled landscapes and wildlife. Perfect for year-round walking, the floating garden of Madeira is a paradise of tropical flowers, exotic birds, trees, romantic gorges, and emerald seas. Staying in a luxury five-star hotel with car hire provided ensures you see the best the island has to offer.

ROTA VICENTINA

Located in South West Portugal, Rota Vicentina is an idyllic spot for an adventure holiday and offers some of the best walking trails on the continent. The North Fishermen's Trail is renowned for its views and spreads throughout the magnificent region of the Alentejo and Vicentine coast. Follow the breath-taking coastal trails and take in the impressive cliffs and unspoilt beaches.

THE ALGARVE

See the best of the Western Algarve region of Portugal on our winter and spring walking holidays. Explore the Algarve from East to West and find undiscovered areas where the lush flora and diverse fauna complement the dramatic seascape scenery of the Atlantic coastline. The hotels are a brilliant mix of rustic charm and stylish grandeur, complete with swimming pools and serving the best of local Portuguese cuisine.

COAST OF MINHO

If you're looking for a taste of authentic Portuguese cuisine and culture, then our walking holidays along the coast of Minho are the perfect getaway. Off the beaten path, the Minho region's natural landscape is one of enormous beauty and biodiversity. Marked by the intense green of its fields and vineyards, you can walk along the Atlantic coast, through beautiful valleys, and explore the mountains of the Minho region.

SAO MIGUEL

The largest island in the Azores, Sao Miguel has been called 'The Green Island' and is Portugal's very own Garden of Eden. Its lush landscapes, verdant hillsides, candy-coloured hydrangeas, and hot pink azaleas, contrasting with the deep blue of the ocean, make it a walking tour to savour. Experience beauty beyond belief on this unspoilt island and taste unique Portuguese culinary delights.

SANTIAGO

The Portuguese Camino de Santiago along the coast is one of the most unique and has been a main pilgrimage route to Santiago for centuries. Set out on a journey of discovery, not only of the country but of yourself, as you follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims and walkers.

THE AZORES

Explore five of the nine islands of the Azores archipelago, a scenically varied area to explore, with each island having its own characteristics, from steep craters to abundant wildlife and sites of historical interest. These walking holidays in Portugal allow you to explore on foot the UNESCO vineyards, lava plateaux (or 'fajas'), and sunken volcanoes.

 

Portugal : Madeira

Walking the Waterways and villages of Madeira

AU$1845


4.0 (5 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

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Portugal : The Azores

Walking the Green Island of the Azores

AU$1905


5.0 (1 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2
Moderate

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Portugal : The Algarve

Walking Rota Vicentina North Fishermen's Trail

AU$2540

 
 

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Self-guided walking

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

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Portugal : Madeira

Marvels of Madeira Walk

AU$2500


4.7 (119 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

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Portugal : The Algarve

Walk the Algarve's Wild West

AU$2155


4.8 (86 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+
Leisurely plus

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Portugal : Mainland Portugal

Walking the Green Coast of Minho

AU$925


4.0 (1 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2
Moderate

Printed route
directions

Portugal : Mainland Portugal

Walking the Mountains, Valleys & Coast of Minho

AU$1395


5.0 (1 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+
Leisurely plus

Printed route
directions

Portugal : Madeira

Walk the Garden Island of Madeira

AU$1475


4.7 (3 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

7 nights,
single centre

Level: 2
Moderate

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Portugal : Mainland Portugal

Walk the Highlights of Northern Portugal

AU$2605


4.5 (6 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2+
Moderate plus

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Portugal : The Algarve

Walking the Algarve's South West

AU$3300


4.8 (32 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

10 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 1+
Leisurely plus

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Portugal : The Azores

Island Hopping in the Azores

AU$3730


4.3 (3 reviews)

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Self-guided walking

14 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

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Portugal : The Azores

Walking in the Azores

AU$4715

 
 

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Guided group walking

7 nights,
twin centre

Level: 3
Stretching

Printed route
directions

Portugal : Mainland Portugal

Portugal: Walking & Wine - Premium Adventure

AU$4920


4.5 (2 reviews)

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Guided group walking

7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Printed route
directions

Portugal : Mainland Portugal

Portugal Coastal Way to Santiago

AU$2685


5.0 (6 reviews)

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Self-guided pilgrimage

14 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Printed route
directions

    Walking Holidays in Portugal

    Overall customer rating, based on 265 reviews

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Where appropriate, we grade our holidays based on distance, terrain, elevation gain, remoteness, etc and categorise them into 4 relative groups. This is ultimately subjective and may vary slightly day to day; for more advice, please see the specific trip page or call one of our friendly team.

Frequently asked questions

What is the famous walk across Portugal?

The classic Camino Portugués is a famous pilgrim route that connects Lisbon to the historical centre of Santiago de Compostela. Another renowned route is the Portugal Coastal Way, where you can take in tranquil coastal views and peaceful mountains as you journey towards the shrine at Santiago.

What time of year is best for walking in Portugal?

For ideal weather conditions, we recommend taking your walking trip in Portugal in the springtime and early summer. Take leisurely hikes through the Portuguese countryside and visit the cities when the flowers are in full bloom and the climate is warm.

What is the most scenic route in Portugal?

Walking the Algarve's South West offers explorers the unspoilt and breath-taking views of the Sagres Peninsula. Not only can you take in the white-washed villages and golden beaches, you can treat yourself to local wine and cuisine along the way. You'll also find the Algarve's South West Fisherman's Trail – a gorgeous coastal walking route.

What to expect from your walking holiday in Portugal?

If you're looking to immerse yourself in the stunning natural views and local culture of Portugal, then our walking tours are the perfect getaway. You'll be walking for most of the day, so if this suits you, you'll have a holiday to remember.

You can choose between our guided and self-guided walking trips around Portugal and select a walking grade that suits your capabilities and preferences.

What to pack for a walking holiday in Portugal?

The season you're taking your walking trip in Portugal will affect what you need to bring with you. During the summer and spring seasons, the climate can be hot and dry, so SPF and other sun protection like sunglasses and hats are necessary. Even the winters can be warm and expose you to UV rays, so you need to take extra care as you'll be spending most of your time outside. Bringing along snacks and water bottles will keep your body fuelled and refreshed throughout your adventure holiday.

If you're going on one of our self-guided walking tours of Portugal, we recommend packing a first-aid kit in case of emergencies.

What to wear on a walking holiday in Portugal?

Due to the high levels of physical activity on our walking tours of Portugal, it's important that you wear the right clothing. Familiarising yourself with the difficulty grade of your chosen walking trip, and keeping an eye on the weather, will help you decide what to pack. Comfortable walking boots and thick socks are essentials.

Depending on the season, you may need clothing to suit hot or humid weather like shorts and breathable layers. In the case of rain or lower temperatures, we recommend a waterproof jacket with a hood and lightweight trousers.

Where to stay in Portugal for a walking holiday?

We handpick the hotels included in your walking tours of Portugal and only select establishments that ooze charm and character. From relaxing swimming pools and cliffside views to converted 16th-century convents, we like to choose hotels that have something different about them, so our holidaymakers get the most out of their stay.

Why choose a walking holiday in Portugal by Headwater?

We've got nearly 40 years of experience in crafting walking holidays that you'll never forget, and Portugal is a top destination. We've got your best interests at heart and with our secure booking process, you can travel with peace of mind. Let us help you find your next adventure!

  • Easy travel - Just give us a few details and we'll sort out your flights for our walking holidays in Portugal. So, from taking off to coming home, we've got you covered.

  • We're highly rated - We've got a 4.6 rating on Feefo so we have a good track record of providing exciting walking holidays to our customers.

  • Award-winning trips - We've been rewarded by The British Travel Awards for our unique adventure holidays that take you all over the world.

  • Benefitting communities - We aim to make a difference in disaster relief, as well as social and conversation causes with The Exodus Travels Foundation.

  • Striving towards sustainability - We're on our way to becoming Nature Net Positive and doing our bit to reduce the impact that our holidays have on the environment. With our People, Places & Planet plan, we're making our tours sustainable.

  • ABTA- and ATOL-protected - You can book your walking tour in Portugal with confidence with ABTA- and ATOL protection. Find out more about what your key rights are when booking with us.

  • Outstanding locations - With our five-step approval process, we curate our walking trips to include stunning locations and handpicked hotels to ensure you get a holiday to remember.

 

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