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Walking holidays in Portugal

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.

 

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Walking the Waterways and villages of Madeira
Portugal: Madeira

Walking the Waterways and villages of Madeira

Perfect for year-round walking, the floating garden of Madeira is a paradise of tropical flowers, exotic birds and trees, romantic gorges and emerald seas. Staying in a luxury 5 star hotel and car hire provided ensures you see the best the island has to offer.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07MS
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1820per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All buffet breakfasts and dinner on first night
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking the Green Island of the Azores
Portugal: The Azores

Walking the Green Island of the Azores

São Miguel, the largest island in the archipelago has been called ‘The Green Island’ with its lush landscapes, rolling, verdant hillsides, candy-coloured hydrangeas and hot pink azaleas contrasting with the deep blue of the ocean.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07AS
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2000per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts and evening meals
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking Rota Vicentina North Fishermen's Trail
Portugal: The Algarve

Walking Rota Vicentina North Fishermen's Trail

Rota Vicentina is spreading throughout the magnificent region of the Alentejo and Vicentine coast and the coastal trails are truly breathtaking.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW06RT
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration6 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2225per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Marvels of Madeira Walk
Portugal: Madeira

Marvels of Madeira Walk

Perfect for year-round walking, the floating garden of Madeira is a paradise of tropical flowers, exotic birds and trees, romantic gorges and emerald seas. Luxury 4 and 5 star hotels throughout provide exquisite local cuisine with possibility of sampling the island's famous full-bodied wine.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07MF
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2795per person, tour only

  • 116 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfasts, 2 picnics and 5 evening meals
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walk the Algarve's Wild West
Portugal: The Algarve

Walk the Algarve's Wild West

A warming winter walking discovery allowing you to see the best of the unspoilt Western Algarve region. The lush flora and diverse fauna of the Algarvian hinterland compliment the dramatic seascape scenery of the Atlantic coastline perfectly. The hotels are a brilliant mix of rustic charm and stylish grandeur, complete with swimming pools and serving the best of local Portuguese cuisine.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW06AV
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration6 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2135per person, tour only

  • 84 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfasts and 3 evening meals
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walk the Garden Island of Madeira
Portugal: Madeira

Walk the Garden Island of Madeira

Based for 7 nights in Funchal in a choice of 3* or 4* accommodation, head out each day using public transport to explore this fascinating island, walking along levadas discovering the array of flora and fauna.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07ME
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1100per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Route notes provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking the Green Coast of Minho
Portugal: Mainland Portugal

Walking the Green Coast of Minho

From your base in Viana do Castelo, one of the most beautiful cities in Northern Portugal, head out each day to walk along rivers, along the coast and in the nearby Serra de Arga mountain range.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07MH
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1100per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Route notes provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking the Mountains, Valleys & Coast of Minho
Portugal: Mainland Portugal

Walking the Mountains, Valleys & Coast of Minho

Marked by the intense green of its fields and vineyards, the Minho regions' natural landscape is one of enormous beauty and biodiversity. Head from the mountains to the coast on this 7 night holiday.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07MV
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1520per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Contrasts of Rota Vicentina Walk
Portugal: The Algarve

Contrasts of Rota Vicentina Walk

Walking along the Rota Vicentina from two extraordinary Portuguese regions, Alentejo's serene ambiance with the only coastal stretch of Algarve that remains truly genuine and wild.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07RV
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, twin centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1595per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts and evening meals
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
The Algarve from West to East
Portugal: The Algarve

The Algarve from West to East

On this 7-night twin-centre walking trip you'll discover the entirety of Portugal's Algarve, from the rugged cliff-strewn western Atlantic coastline to its eastern border with Spain. Driving to each day's different walks you'll embark on a journey through the undiscovered parts of the region where pretty whitewashed villages and lively towns intermingle with a mix of stunning scenery.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07AV
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, twin centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1790per person, tour only

  • 7 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts and 1 evening meal
  • Route notes provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walk the Highlights of Northern Portugal
Portugal: Mainland Portugal

Walk the Highlights of Northern Portugal

Sample the world-class wine and local produce, discover an ancient castle, delightful forests, historical towns, and beautiful beaches overlooking the Atlantic Ocean as you meander across Northern Portugal.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW08PO
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration8 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2300per person, tour only

  • 4 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts and four packed lunches
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking the Algarve's South West
Portugal: The Algarve

Walking the Algarve's South West

Discover the South-West corner of the Algarve on our self-guided walk following coastal footpaths and inland trails.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW10AV
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration10 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2600per person, tour only

  • 29 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfasts and 5 evening meals
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking the Algarve's South West Fishermen's Trail
Portugal: The Algarve

Walking the Algarve's South West Fishermen's Trail

On the south Fishermen’s great coastal trail, walk by the sea, follows the paths used by the locals to access the beaches and fishing grounds. This trail is longing the cliffs, with breath-taking views and some truly memorable moments.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW06AR
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration6 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2675per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfast included
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Island Hopping in the Azores
Portugal: The Azores

Island Hopping in the Azores

Explore 5 of the 9 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. Internal flights or ferries included.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW14EC
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration14 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$3050per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts and 8 evening meals
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking in the Azores
Portugal: The Azores

Walking in the Azores

Guided trekking on Europe's undiscovered volcanic archipelago. Be it pocked with steep craters, a haven for wildlife or a place of historic interest, each of the nine islands is quite unique and ideally explored on foot. We visit the very best that four of these islands have to offer, walking through UNESCO vineyards, lava plateaux (or 'fajas') and sunken volcanoes.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07AZ
  • Holiday typeGuided walking
  • Duration7 nights, twin centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$3000per person, tour only
  • All breakfasts and six lunches All accommodation Tour leader throughout All transport and listed activities Group arrival and departure transfers available
Portugal: Walking & Wine - Premium Adventure
Portugal: Mainland Portugal

Portugal: Walking & Wine - Premium Adventure

This 7-night guided walking holiday combines plentiful wine-tastings with relaxed walks through valleys and terraced vineyards, and alongside gushing rivers.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07OP
  • Holiday typeGuided walking
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$3420per person, tour only
  • All breakfasts, two lunches, three dinners and three wine tastings All premium accommodation Tipping for all hotel staff, local staff and drivers Named tour leader, chosen for their expertise All transport and listed activities Group arrival and departure transfers available
Portugal Coastal Way to Santiago
Portugal: Mainland Portugal

Portugal Coastal Way to Santiago

The Portuguese Camino de Santiago along the coast is one of the most unique and has been one of the main pilgrim routes 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.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW14CP
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration14 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2600per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)

    Walking Holidays in Portugal

    Overall customer rating, based on 257 reviews

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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