Introduction
Portugal is a country that is known for its stunning beaches and historic cities, but it also has some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Europe. With its rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear lakes, Portugal is a hiker’s paradise. In this blog post, I’ll share some of the best national parks in Portugal for hiking and exploring.
Peneda-Gerês National Park
Peneda-Gerês National Park is located in the northern part of Portugal, and it is the only national park in the country. The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its deep valleys, granite peaks, and crystal-clear lakes.
The park has a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, from easy walks along the river to challenging mountain hikes. One of the most popular hikes is the trail to the summit of Pico da Nevosa, which is the highest peak in the park. The hike is challenging, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including wolves, deer, and wild horses. Keep your eyes peeled for these beautiful creatures as you explore the park.
Arrábida Natural Park
Arrábida Natural Park is located on the coast of central Portugal, and it is known for its stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. The park is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including cork trees, wildflowers, and dolphins.
The park has a variety of hiking trails, including a coastal trail that offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The park also has several beaches that are perfect for a refreshing swim after a long hike.
One of the most popular hikes in the park is the trail to the top of Serra do Risco, which is the highest peak in the park. The hike is challenging, but the views from the top are breathtaking.
Serra da Estrela Natural Park
Serra da Estrela Natural Park is located in the central part of Portugal, and it is known for its rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque villages. The park is also home to the highest peak in Portugal, Torre, which stands at over 6,500 feet.
The park has a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, from easy walks along the lakes to challenging mountain hikes. One of the most popular hikes is the trail to the top of Torre, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including wild boar, eagles, and wolves. Keep your eyes peeled for these beautiful creatures as you explore the park.
Conclusion
Portugal’s national parks are some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Europe, and they offer a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. From the rugged mountains of Serra da Estrela to the crystal-clear lakes of Peneda-Gerês, there is something for everyone in Portugal’s national parks.
So if you’re a nature lover and a hiker, start planning your trip to Portugal today. You won’t be disappointed by the stunning scenery, the friendly people, and the delicious cuisine. Portugal is a country that is full of surprises, and it’s definitely worth a visit.
