With everything from a superb fado concert in Lisbon to sunning on the beaches of the Algarve and drinking wine in Porto, Portugal offers something for everyone! From natural parks to historic cities, fishing villages, and paradisiacal islands, the country has something for everyone.
Here are 7 little known places we have found for you to explore.
PONTA DA PIEDADE, LAGOS
Lagos is one of Portugal’s most attractive seaside cities, with a rich history and a wide range of historical landmarks in its old town. La Ponta da Piedade, an area of cliffs and rock formations with marine arches and secret caverns, is arguably the region’s most popular attraction. By joining one of the guided excursions, you may climb the cliffs from the top, down the stairs to the beach, and manoeuvre through the boat forms. The greatest time to visit this location is unquestionably around sunset when the rocks become yellow.
VILA NOVA DE MILFONTES, ALENTEJO
The Natural Park of the Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina is ideal for coastal road excursions! Just make a pit stop in Vila Nova de Milfontes around halfway through. Because this is one of the least frequented locations by foreign tourists, some portions of the beach still have a wild appeal to them. Apart from swimming on its beautiful beaches, you may also enjoy coastal hiking trails and cycling on its deserted roads. And, in the summer, there’s the thriving nightlife!
PASSADIÇOS DO PAIVA, AVEIRO
The Passadiços do Paiva is a nearly 9-kilometre walk along the Paiva river that allows you to breathe fresh air, commune with nature, and observe endangered animals. It is accessible through Areinho or Espiunca. However, if you begin the journey at Areinho, it will be physically easier and you will have greater views of the river from the right bank, as well as the possibility of spotting some kayaks descending. If the round journey is too much for you, taxis are available to transport you between the ends. Bring your swimsuit, since the passadiço provides access to three river beaches! Additionally, there are pubs that provide quick food.
BERLENGAS ISLANDS, LEIRIA
The coastlines of Berlenga Grande, Islas Estelas, and Farilhoes-Forcadas, which are made up of three islands with crystal blue seas, are a haven for water sports and diving enthusiasts. In Berlenga Grande, a tiny footbridge connects the São João Baptista fort to the island. The fort was erected in the 17th century to protect the island from pirates and other countries’ forces. It has been largely renovated and is now suitable for sleeping! Additionally, camping is permitted on the island. Other attractions include the Duke of Bragança’s solar-powered lighthouse and the 16th-century remains of the Monastery of Mercy.
SETE CIDADES, AZORES ISLANDS
The Azores are a group of nine unique islands in the Atlantic Ocean that are ideal for an eco-friendly vacation. Only 5% of the land is developed, with the remainder being natural. One of the most well-known locations in the magnificent volcanic crater known as the Sete Cidades on São Miguel Island. You can go hiking and explore the area’s stunning lakes. The most well-known is Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, but for a more quiet location, head to Lagoa do Canario. From there, a trail leads to Miradouro Boca do Inferno.
GORREANA TEA PLANTATION, AZORES ISLANDS
You do not need to travel to Asia to stroll among tea farms. On the island of São Miguel sits one of Portugal’s hidden jewels and Europe’s oldest tea plantation! The route begins in front of the facility and is around 3.4 kilometres in length, taking roughly an hour and a half to finish. Passing across a stone bridge transforms the view from field to woodland! At the conclusion of your tour, you will have the opportunity to learn more about the tea-making process and, of course, sample and purchase some tea!
MIRADOURO DA PEDRA BELA
The Miradouro da Pedra Bela is one of the most recognised views in the whole Peneda-Gerês National Park. It overlooks the northwest and southwest. It is better to visit on a clear day to see the mountains, the Caniçada lagoon, and the Cávado-Clado river confluence. However, even if the weather is not ideal — this being a wet region – the trek is still worthwhile. Perhaps if you wait a little while longer, the clouds that cover the valley will lift!
