The number of people who enjoy hiking is growing, whether in search of a healthy life, be among Nature or simply discovering places lost in time. Know that even in urban areas this practice is also a trend, so All About Portugal has made a list of walking routes in Lisbon and Porto, so that you can discover the wilder side of these two cities. Put on your sneakers, log off and discover a trail that suits you.
Biodiversity Route, Lisbon
Paraná pines, ancient olive trees, foxes or hedgehogs in Lisbon? That and much more in the 14 kilometers of pedestrian trails – which can also be done by bicycle – that will show you the best of Portuguese fauna and flora. The starting and finishing point is Vasco da Gama Garden, in Belém, on a route that goes through 18 incredible points that link the riverside area to the Monsanto Forest Park. Discover the city's natural wealth, while exploring its rich cultural and historical heritage, such as the Alto de Santo António Chapel, the Ajuda National Palace or the São Jerónimo Chapel.
Cascais to Cais do Sodré
If you like walking, and you already have a lot of experience doing it, this route offers you 25 kilometers along the coastline, almost always accompanied by water, whether it be the Tagus River or the Atlantic Ocean. Start in Cais do Sodré and end in Cascais, with the possibility of being able to interrupt the walk at any time to take public transport. Along the way you will come across some of the capital's most iconic monuments, such as the Belém Tower, the Padrão dos Descobrimentos or the Jerónimos Monastery. Take the opportunity to recharge your batteries and make a strategic stop to eat a Pastel de Belém, even if you are a fan of a healthy life!
Cabo da Roca, Sintra
There are many pedestrian routes in Lisbon and Porto, but this one is very special because it starts and ends at the westernmost point of Europe – Cabo da Roca –, in a circular route of around 15 kilometers. With a diverse landscape and terrain, you will pass through vineyards, pine forests, beaches, sugarcane fields, cliffs, with fantastic views that include the famous dinosaur footprints of Praia Grande. Don't miss Buraco do Fojo, a natural crater in the cliff that opens directly to the sea!
Atlantic Way: Cascais Sintra
It is a 30 kilometer route that starts in Azoia (Sintra) and ends in Carvalhal (Mafra), with the seaside as a company. Despite being long, it can be done in shorter stages, as this route coincides with three small routes (PR7, PR8 and PR9). You'll pass by countless beaches, villages, a waterfall and between Praia Pequena and Praia das Maçãs you'll find an archaeological excavation in the cliffs, the perfect excuse for a break.
Ribeira do Porto to Matosinhos beach
If you are looking for a pedestrian route in Lisbon and Porto, we leave you these 15 unmissable kilometers of walk that starts in Ribeira, in the Historic Center of Porto, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Follow the Douro River to the sea, passing by countless points of interest in Invicta – such as the Customs House, the Transport and Communications Museum or the "Queijo" Castle. Finish off with a swim on one of the Matosinhos beaches or with a delicious grilled fresh fish.
Walkways of Rio Tinto and Porto Oriental Park
Located in the eastern part of Porto, this is an 11 kilometer linear route that starts (or ends) in Rio Tinto. It pgoes through the beautiful Parque Oriental do Porto, which covers an area of around 18 hectares – which, like the Parque da Cidade do Porto, was designed by the landscape architect Sidónio Pardal – ending, always accompanied by the river, at Marina do Freixo. On foot or by bicycle, Nature will always be your company.
Areinho de Avintes Route – D. Luis I Bridge (Gaia)
It is one of the most panoramic routes in the city of Porto and a mandatory trail for fans of a healthy lifestyle. With about 5 kilometers along the Douro River, it is perfect for doing some exercise, for walking, running or cycling, alone or with friends. Start at the iconic D. Luís Bridge, pass by Freixo Bridge and head to Areinho de Avintes beach, the end of the route. Along the way, enjoy a refreshing swim and if you're a fan, venture out on other pedestrian routes in Lisbon and Porto.
Long Distance Path of Serras do Porto
It is mandatory for fans of hiking and a challenge for those looking for pedestrian routes in Lisbon and Porto. There are 59 kilometers that go through six mountains, in a territory integrated in the National Network of Protected Areas. Three stages unite three entry points, in each of the municipalities covered: Gondomar (Ribeirinho de Covelo Park), Paredes (Senhora do Salto Park) and Valongo (City Park). With an incredible heritage, rurality is very present in the mills, beekeeping and pastoralism, which coexists with several species of fauna and flora native to the region.
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