Walking holidays in Portugal

On a non-group, self-guided walking holiday in Portugal, you walk from one superbly located hotel of character to the next while your luggage is transported, or explore from a single base. We provide a map and our lovingly compiled route notes so that you can walk at your own pace.

Walking holidays in Portugal, Madeira

& the Azores

Intricately painted tiles, storks nesting on sea stacks, colourful flowers and, of course, famous wines, mean that our walking holidays in Portugal are about more than walking. We actively encourage you to delight in the details – an elegant manor house, the sunlight dancing on the sea – which is what Slow holidays are all about. And since you’re not with a group, and have no luggage (we transfer it between hotels), you can do just that, following our comprehensive route notes at your own pace.

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The best walking in Portugal, Madeira & the Azores

Whatever your preference as regards scenery, you can rely on Inntravel to have found some of the best walking in Portugal, Madeira and the Azores. On the mainland you can walk in the Douro Valley, the grandeur of which is striking; enjoy mountain hikes in the country’s only national park; stay in wonderful manor houses as you discover the lush Minho; marvel at the castles and exuberant gardens on the way to Sintra; follow beautiful paths along the wild Costa Vicentina; discover the Setúbal Peninsula’s idyllic coastline; or explore the quiet side of the Algarve. Further afield, walking in Madeira is special due to the wealth of flowers, or you might like to consider the Azores. Walking here reveals dramatic volcanoes and crater lakes.

For further ideas, see our full range of walking, cycling and touring holidays in Portugal.

Travelling from outside the UK?

To give you a good idea of how we can tailor our trips to your individual requirements, take a look at the section of the website specifically devoted to travellers from outside the UK.

Alternatively, if you’d prefer to get the low-down on Inntravel holidays from someone who has first-hand experience, you can email Phil Wise. Based in California, Phil has taken many trips with us over the years, and will be happy to give you general information about travelling to Europe and the overall Inntravel holiday experience from an American perspective.

Are our walking holidays in Portugal right for you?

When it comes to walking, Portugal caters particularly well for those looking for easy-to-moderate or moderate walking. To be sure of choosing the walking holiday in Portugal that is right for you, read how we grade them below. For great flexibility and the chance to mix walking and sightseeing as the mood takes you, choose a centre-based holiday (take your pick of the Algarve, western Madeira or the Azores).

Grade 1

Generally easy walking with few ascents / descents, but perhaps the occasional long day.
Grade 1-2

Easy-to-moderate walking with some ascents / descents, and occasional longer days.
Grade 2

Moderate walking on varied terrain, with some long days and regular ascents / descents.
Grade 2-3

Moderate-to-challenging walking on more rugged terrain with significant ascents / descents on most days. Compass skills may be required (check the individual holiday).
Grade 3

Challenging hikes, featuring long days with significant ascent / descent on challenging terrain. Compass skills may be required.
Flexible

Choice of easier or harder routes, so that you can tailor most days to your requirements.

What to expect from your walking holiday in Portugal

There are three key ingredients which are common to all Inntravel holidays, including our walking holidays in Portugal: sublime landscapes; delightful hotels hand-picked for their warm welcome; and delicious local cuisine.

Detailed route information

We take extra care to provide you with clear, coherent route notes that we update regularly. Including useful tips about places to visit, Inntravel route guides give you more time to focus on the simple pleasures of walking, discovering the natural landscape at your own pace and soaking up the local ambience.
The freedom of independence

If you value independent travel and hotels of character, you’re in the right company. With Inntravel, you set your own holiday start date, duration (you can add extra nights at any hotel) and preferred travel route (by train, plane or ferry). Talk to us and we’ll make your personalised holiday plans and travel arrangements happen.
The walking specialists

We’ve been seeking out the finest routes in Europe and beyond since 1984. If you’ve travelled with us before, you’ll already appreciate our knowledge and expertise. If you are new to Inntravel and have a question about walking holidays, please get in touch. Our friendly experts are waiting to share their enthusiasm and knowledge.

Walking holidays in Portugal