With summer officially coming to an end, we can say goodbye to the beaches and longer days. With milder temperatures, tourists naturally migrate to the interior, where they begin to enjoy a very different landscape from that on the coast. But no need to be discouraged, after all, the season that has just arrived brings a very characteristic beauty and can be extremely pleasant to discover new places. Do you want to know how to enjoy Portugal in the fall?
In this text, we will present five options for ecological tourism, where contact with nature becomes the main component of the tour. And this can be invigorating! From trails and walkways to natural parks all over the country. Get to know Portugal in the fall and you won’t regret it!
Paiva Footpaths
For those who have a lot of disposition and physical preparation, the Passadiços do Paiva are ideal. Located in the municipality of Arouca, district of Aveiro, the route takes almost 2 and a half hours of walking to cover about 8 km. The walk provides an encounter with beautiful landscapes in an authentic natural sanctuary. The route extends between the fluvial beaches of Areinho and Espiunca, with Vau beach between the two. A journey through biology, geology, and archeology that will certainly stay in the heart, soul, and mind of any nature lover. Want to know more? Check the link.
Douro Vineyards
The grapes are gone, but we can guarantee the golden and reddish vineyards, which are reflected in the calm waters of the Douro River. The tour can be by boat, train, or car, depending on the time available to enjoy this immense beauty of the North. But we assure you: you won’t want to leave! If you go by car, be sure to pass through Pinhão to appreciate the hills filled with vineyards and olive trees.
Castro Laboreiro to Soajo route
Do you want to know a quiet area in the middle of nature? The Castro Laboreiro area, located in Melgaço county, is probably the wildest in the Peneda-Gerês Natural Park. Among the vegetation, with moss-covered rocks, through cedars, oaks, and holly, it is possible to reach Soajo, located in the municipality of Arcos de Valdevez. On the way, it is possible to pass by the Sanctuary of Peneda, and cross paths with cows cachenas guarded by Castro Laboreiro dogs. A unique experience!
We have already given some information about the North of Portugal and even about Gêres. Learn more on the link.
Montesinho Natural Park
The Natural Park of Montesinho is a protected area located in northeastern Transmontano. It is located in the Terra Fria transmontana where temperatures vary between 12º C and 40º C. Therefore, it is an excellent tour option to enjoy Portugal in the fall since temperatures are not extreme. Ideal for those who like to explore a wilder and virgin nature, with rich vegetation and several waterfalls and fluvial beaches. During the walk, it is possible to come across the Iberian Wolf and the Red Deer, which find refuge there.
7 Hanging Valleys Trail
For those who visit Portugal in the fall and have chosen the south of the country, the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail is the ideal option. Located in the municipality of Lagoa, it is considered one of the most beautiful trails in the Algarve and was even voted the best hiking destination in Europe. If you’re up for a 6 km hike – in this case, 12 km round trip – be sure to walk it. The views are incredible! You don’t need to be an expert on this trail. It’s important to be physically fit and have a desire to immerse yourself in nature.
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Are you curious to learn more about Portugal in the fall? Don’t miss our properties all over the country. See more information on the link.
Translated by Miguel Marinho Soares
