Embracing nature in all its glory is one of the reasons to visit Portugal. Today we share with you our top 10 ecotourism spots in the form of natural parks. Their landscapes transform from lush spring blooms to golden autumn colors, yet their essence remains timeless.
Unfortunately, some of these natural parks in Portugal were affected by wildfires during the summer. Tourism can help support local communities recovering from these events, but always respect restricted areas and safety guidelines. They are definitely beautiful locations for hiking in Portugal. These are all protected areas, so don’t forget to respect Portugal’s nature.
Note: Please remember to check our alerts, including flooding and severe weather notices, and avoid visiting affected areas. You may and should check the official Portugal’s IPMA weather forecast & alerts that updates more frequently.
When the time is right, reconnect with the earth and have a fun trip visiting these natural parks in Portugal!
Table of Contents
List of Natural Parks in Portugal
1. Peneda Gerês National Park
For our first suggestion of Natural Parks in Portugal, we bring you one of the most beautiful parks you will ever encounter in your life. It is also the only one in Portugal with the title of National Park: the Peneda Gerês Park.
Did you know? This is one of the few places in Portugal where you can find wild Garrano horses roaming freely?
However, it has gotten quite touristy, especially in certain areas of the park. Therefore, if you want a less crowded trip, we suggest visiting during spring or autumn. The weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer people than in summer. There’s also a small tourist fee if you stay overnight in Terras de Bouro. In 2025, the 1 €/night fee was applied between 1st of May and 31st of October. In 2026, the cost should remain the same.
Observe the spectacular waterfalls, and watch where you step, to avoid injuries. Moreover, hike only on marked trails, bring water, wear sunscreen and keep your phone charged.
Safety & Trail Preparation
Before setting out, always check the weather forecast and research your trail in advance. There have been cases of hikers getting lost or injured in Peneda Gerês Park (but can also happen in other parks). Therefore, proper preparation is essential. Bring sufficient water, follow marked paths, and consider carrying a basic first aid kit, especially for longer hikes.
There are many trails to explore, some of which pass by dolmens, medieval castles, monasteries, and shrines, all beautifully integrated into the landscape. To learn about the trails and the code of conduct in protected areas see Natural.pt.
2. Laurisilva Forest, Madeira Natural Park
Welcome to Madeira Natural Park, one of the most exquisite natural parks in Portugal. The Laurisilva Forest is a humid, subtropical forest in the northwest area of Madeira island. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999 and hosts thousands of unique species, like the Trocaz pigeon.
The Laurisilva forest is considered a living relic of prehistoric Europe (it dates back about 20 million years!).The trees you observe are not as old, but still centuries-old!
There are many activities available, including hiking, climbing, canyoning (with a license), and coasteering. See more about each one here.
3. Natural Park of São Miguel (Sete Cidades volcanic complex)
The island of São Miguel, in the Azores, offers one of the most beautiful natural parks in Portugal. Within the Natural Park of São Miguel, you can explore the Sete Cidades Volcanic Complex, known for its twin lakes. You can explore the area by bike or on foot, with several guided and self-guided options available.
For medium difficulty trails, check the E-bike Experience by Fun Activities Azores with a guide. This type of activity is only available from April/May to October due to the weather and safety reasons. On the other hand, you have walking tours. See which routes you are comfortable doing.
Fun Activities Azores is one of the most highly rated adventure companies on São Miguel, but alternatives such as Azores Adventure Islands and Azores Epic Adventures, also offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, canyoning, and guided nature experiences. See which suits you best.
Finally, don’t forget to absorb the incredible views! Pass by the several miradouros (viewpoints) where you can see the exquisite flowers and plants. The hills and mountains, slopes once carved by lava, rise gracefully above the emerald waters.
4. Alvão Natural Park
Welcome to the Alvão Natural Park. Observe the spectacular waterfalls and the traditional stone houses, made of schist, granite, and thatch, near the river bends. This protected area is home to a powerful River Olo, which helps create this lush green scenery amidst rocky cliffs. In addition to this, it is a nice place for canyoning or hiking, with the necessary safety precautions.
Like many natural parks in Portugal, the Alvão Natural Park is quite big. The nearest city is Vila Real. You’ll also find a camping village in the town of Vila Pouca de Aguiar.
After being settled, you’re ready to explore the fauna, including many species of amphibians, and the flora, including oak trees, birch trees and exotic trees. Although rare, the Iberian wolf inhabits this region.
Alvão Park’s ecotourism has suffered a hit last year due to the fires. However, this beautiful ecotourism spot will soon reflourish with the help of the community and your visit.
5. Ria Formosa Natural Park
Located in the Algarve Coast, Ria Formosa Natural Park is a haven for bird species. If you visit between November and March you might be lucky enough to spot some flamingos (there’s also specific tours).
In terms of activities, you can go kayaking, hiking, explore the area by foot yourself or go on a licensed boat tour. Make sure you know how to swim and wear life vests, so you can have a safe trip.
Then, enjoy lunch or dinner in the city center of Faro and taste the flavors of traditional Portuguese cuisine with fresh fish and seafood dishes.
6. Serra da Estrela Natural Park
This is the perfect destination for a winter holiday. It is one of the few places in Portugal where it snows (typically from December to March). It is also the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal, reaching 1,993 meters.
Have your first snowboarding or skiing experience here. You can find all the information you need about the Serra de Estrela Ski Park and Ski School right here. Just turn on the English version on the top right button EN.
Valley of Zezere is also a great place to visit during spring time where you can see the wildflowers bloom. Believe it or not, about 30 million years ago, this valley was covered with thick layers of ice! It’s hard to believe when you see the beautiful flowers blooming in front of you this time of the year.
See our tips to Enjoy the Magical Snow in Portugal.
7. Serra de Aires e Candeeiros Natural Park
These mountains span the municipalities of Leiria, Torres Novas, Tomar and Rio Maior. Here you will find incredible caves, such as the Grutas de Mira de Aire, carved by the water over thousands of years. For this adventure, comfortable clothing and shoes are advised. Learn more about these magical caves and how to book a visit, right here.
Outside the caves, you can see the rugged, stone-covered terrain, which has about 20 or more trails to explore. Dinosaur fans…🦖 you are in for a treat. By the cave complex, you’ll find a minerals exhibition and a fossil museum! Be sure to book beforehand.
If you have time, you can also check out the Footprints of Serra de Aire, which are an important fossil record from the Jurassic period!
8. Arrábida Natural Park Setúbal
Near Lisbon, you can find a natural relaxing escape in the Serra da Arrábida. Here you can have a lovely time on the paradisiacal beaches of Arrábida, surrounded by rocky cliffs. You can enjoy sunbathing, hiking, dolphin watching,… the activities are endless.
In the summer, relax on the white sand beaches and wet your feet in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the scenic trails across the hills. During Autumn, observe the different colors of the flora and be surprised by the birds flying over the hills. Fisgas do Ermelo is one of the highlights during the more humid months.
Finish the day by drinking a glass of wine and trying some unique local cheeses of Arrábida, called Queijos de Azeitão.
9. Tejo International Park
If you’re looking for natural parks in Portugal which are near to Lisbon, there are several like the Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve and Serra de Aires e Candeeiros Natural Park mentioned above. However, if you wish to go on a big adventure, travel a bit further (about 3 hours and a half) and take a look at Tejo International Natural Park. Castelo Branco is the nearest city.
The park’s scenery looks like a painting, ready for you to step into! Walk through nature and capture each moment. Taking safety precautions when venturing out into natural parks in Portugal is very important. Watch out for obstacles on the trail!
Tejo River has many tributaries, creating this beautiful green landscape. One of them is the Pônsul River that passes through the municipalities of Idanha-a-nova and Castelo Branco. Birdwatchers will be able to see eagles and vultures flying over the Pônsul River!
Another fun activity is canoeing, but make sure you know how to swim and that you have lifejackets.
Complete your journey in Lisbon, with a visit to the best markets with fresh produce, books and much more!
10. Natural Park of the Litoral North
(Source: Sara Jaques, Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0)
Along the River Cávado and other adjacent rivers, like the River Neiva, you’ll find a tranquil park. The Natural Park of the Litoral North is not only a great spot to watch the sunset, but also the jewel of the region. On one side it has the River Cávado and on the other side, the Atlantic Ocean.
Observe the exquisite plant species that stabilize the dunes and prevent coastal erosion. The rules of Natural Parks ensure the sustainability and conservation of these natural resources. It’s an ideal ecotourism destination for nature lovers.
The trails with windmills by the beach in Apúlia are the highlight during summer. Ofir and Esposende are other popular coastal places for sunbathing. During the colder months, you can spot the migratory birds in the Estuaries of the river Cávado and Neiva.
Today we shared with you only 10 Natural Parks in Portugal. But there are many more!
Special mention: 🌳 Douro International Natural Park is one of them. Located along the border with Spain, this park offers beautiful green landscapes and rich biodiversity. In future, articles we will explore this region in more detail, including its connection to the nearby Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and world-renowned wines.
As always, protect nature, by not making fires or leaving litter behind. 💚
Follow us to know about eco travel and nature-related trips in our next articles! 🌳 (and make suggestions down below😉)
Do you like hiking in natural parks? There’s actually a hiking alert for Madeira. Hiking Alert in Portugal
