Best National Parks & Nature Reserves To Explore In Portugal This Year

When thinking of Portugal, most people picture idyllic cliff-backed beaches, cobblestoned towns and cities, and delightful wine. However, nestled as it is on the Iberian Peninsula, the country has many natural attractions, including a national park and nature reserves. This protected wilderness offers hiking among beautiful scenery, along rugged cliffs and highland trails. Travelers can also find a little paradise of their own on a deserted Algarve island.

Here we explore three stunning nature destinations in Portugal.

Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, Portugal

Hidden away in the lesser-visited eastern part of the Algarve, Parque Natural da Ria Formosa offers lagoons, salt pans and marshlands. However, the major attraction here is the natural park’s sandy barrier islands. Moreover, the islands are all short boat trips from towns like Tavira, Faro and Olhão. Meanwhile, Ilha da Barreta is the most isolated of the islands and is better known as the Ilha Deserta (Deserted Island). Here, travelers can spend time swimming in the clear waters, or looking for birds on the boardwalk trails.

Speaking of birds, on the mainland side of the park birders can sometimes spot flamingos, glossy ibis and other species along the Ria Formosa. However, taking a kayak trip through the reserve will reveal many more bird species like the rare purple swamp hen, dolphins and other wildlife.

Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês, Portugal

This is Portugal’s only official, designated national park and stretches some 700 sq km (270 sq mi) over the far north of the country. The mountainous reserve not only protects regional biodiversity but also the traditional way of life of its human residents. Throughout the reserve, around 100 small, granite-built villages can be found. Visitors can still see the traditional ox-drawn carts, along with shepherds leading their livestock through the pastures.

Among the activities to enjoy here are hiking the 2000-year-old Via Geira Roman Road, or kayaking on the Cavado River. Near the Spanish border, visit the Castelo de Lindoso, dating back to the 13th century. Meanwhile, for those seeking relaxation, the spa town of Vila do Gerês is the perfect place to be and is also an ideal base for other adventures.

Parque Natural da Arrábida, near Lisbon

Returning to the coast, the Parque Natural da Arrábida is less than an hour’s drive south of Lisbon. While close to the bustling city, here, visitors can explore rugged cliffs, forested hillsides and golden beaches. Parque Natural da Arrábida stretches along the southeastern coast of the Setúbal Peninsula and is rich with Mediterranean plants and trees, including olive, pistachio, lavender and thyme. Meanwhile, birders can spot eagles and kestrels soaring over the forested hillsides.

The natural park also offers amazing views from the top of the limestone peaks of the Serra do Risco. After hitting the trails, hikers can then cool off on one of the park’s beaches. Praia dos Galapos is the ideal swimming beach, with its crystal-clear waters and calm seas, perfect for families.

Visit these and other beautiful natural parks and nature reserves on your next visit to Portugal.