As World Tourism Day was celebrated last month, you must have come across countless write-ups about where to head for your next holiday—but not many of them highlighted the stunning beauty of Portugal. Nestled between mountains and the sea, Portugal’s landscapes are a dream come true for nature lovers and it offers more than just postcard-perfect views.
Picture yourself hiking through the lush trails of Peneda-Gerês National Park, where cascading waterfalls and vibrant wildlife surround you. Or imagine getting enchanted by the charming Laurisilva Forest from the bygone eras. With each destination offering its own unique charm and experience, you will surely find the perfect escape that speaks to your soul. Here are some of the natural wonders in Portugal you won’t want to miss.
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Located on the west coast of São Miguel Island in the Azores, Sete Cidades is one of Portugal’s most stunning natural wonders. Something is thrilling about being surrounded by forested cliffs while experiencing a profound sense of calm. Perched on the rim of a volcanic crater, Vista do Rei (King's View) offers a majestic panorama of the twin lakes, Lagoa Azul (Blue Lake) and Lagoa Verde (Green Lake). This otherworldly landscape feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with the vibrant blue and green waters contrasting beautifully against the lush greenery of the crater.
Another must-see viewpoint is Boca do Inferno, where the final ascent opens up to a 360-degree panoramic view of the Azores' breathtaking beauty. Adventure enthusiasts can hike along the rim of the Sete Cidades caldera, where the trail offers sweeping views of the iconic twin lakes, with each step revealing more of the striking scenery below.
Tucked in Portugal's northern corner, about two hours from Porto, Peneda-Gerês National Park is the only Portuguese protected area classified as a National Park. It offers a pristine landscape of jagged peaks, ancient forests, and cascading waterfalls. This wilderness wonderland invites you to unwind as you hike through valleys lined with oak and pine, stumble upon hidden waterfalls like Pincães and Arado, and swim in the Alqueirão River Beach. The park is also home to diverse wildlife; you might spot golden eagles, roe deer (the symbol of the park), or even the elusive Iberian wolf. The wild Garrano ponies, small horses that roam freely across the hills, are a common and enchanting sight.
This vast 703-square-kilometre park is steeped in history. Explore the ancient Via Nova Roman Road (Geira) or step back in time to the traditional town of Pitões das Júnias. Take a stroll through the enchanting Mata de Albergaria oak forest and enjoy the sweeping vistas from the iconic Miradouro da Pedra Bela viewpoint, which offers some of the best views in the park.
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Benagil Cave, one of the Algarve’s and Portugal’s most iconic natural wonders, is a massive seaside cave with a striking hole in its ceiling. Sunlight streams through this opening, illuminating the golden sandstone walls and beach below, creating a spectacular light-filled dome. As you approach by boat, you’ll feel the wind in your hair and the rhythmic lull of the waves, building anticipation for this unforgettable experience.
It’s important to note that swimming to Benagil Cave from nearby beaches is strictly prohibited. Visitors are also banned from disembarking or using the sand inside the cave, so be sure to review the latest rules and regulations before planning your trip.
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The rough mountains and lush slopes of Madeira are known for their scintillating beauty. One of their top attractions is the Laurisilva Forest, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most enchanting places to go in Portugal. It is the largest remnant of a once-widespread laurel forest that thrived millions of years ago. Stepping into the Laurisilva feels like travelling back in time, with its moss-covered trees, dense canopies, and mist-shrouded paths creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
This ancient forest is a living museum of geological history and ecological diversity. It is a haven for hikers, with trails such as Levada das 25 Fontes and Levada of the Green Cauldron providing unforgettable experiences. The moderately challenging Levada das 25 Fontes rewards you with a picturesque lagoon fed by 25 natural springs, surrounded by cascading waterfalls. Alternatively, the Levada of the Green Cauldron provides a deeper immersion into the dense greenery of the Laurisilva.
The highest mountain range in mainland Portugal is a region of stunning natural beauty with dramatic landscapes and captivating heights. At 1,993 meters, Torre, its highest peak, offers sweeping panoramic views and is a major attraction for visitors, especially during the snowy winter months. Serra da Estrela is the only place in Portugal where you can enjoy skiing, sledding, snowboarding, or thrilling snowmobile rides. As the snow melts away, the warmer months reveal a different beauty, with scenic hiking trails, glacial valleys, and crystal-clear lakes, perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature.
Beyond the natural splendour, Serra da Estrela boasts cultural treasures like the medieval village of Linhares da Beira, a charming region dating back to the 12th century and a part of the list of Historical Villages of Portugal. And if you’re a lover of history and food, a visit to the Bread Museum in Seia is a must. This museum offers a unique, multi-sensory journey into Portugal’s bread-making heritage and is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
These destinations are sure to ignite your wanderlust. As you plan your next getaway, consider venturing beyond the usual tourist spots and exploring Portugal’s breathtaking natural landscapes.
