Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Walking
Portugal's wonderful walking potential is all the better because so few people know about
it. Most organised walking clubs are found in the Algarve, there is a cluster of organisa-
tions around Monchique but other good bases are Sagres and Vila Real de Santo António.
Northern Portugal has more mountainous terrain and several lovely, little-visited natural
parks.
When to Walk
Summer temperatures can get stiflingly hot in some regions - particularly Trás-os-Montes,
Beira Baixa, the Alentejo and the Algarve. To beat the heat, consider travelling in spring
(April and May) or autumn (late September and October).
What to Take
Wherever you go, you'll want a hat, strong sun protection and some type of palliative for
aching feet. A compass can come in handy, as trail maintenance and signposting are often
spotty. Maps (or photocopies thereof) are best obtained at local
turismos
(tourist offices). If
you're headed to the showery north, be sure to bring reliable rain gear.
BEST READS BEFORE HITTING THE TRAIL
The following topics, available online or at bookstores in Lisbon and Porto, are great planning aids for some of the
country's best hikes.
»
Walking in the Algarve: 40 Coastal & Mountain Walks
, by Julie Statham and June Parker (2006), Cicerone
Press − An excellent guide co-authored by British-born Algarve resident and tour leader, Julie Statham.
»
Landscapes of Algarve: Car Tours and Walks
, by Brian and Eileen Anderson (revised 2012), Sunflower Books
− Lots of useful information for exploring the southern coast.
»
Routes to the Landscapes and Habitats of Portugal
, by Pedro Castro Henriques, Renato Neves and João Carlos
Farinha (2005), Assirio & Alvim − Features environmentally -focused routes all over Portugal.
»
Portugal Passo-a-Passo: 20 Passeios por Portugal
, by Abel Melo e Sousa and Rui Cardoso (2004), Edições
Afrontamento − A great little guide for anyone who reads Portuguese, with full-colour pictures and maps outlining
20 hikes all around the country.
