I live in Lisbon and as much as I am a city girl, I love hiking and exploring nature. Because Parque Florestal de Monsanto is so close to my home, I haven’t really explored outside of the area. That, however is going to change and is the reason I am writing up this blog. I’ll update it as I visit each spot to give you my experience and feel about the place. If you have already been and have tips about these places, leave in the comments below.
National Parks in Portugal
Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais
The park is located in the western region of Portugal, just a short distance from Lisbon. To get there, you can take a train from Lisbon to the town of Sintra, which takes about 40 minutes, or you can drive, which takes about 30 minutes depending on traffic. From Sintra, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the park. If you prefer to stay in the town of Cascais, you can also take a train from Lisbon to Cascais, which takes about 45 minutes. From Cascais, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the park.
What to See and Do at Sintra Cascais Natural Park?
- Visit Pena Palace – The Pena Palace is a stunning 19th-century palace located in the park. It is known for its elaborate architecture and gardens, and is a must-see for any visitor to the park.
- Hike the trails – The park is home to a network of trails that offer a range of difficulty levels, so you can choose the route that best suits your interests and abilities. The park is known for its beautiful landscapes, including forests, cliffs, and beaches, so there is plenty to explore.
- Go surfing – The park is located on the Atlantic coast, and is known for its good surf conditions. If you’re a surfer, you’ll want to bring your board and hit the waves.
Visit the park’s museums – Sintra Cascais Natural Park is home to several museums that offer insights into the park’s history and culture. These include:
the National Museum of Archaeology
the Sintra National Palace
and the Cascais Cultural Centre.
Go shopping – The towns of Sintra and Cascais are known for their charming streets and squares, which are lined with shops and restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets and see what you can find.
When is the best time to visit Sintra Cascais Natural Park?
The best time to visit Sintra Cascais Natural Park depends on what you are interested in doing during your visit. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:
- Weather: Sintra Cascais Natural Park has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and cooler winters. If you prefer milder weather, the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are good times to visit. During the summer (July to August), temperatures can reach the mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit), so it can be quite hot and humid. In the winter (December to March), temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at higher elevations, so you’ll need to pack warm clothing if you’re planning to visit during this time.
Wildlife: If you’re interested in seeing specific species of flora and fauna, you’ll want to visit at a time when they are most active. For example, if you want to see the park’s wildflowers in bloom, you’ll want to visit during the spring or summer. If you’re interested in birdwatching, you’ll want to visit during the migratory season (spring and fall), when a variety of bird species pass through the park.
Crowds: Sintra Cascais Natural Park is a popular destination, especially during the summer months. If you prefer to avoid crowds, you may want to visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) when the park is less busy.
Overall, the best time to visit Sintra Cascais Natural Park depends on your interests and preferences. I recommend checking the weather forecast and considering the activities you want to do during your visit to help you decide on the best time to go.
I also put together tips for visiting Sintra. It can get Disney World crowded there. so click the bold text to check out the tips.
Parque Natural do Rio Formosa
I’ve actually been here and it was lovely. I stayed in the town of Fuseta and had no idea my AirBnB was on a national park. It was gorgeous. There were birds I had never seen. Portuguese men would walk out into the low tide in the morning to find shellfish which were served later at the local restaurants. The actual swimming beach was away from this area, a 5 minute boat ride away. I highly recommend it. Here’s a little more info for you on the Rio Formoso Park.
Rio Formosa National Park is located in the eastern region of Portugal, near the Algarve region. The park is accessible by car or public transportation. If you’re coming from Lisbon, you can take a train to the town of Tavira, which is located near the park. The journey by train takes about 2 hours, depending on the route taken. From Tavira, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the park. Alternatively, you can drive from Lisbon, which takes about 2.5 hours depending on traffic and the route taken. To get there, you can also take a train from Faro to the town of Olhão, which takes about 15 minutes, or you can drive, which takes about 20 minutes depending on traffic. From Olhão, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the park.
What to See and Do at Rio Formosa National Park?
Go birdwatching – Rio Formosa National Park is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, storks, and herons. If you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, you’ll want to bring your binoculars and set out on a birdwatching adventure.
Go on a boat tour – The park is home to several lagoons and channels, and a boat tour is a great way to see the park’s natural beauty. You can join a guided tour or rent a kayak or canoe to explore on your own.
Visit the park’s beaches – Rio Formosa National Park is located on the Atlantic coast, and is home to several beautiful beaches. Take a stroll along the beach and go for a swim in the Atlantic Ocean.
Go hiking – The park is home to a network of trails that offer a range of difficulty levels, so you can choose the route that best suits your interests and abilities. The park is known for its beautiful landscapes, including forests, dunes, and lagoons, so there is plenty to explore.
Visit the park’s museums – Rio Formosa National Park is home to several museums that offer insights into the park’s history and culture. These include the Museum of Salt, the Museum of the Sea, and the Museum of Natural History.
Go fishing – The park is home to several rivers and lagoons, which are teeming with fish. If you’re an angler, you’ll want to bring your gear and see what you can catch.
Go cycling – The park is home to a network of trails that are perfect for cycling. Rent a bike and explore the park’s beautiful landscapes, including forests, marshes, and beaches.
When is the Best Time to Visit Rio Formosa National Park?
The best time to visit Rio Formosa Natural Park depends on what you are interested in doing during your visit. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Weather: Rio Formosa Natural Park has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and cooler winters. If you prefer milder weather, the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are good times to visit. During the summer (July to August), temperatures can reach the mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit), so it can be quite hot and humid. In the winter (December to March), temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at higher elevations, so you’ll need to pack warm clothing if you’re planning to visit during this time.
Wildlife: If you’re interested in seeing specific species of flora and fauna, you’ll want to visit at a time when they are most active. For example, if you want to see the park’s wildflowers in bloom, you’ll want to visit during the spring or summer. If you’re interested in birdwatching, you’ll want to visit during the migratory season (spring and fall), when a variety of bird species pass through the park.
Crowds: Rio Formosa Natural Park is a popular destination, especially during the summer months. If you prefer to avoid crowds
, you may want to visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) when the park is less busy.
Overall, the best time to visit Rio Formosa Natural Park depends on your interests and preferences. I recommend checking the weather forecast and considering the activities you want to do during your visit to help you decide on the best time to go.
Serra De Estrela National Park
How to Get To Serra de Estrela Natural Park?
The park is located in the central region of Portugal, about 200 kilometers (124 miles) from Lisbon. To get there, you can take a bus or train from Lisbon to the town of Seia, which is located near the park. The journey by bus takes about 4 hours, and the journey by train takes about 3 hours. From Seia, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the park. If you prefer to drive, the journey from Lisbon takes about 3 hours, depending on traffic and the route you take.
What to See and Do at Serra de Estrela Natural Park?
Go skiing – Serra de Estrela Natural Park is home to Portugal’s highest mountain, the Torre, which is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. If you’re a fan of winter sports, you’ll want to visit during the ski season (December to April) to hit the slopes.
Visit the park’s museums – Serra de Estrela Natural Park is home to several museums that offer insights into the park’s history and culture. These include the Serra da Estrela Natural Park Museum, the Serra da Estrela Cheese Museum, and the Serra da Estrela Sheepdogs Museum.
Hike the trails – The park is home to a network of trails that offer a range of difficulty levels, so you can choose the route that best suits your interests and abilities. The park is known for its beautiful landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers, so there is plenty to explore.
Take a rafting adventure – The park is home to several rivers, including the Mondego and the Zêzere, which offer exciting opportunities for rafting and other water sports. If you’re looking for a thrilling outdoor activity, don’t miss the chance to experience the rush of rafting in Serra de Estrela Natural Park.
Pack a picnic and relax by the river – Grab your favorite snacks and drinks, and head to a secluded spot by one of the park’s picturesque rivers for a laid-back picnic. Just don’t feed the animals. It’s not good for them.
Go on a wildflower-hunting expedition – Serra de Estrela Natural Park is home to a diverse array of beautiful wildflowers, including orchids and buttercups. Embark on a mission to spot as many different species as you can, and see who can discover the most exotic specimens.
Take stunning photos – The park’s breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a photo shoot. Strike a pose in front of a mountain peak, by a river, or amidst a field of wildflowers, and snap some stunning shots for your social media feed. Just be mindful of your surroundings and don’t linger too long in one spot, as other park visitors may be passing through.
When is the Best Time to Visit Serra De Estrela?
You guessed it. The best time to visit Serra de Estrela Natural Park depends on what you are interested in doing during your visit. The following will give you an idea as to what to expect in Serra De Estrela depending on when you visit:
Weather: The weather in Serra de Estrela Natural Park can vary significantly depending on the time of year you visit. In the summer (July to August), temperatures can soar to the mid-30s Celsius (mid-90s Fahrenheit), making it quite hot and humid. If you prefer milder temps, the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are good times to visit. During the winter (December to March), temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at higher elevations, so be sure to pack warm clothing if you’re planning to visit during this time.
Wildlife: If you’re hoping to see a specific type of flora or fauna, it’s best to visit during a time when they are most active. For example, if you want to see the park’s wildflowers in bloom, plan your trip for the spring or summer. Or, if you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, visit during the migratory seasons (spring and fall) to catch a glimpse of a variety of feathered friends.
Crowds: Serra de Estrela Natural Park is a popular destination, especially during the summer months. If you prefer a more peaceful visit, you may want to plan your trip for the shoulder seasons (spring or fall), when the park is less crowded.
Overall, the best time to visit Serra de Estrela Natural Park depends on your interests and preferences. I recommend checking the weather forecast and considering the activities you want to do during your visit to help you decide on the best time to go.
Peneda-Geres National Park
I have not had the opportunity to explore the national parks in Portugal yet. However, I am interested in visiting Peneda-Gerês National Park, which is located in the northwest of the country.
How to Get To Peneda-Gerês?
The park is approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) away from Lisbon, and there are several options for getting there. I could drive, which would take about 4 hours depending on traffic and the route I take. Alternatively, there are several bus companies that offer regular service from Lisbon to the park, which takes about 5-6 hours. Another option is to fly to Porto, which is about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the park, and then take a bus or rent a car to reach the park.
What to See and Do at Peneda-Gerês National Park.
Go on a wildflower-spotting safari – Peneda-Gerês National Park is home to a variety of beautiful wildflowers, including orchids and buttercups. Set out on a mission to spot as many as you can and see who can find the most exotic species!
Have a picnic by the river – Pack a picnic lunch and find a secluded spot by one of the park’s beautiful rivers to enjoy your meal. Don’t forget to bring some bread to feed the ducks (or to throw at your picnic companions, if that’s more your style).
Play a game of “I Spy” – With so much natural beauty to take in, Peneda-Gerês National Park is a great place to play a game of “I Spy.” Take turns trying to spot different plants, animals, or natural features, and see who can find the most obscure ones.
Go on a treasure hunt – Peneda-Gerês National Park is home to a variety of hidden gems, including ancient ruins and secluded waterfalls. Set out on a treasure hunt to see how many you can find and add them to your “National Park Adventurer” badge collection.
Have a photo shoot – The park’s stunning landscapes make for a great backdrop for a photo shoot. Strike a pose in front of a waterfall, on a mountain peak, or amidst a field of wildflowers and snap some Instagram-worthy shots. Just don’t be an ass and take too long. People will be walking there and I have no qualms about walking through your photo shoot.
When is the best time to Visit Peneda-Gerês National Park?
The best time to visit Peneda-Gerês National Park depends on what you are interested in doing during your visit. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing:
Weather: If you’re a fan of hot, sticky weather, summer (July to August) is the time to go. Just be prepared to sweat like a pig in a bacon factory. But if you prefer milder temps, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are your best bets. And if you’re a fan of frosty fingers and toes, don’t forget to pack your warmest coat for a winter visit (December to March).
Wildlife: Want to see the park’s wildflowers in all their glory? Spring and summer are the best times to visit. Or if you’re a birdwatching fanatic, plan your trip for the migratory seasons (spring and fall) to catch a glimpse of a variety of feathered friends.
Crowds: Peneda-Gerês National Park is super popular in the summer, so if you want to avoid the crowds, plan your trip for the off seasons (spring or fall). That way, you can enjoy the park’s natural beauty without having to fight for a spot on the trail.
Parque Natural de Montesinho
Parque Natural de Montesinho, located in Northern Portugal, very close to the border with Spain (I assume you already know that Portugal is completely separate from Spain – I am shocked at how many people think it is part of Spain). This national park is known for its varied terrain. You’ll be surrounded in mountains, forests, and rivers.
Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking (with various levels of difficulty), birdwatching, and exploring the local villages and their traditional way of life. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat or an adventure in nature, Parque Natural de Montesinho has something for everyone.
How to Get To Parque Natural de Montesinho?
The park is easily accessible from the nearby town of Bragança, which can be reached by car or public transportation. The nearest train station to Parque Natural de Montesinho is in the town of Bragança, which is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away. From Bragança, you can take a train to Lisbon, which takes about 5-6 hours.
If you are coming from Porto,
The drive from Porto to Parque Natural de Montesinho takes about 3.5 hours, depending on the route taken and traffic. To get there, you can take the A1 motorway and follow signs for Bragança. From Bragança, you can follow signs to the park.
Bus: There are several bus companies that offer regular service from Porto to Bragança, which is the nearest town to the park. The journey by bus takes about 4-5 hours.From Bragança, you can take an Uber or local bus to reach the park.
What to See and Do at Parque Natural de Montesinho.
The park is easily accessible from the nearby town of Bragança, which can be reached by car or public transportation.
Some of the activities that visitors to the park can enjoy include:
Hiking – There are a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging, so you can pick the one that best fits your interests and abilities.
Birdwatching – The park is home to a variety of bird species, including golden eagles, vultures, and black storks. Keep your eyes peeled and your binoculars handy to catch a glimpse of these majestic birds.
Exploring local villages – Take a trip back in time and visit the traditional villages within the park to learn more about their way of life and cultural traditions.
Visiting historical sites – The park is home to a number of historical sites, including the Castelo de Bragança, the Torre de Menagem, and the Domus Municipalis.
Relaxing – Take some time to relax and unwind in the beautiful surroundings of the park. Enjoy a picnic by the river, go fishing, or simply sit back and take in the stunning views.
When is the best time to Visit Parque Natural de Montesinho?
The best time to visit Parque Natural de Montesinho depends on your interests and preferences. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Weather: If you like milder weather, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are great times to go. But if you’re a heat seeker, summer (July to August) is when the temperatures really soar (just make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen). And if you’re more of a winter person, pack your warmest coat – it can get chilly in the park during the winter months (December to March). No matter when you visit, though, you’re guaranteed to have a great time in this beautiful park.
Wildlife: Let’s talk about birds! Parque Natural de Montesinho is home to a variety of feathered friends, including golden eagles, black storks, and azure-winged magpies (just to name a few). Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just appreciate a good chirp, this park is the place for you.
Crowds: Peneda-Gerês National Park is super popular in the summer, so if you want to avoid the crowds, plan your trip for the off seasons (spring or fall). That way, you can enjoy the park’s natural beauty without having to fight for a spot on the trail.
National Parks In Portugal
Beyond the capital, throughout Portugal, are several protected areas and protected National Parks. This article provides a list of national and natural parks in Portugal and recommends activities to do at each park. Peneda-Gerês National Park is known for its wildflowers, rivers, and ancient ruins, while Serra de Estrela Natural Park is a popular destination for rafting, wildflower spotting, and photo shoots. Sintra Cascais Natural Park is home to the Pena Palace, museums, and charming shopping areas, while Rio Formosa Natural Park offers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and surfing. I’ll update this article as I visit more of these spots. If you have a question about any one of them, leave your questions in the comments below.