A Traveler’s Guide to Hiking in Lisbon
Those who visit Lisbon often do so to appreciate the city’s culture and history or enjoy a relaxing break taking advantage of the wonderful climate. However, it is also a fantastic place to visit for people who enjoy the outdoors. Not only are there many walks and open spaces within the city, but there are also plenty of beautiful places to explore in the surrounding area, including nearby towns such as Sintra. One of the best ways to explore Lisbon and the surrounding countryside is on foot. Here is a traveler’s guide to hiking in Lisbon.
Cabo da Roca to Azenhas do Mar Coastal Trail
According to Moon & Honey, one of the best hikes in Lisbon is the Cabo da Roca to Azenhas do Mar Coastal Trail. It is a 6.7-mile trail that takes approximately five hours to complete. This point-to-point trail begins at Cabo da Roca and takes you along Sintra’s stunning coastline. Along the way, you will pass beaches including Praia da Ursa, Praia da Adraga, Praia Grande, and Praia das Macas. It is possible to end your walk at any of these points or continue on to Azenhas do Mar, a pretty village with white cottages overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Cruz Alta- Castelo dos Mouros Loop
A good intermediate hike with excellent views is the Cruz Alta- Castelo dos Mouros Loop from Sintra. Ideally, this walk is suited to those with good fitness levels, as it is 6.43 miles long, and there is an elevation of 1,225-feet. On the other hand, the paths are accessible and in good condition, so there are not too many challenges along the way.
Castelo de St. Jorge- Miradouro de Santa Luzia Loop from Avenida
Komoot recommends the Castelo de St. Jorge- Miradouro de Santa Luzia Loop from Avenida as one of the best urban trails in the Lisbon area. The main route is 10-1 miles long and takes around five hours to complete. However, there are various routes and deviations along the way, each of which has different landmarks and architecture to enjoy. The exact length of the walk and the time it takes to complete depends on which route you choose to take.
Torre de Belem- Arco do Rua Augusta Loop
The Torre de Belem- Arco do Rua Augusta loop begins at the Marques de Pombal. It is a 13.8-mile walk that takes you along sections of the coastline and takes approximately six hours to complete, so you should set aside a full day for this hike. Due to the length of the hike, a good fitness level is required to complete the walk. However, it is suitable for all skill levels as the paths are easily accessible and well-maintained. Completing this walk allows you to see both coastal views and architectural landmarks.
Rota Circular Amarela de Monsato
Just behind Lisbon, heading away from the coastline, is the Parque Florestal de Monsanto, which is a large national park with 2,500 acres of hilly forests to explore. Within the park, there are multiple trails to explore, and one of the best intermediate trails is the Rota Circular de Monsanto loop trial. It is a 7.2-mile trail that most people complete in under three hours. The walk takes you through forested areas along even dirt tracks, and there is some elevation along the way.
Miradouro da Luneta dos Quarteis, Montes Claros e Moinho do Penedo
Another excellent hike in the Parque Florestal de Monsanto for outdoor lovers to enjoy is the Miradouro da Luneta dos Quarteis, Mones Claros e Moinho do Penedo trail. It is a full-day hike as it takes almost six hours to complete due to its length of 11.5 miles. The path is mostly even, and it runs in a loop through the forest. From some of the elevated positions, there are views over Lisbon and out to the Atlantic Ocean.
Caminho Portugues de Costa, Lisboa a Santiago de Compestela
The Lisboa a Santiago de Compostela is a section of the Portuguese coastal pathway, Camino Portugues. This section of the route is 406 miles long, says All Trails. You can choose any section of the trail to complete depending on your fitness level. Regardless of which section you choose, the reward is stunning coastal views. The walk begins in the city, then extends along Portugal’s coastline, and there are many wineries along the way.
Trillho do Tejo
Vialonga is a village just outside Lisbon, Portugal, and that is the starting point for the Trillho do Tejo. It is less than five miles long, so it takes under two hours to complete. The walk is on predominantly flat terrain through fields, and along boardwalks, with some level bridges crossing small passages of water.
Sintra Palace, Castle of the Moors, and Pena Palace Loop
Sintra is where you will find some of the best hiking trails near Lisbon, and it is within easy traveling distance of the city with good public transport links between the two locations. A scenic and pleasurable walk to enjoy is the Sintra Palace, Castle of the Moors, and Pena Palace Loop. The walk is 6.7-miles long, and it is possible to complete it in under four hours. Not only will you see some of Portugal’s best landmarks, but there are also breathtaking views across the countryside.
Cabo Roca to Praia Giribeto via Praia Macas and Praia Mogoito
For experienced hikers who want to enjoy an activity that challenges them, the Cabo Roca to Praia Giribeto trail is a good option. It runs along the coastline of the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais and passes Praia Macas and Praia Mogoito. The walk is just over 19 miles long and will take a full day to complete with an early. Due to its length, the full walk is only suitable for experienced walkers with good fitness levels. However, it is possible to complete shorter sections of the walk if you prefer.
