Walking in Northern Portugal

Walking in northern Portugal

 

Adventure in Northern Portugal

Northern Portugal is a region of rugged beauty, rich history and superb walking trails.

From the dramatic mountains of Peneda-Gerês National Park to the lush Costa Verde, you can find it in our guidebook to walking in Northern Portugal.

Below we have described some of our favourite walks in the region.

Serra de Arga (Walk 1)

The Serra de Arga is a small but striking range of mountains on the north side of the river Lima between Viana do Castelo and Ponte de Lima.

Composed of granite, and with a treeless summit reaching almost 800m, it looks like a huge barren flat-topped mound. But it has the distinction of being highly visible for miles around.

This walk will show you that the Serra de Arga is not as barren as it appears from a distance. Right from the start, you climb through woods, and further on encounter old watermills dotted along the streams.

As you climb higher the landscape becomes harsher, with granite peaks and tors providing a natural exhibition of surreal sculptures. At the highest point on the main walk you will get extensive views down to the coast.

From here you could take a detour to an interesting old monastery, São João d’Arga, before returning and rejoining the main route.

The last stretch takes you alongside a beautiful gorge on the river Âncora.

São Miguel circuit (Walk 3)

The route follows São Miguel – Sobredo – Germil – Froufe – São Miguel

Sobredo, Germil, São Miguel are names that roll easily off the tongue, and the images that spring to mind become magical with the passage of time.

Time is the key, for these villages seem to have settled for an existence in an age long since past. Their granite houses, their farming methods, and their mode of life have changed little with the passing of years.

But these villages are just an added bonus to a walk which explores a very scenic region. The route is partially waymarked red/white beyond Germil (GR34).

Brufe circuit (Walk 6)

The route follows Brufe – Casarotas – Chã do Sagueiral – Marco de Anta – Cortinhas – Brufe

Just in front of the Artesanato shop (closed at present, soon to reopen) there is a sign. It reads ‘In 1706 Brufe did not send men to fight in the war, but defended the homeland from here.’

This walk will take you up to the ‘front line’ of defence that the men from this village patrolled in their constant vigil against their Galician neighbours.

You can also explore further on the high ground reached and see an example of a wolf trap.

Bouças Donas circuit (Walk 8)

The route follows Bouças Donas – Branda de Bostejões – Vitoreira – Bostelinhos – Bouças Donas

Variety and points of interest are the highlights of this walk. After an initial climb of almost 200m, you head along the northwest side of a long ridge, before dropping down 450m into the village of Vitoreira.

Climbing steadily, the route then follows a line of old villages, as you circle the ridge to return to the start. Vitoreira is typical of many of the isolated villages of the region which rely solely on their own farming for survival.

Vines for vinho verde are an important crop, as they are throughout the region. In springtime it is always pleasing to see the vines breaking into new leaf. This gives a fresh green look to brighten up the sombre granite houses and give anticipation for the fruit to come.

Saojo – Murça – Saojo (Walk 10)

Soajo is a fascinating and thriving village which attracts visitors. They’re particularly here to see the espigueiros, the granite-built grain stores. These are imposingly grouped together around an open area of rock (used as a threshing and drying floor). It is worth a stop as you drive past to see them.

This circular walk explores the steep valley running north from where the car is parked and down which flows the river Adrão. Scenic interest is not lacking at any stage.

Heading first up the left bank, the river is crossed on stepping-stones by old farm buildings. There is a long climb up the other side of the valley to the farming community of Murça.

Careful navigation through the maze of trails surrounding Soajo is needed to get back to the car.

The best time of year for walking in Northern Portugal

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are generally considered the best times to walk in northern Portugal.

In spring you can enjoy mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and lush green landscapes.

During the autumn, experience the vibrant fall foliage, crisp air, and fewer walkers.

Getting around the region

There is a good express bus system in Northern Portugal, with frequent services to the major towns. This is useful if you want to travel from Viana down to Porto, for example. However, the limitations of the railways (slow) and local bus service are soon realised when you want to explore the countryside.

Buses do run along the Lima Valley as far as Arcos de Valdevez, but beyond that you need private transport.

Taxis are available in the major centres, but the distances involved to get you to the start of a walk could be long. In some cases, taxis could be used in conjunction with buses, but you must arrange to be met for the return. Sharing a taxi with friends will obviously reduce the cost.

Car hire, or taking your own car is, however, by far the best option for convenience.

In summary

Walking in northern Portugal is an unforgettable experience. With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and rich culture, this region offers a truly unique walking adventure. Buy our guidebook to walking in Northern Portugal.

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