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Portugal Historic Village Hiking

Picturesque Trails from Lisbon to the Central Massif

 

The Iberian Peninsula's best-kept secret, Portugal's countryside is dotted with medieval castles and hilltop villages - a land characterized by old-world charm and welcoming people. Journey from one picturesque village to another, learning about Portugal's citizens, culture, and rich history. Hear tales of Roman rule and successive invasions by Visigoths and Moors, and take in the haunting sounds of fado singers on a walking tour of Lisbon's old quarter. Feel the soul of Portugal as expert local guides bring the past and present to life.

  • Marvel at stunning views from a mountaintop castle overlooking "the most Portuguese village in Portugal"

  • Enjoy hikes through the Serra da Estrela National Park in the mountainous central massif

  • Take a walking tour of Lisbon, with its Gothic cathedrals, majestic monasteries, and narrow lanes

Contact an Expert

Arrive:

Lisbon, Portugal

Depart:

Lisbon, Portugal

Price: from $4,495

Duration:

8 Days

Departures:

See Dates

Group Size:

3-16 Guests

Min Age:

16 yrs

Activity:

Level 3

Walks average about 6 miles per day, with approximately 1200 feet of elevation gain per day on average. The walks go from village to village, taking you on old Roman roads, walking paths, through forests and up some steep rocky slopes. There are some stairs and cobblestones in the villages as well, so be prepared for a variety of terrain.
Learn more here.

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

  • Arrive in Lisbon

    Day 1

    Arrive at Lisbon Portela Airport in the morning and meet your MT Sobek representative, who will transfer you to the hotel. Enjoy some time to check in and freshen up before lunch, then take a walking tour through the old town of Lisbon, and the Mouraria and Alfama neighborhoods. Finish the first day with a festive welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

    Accommodation: Hotel Avani Avenida da Liberdade

    Located in the heart of Lisbon's main shopping district, Hotel Avani Avenida da Liberdade is an urban oasis of contemporary comfort. Each room offers modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, a coffee/tea maker, and LCD TV with views overlooking the cityscape. Spend your free time by dining on the culinary delights of acclaimed Mediterranean chef Olivia Avenida, lounging by the pool or sipping on cocktails at the rooftop bar.

    Accommodation: Hotel Marques de Pombal

    Guestrooms at Hotel Marques de Pombal are equipped with the luxuries of home with an added touch of Portugal. Comfortable and modern, each room is soundproofed and equipped with air conditioning, iHome, desk, safety deposit box, free Wi-Fi, minibar, HDTV, and a private bathroom with toiletries and a hairdryer.

    Meals: Lunch, Dinner

  • Journey to Salvaterra do Extremo & Hike to Monfortinho

    Day 2

    After a hearty breakfast, begin the journey inland to the small village of Salvaterra do Extremo, near the border of Spain, to begin today's hike on varied terrain along an ancient Roman road. Stroll around this charming place, a former stronghold used by the Romans and the Arabs, seeing traditional homes made of shale, the House of Sardoes (lizards), a moon-shaped well, the bell tower of Casa da Camara (complete with storks in the belfry!), and the cylindrical granite stiles. Continue on to Monfortinho, home for the next two nights.

    Accommodation: O Hotel Fonte Santa-Monfortinho, Portugal

    Recently renovated, the Fonte Santa is a charming, upscale hotel that was built in the early 1940s, surrounded by a wild natural landscape in the foothills of Penha Garcia. All rooms offer modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars and safes, and breathtaking views of the beautiful surroundings.

    Activity: 4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 954' elevation gain & 990' elevation loss

    Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike to the Villages of Idanha-a-Velha, Monsanto & Penha Garcia

    Day 3

    Hike through a dazzling landscape today, from village to village. Begin in Idanha-a-Velha, a former Roman settlement dating back to 16 A.D. Hike up to ancient Monsanto, "the most Portuguese village in Portugal," perched against the face of a rocky cliff where houses sit wedged between giant boulders. Hike up to the castle above it, for a picnic lunch and stunning panoramas. En route back, take a brief side hike to the village of Penha Garcia, with its labyrinth of streets winding among small, flower-covered houses. Hike back to Monfortinho for dinner.

    Accommodation: O Hotel Fonte Santa-Monfortinho, Portugal

    Recently renovated, the Fonte Santa is a charming, upscale hotel that was built in the early 1940s, surrounded by a wild natural landscape in the foothills of Penha Garcia. All rooms offer modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars and safes, and breathtaking views of the beautiful surroundings.

    Activity: 5.5 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1,795' elevation gain & 495' elevation loss

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Explore the Villages of Sortelha, Belmonte & Linhares da Beira

    Day 4

    Leave Monfortinho after breakfast and head to the medieval village of Sortelha, with its walled fortress high atop a rocky promontory at 2,500 feet. Continue to Belmonte village, dominated by a 13th-century castle and a labyrinth of ancient alleyways that make up the old Jewish quarter; Belmonte is still home to the largest Jewish community in Portugal. Continue to Linhares da Beira, a Lusitanian hill fort on the western slopes of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. Today ends at Penhas Douradas on the central high plains of Estrela Mountain.

    Accommodation: Casa das Penhas Douradas Design Hotel & Spa-Manteigas, Portugal

    A four-star boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, the Casa das Penhas Douradas showcases minimalist design that brings the natural surroundings to life. Rooms feature panoramic windows and a full spectrum of luxe amenities. The spa has a swimming pool and sauna, while the restaurant serves delicious gourmet fare.

    Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike in Serra da Estrela Natural Park

    Day 5

    Today hike through the diverse landscapes of Penhas Douradas, a region of Serra da Estrela Natural Park marked by rocky outcrops, boulders and crags, several of which resemble human forms. The destination today is the dam of the Vale do Rossim, a picturesque lake with a small beach perfect for resting, soaking your feet, and enjoying a nice picnic. Then head back to the hotel, arriving in the early afternoon to relax or explore.

    Accommodation: Casa das Penhas Douradas Design Hotel & Spa-Manteigas, Portugal

    A four-star boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, the Casa das Penhas Douradas showcases minimalist design that brings the natural surroundings to life. Rooms feature panoramic windows and a full spectrum of luxe amenities. The spa has a swimming pool and sauna, while the restaurant serves delicious gourmet fare.

    Activity: 3 hours/5.5 miles hiking with 1,092' elevation gain & 1,046' elevation loss

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Visit the Village of Piodao & Arrive in Lousa

    Day 6

    Today leave Serra da Estrela behind, heading towards the small town of Lousa. En route, visit the photogenic village of Piodao, where cobblestone avenues lined with shale houses cascade down a gentle slope. With its white facades and cylindrical buttresses, a beautiful 19th-century church dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Conceicao stands out among the shale houses. Reach today's destination, the charming town of Lousa, in the middle of the afternoon, with plenty of time to unwind or explore.

    Accommodation: Hotel Melia Palacio da Lousa Lousa, Portugal

    Inside an 18th-century palace in Lousa's historical center, Hotel Melia Palacio da Lousa has been reimagined as a boutique hotel that blends the charm of an historical setting with state-of-the-art technology. Guests can enjoy an excellent meal in the restaurant, a dip in the pool, or a cocktail outside on the patio with great mountain views.

    Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Leave Lousa & Enjoy Fado in Lisbon

    Day 7

    Start at the Castle of Arouce and hike on the magnificent Serra da Lousa trail, passing through villages seemingly lost in time. Wander through the winding alleyways of Talasnal and drink straight from the village's spring fountain. Continue across bridges and creeks and climb towards the village of Casal Novo, then catch amazing views of the valley and the castle. After lunch, take a dip in a river pool before returning to Lisbon. Check in and head out for dinner in a casa de fado, a restaurant that features Portuguese fado music.

    Accommodation: Hotel Avani Avenida da Liberdade

    Located in the heart of Lisbon's main shopping district, Hotel Avani Avenida da Liberdade is an urban oasis of contemporary comfort. Each room offers modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, a coffee/tea maker, and LCD TV with views overlooking the cityscape. Spend your free time by dining on the culinary delights of acclaimed Mediterranean chef Olivia Avenida, lounging by the pool or sipping on cocktails at the rooftop bar.

    Accommodation: Hotel Marques de Pombal

    Guestrooms at Hotel Marques de Pombal are equipped with the luxuries of home with an added touch of Portugal. Comfortable and modern, each room is soundproofed and equipped with air conditioning, iHome, desk, safety deposit box, free Wi-Fi, minibar, HDTV, and a private bathroom with toiletries and a hairdryer.

    Activity: 3 hours/4 miles hiking with 1,607' elevation gain & loss

    Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Depart from Lisbon

    Day 8

    Enjoy breakfast before your guide assists with your airport transfer (3 hours before your scheduled flight).

    Meals: Breakfast

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Portugal Historic Village Hiking

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

What to Expect

 

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

This popular and unique MT Sobek journey follows an age-old route through Portugal's most historic villages.

Reason #02

Expert guides lead you from one picture-perfect village to the next, providing insight into Portugal's people, culture, heritage and rich history.

Reason #03

This memorable MT Sobek journey is bookended with a walking tour of Portugal's capital, Lisbon, and a fado dinner show.

Meet your guides

Carla Henriques

Carla Henriques

Carla's love of the outdoors was sparked by traveling around Portugal with friends and family as a child, and grew while studying at Universidade Nova de Lisboa. As the years passed, her regular job as an engineer didn't fulfill her passion for adventure, so she followed the normal path of a "travel junkie" and bought a one way ticket to Kathmandu in 2013. After exploring Asia, Carla returned to Portugal and is now happy to be able to share her passion for Portugal's beautiful outdoors with others.

Activities

Guided village-to-village hikes through gorgeous scenery and walking tours that take in the villages as well as the highlights of Lisbon.

Lodging

Boutique hotels exuding historical charm, restored palace hideaways, mountain resorts, and modern city hotels, all featuring upscale amenities.

Climate

Portugal boasts a warm, Mediterranean climate, with dry summers. There is often a sea-breeze that helps to keep the summer months bearable.

FAQ

Who will meet me on arrival?

Arrive at the Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) by 11 AM on Day 1. After clearing customs, an MT Sobek representative will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel in Lisbon.

Do I need hiking boots for this trip?

No. The best footwear for this trip would be cross-training shoes or lightweight hiking boots.

What is the food like in Portugal?

You can expect a variety of wonderful fish dishes, particularly cod (bacalhau), shellfish, cheese, pork, salads, olive oil, and some incredible red and white wines as well.

What type of clothing should I wear in Portugal?

You will want to wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bring a layer in case of light rain. In the evenings, you might prefer to dress smart casual for dinners.

Do I need a visa to enter Portugal?

No. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of 90 days or less.

What language is spoken in Portugal?

Portuguese!

Does this trip contribute to any local conservation efforts?

Yes! This trip supports the One Hiker - One Tree program, which started in 2003 after forest fires burned over 133,000 acres. One tree is donated to the Sao Mamede National Park for every hiker. Over 2,000 trees have been donated to date.

piodao sunset - Portugal Historic Village Hiking
piodao church - Portugal Historic Village Hiking
villagers - Portugal Historic Village Hiking
cross stone detail - Portugal Historic Village Hiking
drying peppers - Portugal Historic Village Hiking
cannon view - Portugal Historic Village Hiking
lisbon streetcar - Portugal Historic Village Hiking

Testimonials

"This was an awesome trip. The itinerary was fantastic and the duration was perfect. The guides were welcoming, flexible, encouraging, and delivered an experience that will never be forgotten."

Pamela K.
MT Sobek Guest, Portugal Historic Village Hiking

"All I can say is WOW. MT Sobek you have done it again. The trip to Portugal was above and beyond what I could ever hope for. The meals and hotels were excellent and the hiking was amazing."

Todd J.
MT Sobek Guest, Portugal Historic Village Hiking

Trustpilot
  • 2022
  • 2023
  • Go Private
  • Go Custom

2022

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • Sep 03 - 10, 2022
    $4,695 price per person dbl occ
    +$700 single supplement
    AvailableConfirmed
    Book This Date
  • Sep 17 - 24, 2022
    $4,920 price per person dbl occ
    +$700 single supplement
    Going FastConfirmed
    Book This Date

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

2023

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • Apr 29 - May 06, 2023
    $4,495 price per person dbl occ
    +$700 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Sep 02 - 09, 2023
    $4,495 price per person dbl occ
    +$700 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Sep 30 - Oct 07, 2023
    $4,495 price per person dbl occ
    +$700 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Private

Go Private

Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Choose from the selection of dates below for your group or if your preferred date is not available, we'll create a departure just for you.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Private Trip Pricing:

2022 Pricing

4 to 5 guests from $4,995 per person double occupancy

6 to 7 guests from $4,895 per person double occupancy

8 to 9 guests from $4,795 per person double occupancy

2023 Pricing

8 to 9 guests from $4,595 per person double occupancy

6 to 7 guests from $4,695 per person double occupancy

4 to 5 guests from $4,795 per person double occupancy

Additional Costs:

Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Make Your Own Dates in These Months

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure

Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

Start Planning

Inspiration to Explore

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