Picturesque Trails from Lisbon to the Central Massif
Explore Iberian Europe's best-kept secret on this fascinating hiking tour through Portugal's picturesque countryside. Discover a land dotted with medieval castles and hilltop villages as you journey along Roman roads and ancient paths. Experience the old-world charm of Monsanto, where houses are wedged between giant boulders, and Sortelha with its walled fortress. Then head to the rugged Serra da Estrela Natural Park, where great hiking trails abound. End by taking 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.
Explore Iberian Europe's best-kept secret on this fascinating hiking tour through Portugal's picturesque countryside. Discover a land dotted with medieval castles and hilltop villages as you journey along Roman roads and ancient paths. Experience the old-world charm of Monsanto, where houses are wedged between giant boulders, and Sortelha with its walled fortress. Then head to the rugged Serra da Estrela Natural Park, where great hiking trails abound. End by taking 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"
[Description] => Marvel at stunning views from a mountaintop castle overlooking "the most Portuguese village in Portugal"
[Image] =>
[VideoLink] =>
)
[1] => Array
(
[DisplayOrder] => 2
[HighlightText] =>
Enjoy hikes through the Serra da Estrela National Park in the mountainous central massif
[Description] => Enjoy hikes through the Serra da Estrela National Park in the mountainous central massif
[Image] =>
[VideoLink] =>
)
[2] => Array
(
[DisplayOrder] => 3
[HighlightText] =>
Take a walking tour of Lisbon, with its Gothic cathedrals, majestic monasteries, and narrow lanes
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: Lisbon Plaza Hotel
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
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
Activity: 5.5 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1,795' elevation gain & 495' elevation loss
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
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
Activity: Three historic village walking tours
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
Activity: 3 hours/5.5 miles hiking with 1,092' elevation gain & 1,046' elevation loss
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
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
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 ncasa de fado, a restaurant that features Portuguese fado music.
Accommodation: Lisbon Plaza Hotel
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).
MT Sobek has been leading guests on spectacular routes through Europe for over 50 years and this unique hiking journey follows age-old paths through Portugal's most historic villages.
In 8 days you will enjoy a memorable and well-paced hiking tour through the Central Massif, plus time to explore Portugal's capital, Lisbon, and enjoy a fado dinner show.
Local expert guides lead you from one picture-perfect village to the next, providing insight into Portugal's people, culture, and heritage. Come away knowing the people as well as the place.
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.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Carla H.
Meet Carla - an outdoor enthusiast with a deep-rooted love for nature. Her passion for the great outdoors was ignited during her childhood travels across Portugal with family and friends. Carla's eagerness to learn more about the natural world led her to pursue her studies at the prestigious Universidade Nova de Lisboa. Despite her successful career as an engineer, Carla felt unfulfilled, yearning for more adventure in her life. Driven by her desire to explore and experience different cultures, Carla embarked on a journey as a travel junkie, eventually landing in Kathmandu in 2013 with a one-way ticket in hand. Over the years, Carla has traversed through different corners of Asia, soaking in the local cultures, and uncovering hidden natural gems. However, it is the beauty of Portugal's outdoors that truly stole her heart. Today, Carla is delighted to share her passion for Portugal's mesmerizing landscapes with the world. Join her on an unforgettable adventure and experience the wonder and beauty of Portugal's great outdoors.
Pedro L.
Pedro is from the south of Portugal and has a deep passion for the outdoors. He takes great pleasure in sharing his lovely country with visitors from around the globe and has done so ever since graduating from the Tourism and Hospitality school of Coimbra. He is an adventurous person that loves to travel in order to get to know other countries, people and cultures. His grandest journey so far was a six month backpacking trip through South America. Pedro is also a bird watching enthusiast with a wide knowledge of the birds that you are likely to spot while traveling in Portugal.
Francisco T.
Francisco is focused on transformations! After eight years of experience working in a large German technology company he decided to change his life completely. Driven by a great passion for sport, a curiosity for travel, and discovering our world, he permanently activated his out-of-office mood and is always inspired by the trips he takes, the ones he guides and the people he meets along the way!
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.
[Breakfast] => 0
[Lunch] => 1
[Dinner] => 1
[Travel_Type] =>
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 38.722252
[Longitude] => -9.139337
)
[1] => Array
(
[DayFrom] => 2
[DayTo] => 2
[Headline] => Journey to Salvaterra do Extremo & Hike to Monfortinho
[ActivityOverview] => 4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 954\' elevation gain & 990\' elevation loss
[EstimatedLength] =>
[ActivityLevel] =>
[ItinBlock] =>
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.
[Breakfast] => 1
[Lunch] => 1
[Dinner] => 1
[Travel_Type] => 3-hour private van transfer
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 39.906282
[Longitude] => -6.953123
)
[2] => Array
(
[DayFrom] => 3
[DayTo] => 3
[Headline] => Hike to the Villages of Idanha-a-Velha, Monsanto & Penha Garcia
[ActivityOverview] => 5.5 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1,795\' elevation gain & 495\' elevation loss
[EstimatedLength] =>
[ActivityLevel] =>
[ItinBlock] =>
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.
[Breakfast] => 1
[Lunch] => 1
[Dinner] => 1
[Travel_Type] => 1-hour private van transfer
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 39.968921
[Longitude] => -6.931648
)
[3] => Array
(
[DayFrom] => 4
[DayTo] => 4
[Headline] => Explore the Villages of Sortelha, Belmonte & Linhares da Beira
[ActivityOverview] => Three historic village walking tours
[EstimatedLength] =>
[ActivityLevel] =>
[ItinBlock] =>
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.
[Breakfast] => 1
[Lunch] => 1
[Dinner] => 1
[Travel_Type] => 2.5-hour private van transfer
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 40.330743
[Longitude] => -7.212031
)
[4] => Array
(
[DayFrom] => 5
[DayTo] => 5
[Headline] => Hike in Serra da Estrela Natural Park
[ActivityOverview] => 3 hours/5.5 miles hiking with 1,092\' elevation gain & 1,046\' elevation loss
[EstimatedLength] =>
[ActivityLevel] =>
[ItinBlock] =>
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.
[Breakfast] => 1
[Lunch] => 1
[Dinner] => 1
[Travel_Type] => 1-hour private van transfer
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 40.333333
[Longitude] => -7.633333
)
[5] => Array
(
[DayFrom] => 6
[DayTo] => 6
[Headline] => Visit the Village of Piodao & Arrive in Lousa
[ActivityOverview] =>
[EstimatedLength] =>
[ActivityLevel] =>
[ItinBlock] =>
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.
[Breakfast] => 1
[Lunch] => 1
[Dinner] => 1
[Travel_Type] => 2-hour private van transfer
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 40.408203
[Longitude] => -7.567295
)
[6] => Array
(
[DayFrom] => 7
[DayTo] => 7
[Headline] => Leave Lousa & Enjoy Fado in Lisbon
[ActivityOverview] => 3 hours/4 miles hiking with 1,607\' elevation gain & loss
[EstimatedLength] =>
[ActivityLevel] =>
[ItinBlock] =>
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 \ncasa de fado, a restaurant that features Portuguese fado music.
Enjoy breakfast before your guide assists with your airport transfer (3 hours before your scheduled flight).
[Breakfast] => 1
[Lunch] => 0
[Dinner] => 0
[Travel_Type] =>
[Quotation] =>
[Quotation_Attribution] =>
[Quotation_Location] =>
[Itinerary_Location] =>
[Latitude] => 38.722252
[Longitude] => -9.139337
)
)
[ActivityHighlight] => 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.
[Trip_Level] => 3
)
Activity Level
This trip is rated 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 about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 954' elevation gain & 990' elevation loss
Day 3
5.5 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1,795' elevation gain & 495' elevation loss
Day 4
Three historic village walking tours
Day 5
3 hours/5.5 miles hiking with 1,092' elevation gain & 1,046' elevation loss
Day 7
3 hours/4 miles hiking with 1,607' elevation gain & loss
Accommodations
Boutique hotels exuding historical charm, restored palace hideaways, mountain resorts, and modern city hotels, all featuring upscale amenities.
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.
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.
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.
Located close to the historic center of Lisbon, the charming Lisbon Plaza Hotel features decorated rooms infused with Portuguese style. Enjoy modern amenities that include a free safe, a satellite TV, air-conditioning, a hair dryer, and a complimentary set of cozy bathrobes. Start your day with a delectable breakfast buffet, sip on refreshing cocktails at the bar, indulge in a workout at their fitness center, or simply unwind on their rooftop terrace.
Weather
Portugal boasts a warm, Mediterranean climate, with dry summers. There is often a sea-breeze that helps to keep the summer months bearable.
Apr
Sep
Lisbon
High
Low
High
Low
Lisbon
68
53
80
63
Lousa
High
Low
High
Low
Lousa
65
46
78
56
FAQs
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.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
