Whether we like it or not, traveling has changed. Within the last year, the tourism industry has suffered more than any other because of the Coronavirus crisis. In this article, we chose to explore some of the most beautiful Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal, to give you some insights about where you can spend your next travel escape while helping Portugal’s economy, which relies heavily on tourism. Natural, remote, pristine, these destinations are perfect for the current traveling environment. Discover our TOP 10 Travel Destinations for 2020!
A paradise for nature lovers, Portugal is a country that has it all: a stunning ocean coast-line with numerous pristine beaches; intriguing mountain formations and natural parks, and sunny weather to make every travel experience delightful. From Algarve to the Duoro Valley, let’s discover the Top 10 Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal!
1. Sagres
Sagres is by far one of the most exciting places to see in Portugal. Located on the south-western part of Algarve, Sagres is a natural spectacle of waves, tall cliffs, surfers beaches, as well as a stunning lighthouse and a beautiful old fortress. A trip to Sagres is more than just about spending some wonderful days at the beach. There are many possibilities to have fun, ranging from a cultural tour of Fortaleza de Sagres to taking surfing lessons or even paragliding.
All you need to know about planning a trip to Sagres is in our dedicated blog post.
If you love iconic red lighthouses and spectacular landscapes, Sagres is a paradise for photography. It is also the inspiration for our digital prints collection. Here’s a sneak peek of what you can witness:
2. Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park
Along the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean in Algarve, there are numerous hiking pathways. The Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park is a place that many camping enthusiasts love, since the region is home to some of the most stunning pristine beaches and natural camping sights.
If you’re a sunset lover, if you enjoy a good ocean view from above, you will absolutely love this destination. After hiking for a couple of hours, it’s incredible to experience a view like this:
Another thing you’ll love about Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park and the nearby area is the unique natural landscape that’s specific to this area of Portugal. And, to top it off, you might have some adorable company on the way.
We loved this area of Portugal so much, that we decided to set up camp for the whole summer at Figueira Caravan Park. We highly recommend them!
Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal
3. Praia do Amado
Because we love Algarve so much, we have to include some of our favorite pristine beaches in the area. Not only is Praia do Amado a gorgeous beach, with tall cliffs and perfect sand, but it is also in very close proximity to Sagres. So there it is, two destinations in one go!
4. Bordeira Beach
By far one of the most spectacular beaches we stumbled upon, Bordeira Beach is a must-see! One of Algarve’s most beautiful natural destinations, Bordeira is also a favorite spot for campers and surfers.
If stunning pristine beaches are your thing, check out our take on The Most Beautiful Beaches in Algarve!
5. Cordoama Beach
Cordoama Beach is like no other place you’ve seen before. It’s the place where the clouds meet the ocean, where the weather is warm and chilly at the same time. If there is one natural destination on the Algarve coastline that you absolutely can’t miss, it’s Cordoama beach.
Interested to know more? Check out our dedicated Cordoama Beach blog post!
Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal
6. Sintra
When it comes to the Top 10 Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal, we can’t give all the credit to the Algarve region. Therefore, let’s move on somewhere further up north! Only a few kilometers away from Lisbon, easily reachable by train, discover the stunning Sintra!
Miles and miles of natural landscapes and parks, encircling some of the most intriguing castles you’ll see in Europe. Our top recommendations are visiting Quinta da Regaleira and The Pena Palace. However, the highlight of our trip were the enchanting Pena Palace gardens, a fairytale-like experience.
Planing a trip to Sintra? Check out our full guide for some amazing tips!
7. Douro Valley
2020 is the perfect time to visit Douro Valley! One of the most exciting destinations for nature lovers in Portugal, Douro Valley is also home to some of Portugal’s most renowned wineries. Whether you opt for a guided tour or choose to venture on your own, make sure to book at least one wine-testing!
Here is our guide to discovering Duoro valley by car, and creating your own itinerary. We also recommend our favorite wine-tasting experience and Quintas! Departure point: Porto.
Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal
8. Matosinhos
If you’re ever in Porto, Matosinhos is a must-see! It’s basically a tiny city near the city of Porto, with a long beach line along the Atlantic coast. We recommend Matosinhos for multiple reasons. Firstly, the beach is amazing, even when it’s cloudy or raining. The seagulls are a natural spectacle to watch, and if you walk along the coastline, you’ll discover a stunning lighthouse, perfect for photography enthusiasts!
Secondly, we recommend having a coffee with an ocean view. There are some unique spots where you can drink your coffee while watching the waves unfold right below the suspended terraces.
Thirdly, Matosinhos is known for its delicious cuisine. Restaurants serve the best fish and sea-fruit dishes!
Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal
9. Cabo de Sao Vicente
As our Top 10 Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal comes to an end, we return to Algarve, to one of our favorite places on earth. There are no words to describe how uniquely magnificent Cabo de Sao Vicente is. It’s one of those places that you just have to see for yourself!
People come together every day to watch the sunset over the Atlantic ocean here. Cabo de Sao Vicente is the most south-western point in Europe, and it is has been for us, the most beautiful natural destination we’ve seen so far in our travels.
If you want to see more, check out our guide to Cabo de Sao Vicente!
10. Ponta Da Piedade
Finally, we’ve reached the end of our Top 10 Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal. And last, but far from least, is Ponta da Piedade, this little natural paradise. Ponta da Piedade is 15 minutes away from Lagos, one of Algarve’s beautiful cities.
The place is famous for its unique rock formations and pristine beaches and caves. Some of these beaches can only be accessed by boat, or if you’re a really good swimmer and you’re not afraid of diving.
Plan your trip to Ponda da Piedade with out dedicated guide!
Top 10 Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal
If you’ve enjoyed our Top 10 Destinations for Nature Lovers in Portugal, make sure to share it with your friends! But how about you? What is your favorite travel destination in Portugal? Leave us your recommendations below!
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