Located on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal attracts large numbers of tourists every year due to its wonderful weather and rich environment full of lots of activities. While many people come to enjoy the vibrant cities of Lisbon, Sintra and Porto. Others come to enjoy the spectacular beaches spread across the coastline of the place. Portugal has a very picturesque and diverse landscape and visiting the islands of Azores and Madeira is a pleasant experience for tourists. The country is full of natural beauty and has some of the most beautiful national parks that one can visit on the planet. Here we have compiled a list of the best National Parks in Portugal,
10 Best National Parks in Portugal
Take a look at the best national parks of Portugal that offer a glimpse of the country’s vibrant wildlife and provide an experience of a lifetime!
- Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
- Peneda-Geres National Park
- Arbida Natural Park
- South-West Alentejo and Vicente Coast
- Serra da Estrela Natural Park
- Montesinho Natural Park
- Ria Formosa Natural Park
- North Coast National Park
- Alvao Natural Park
- Douro International Natural Park
1. Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
Sintra-Cascais National Park is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Portugal, spread over an area of 145 square kilometers. This park has lots of amazing attractions that any visitor will love. This park is mainly known for its historical sites that may surprise you. Some sights worth seeing are the Castle of the Moors which dates back to the 8th century and the Eske Peña Palace which rises above the trees around it and is prominently situated on the hilltop. Nature lovers visiting here will love the magnificent park with diverse landscapes. The Sintra-Cascais Natural has plenty of breathtaking views if you’re keen to see its full length and breadth.
Place: Sintra-Cascais, Portugal
Time: 9 am to 8 pm
entrance fees: (6/4/18)Euro(Adult/Child/Family)
Must read: 9 Best Churches in Lisbon That Will Make Your Portugal Holidays More Memorable
2. Peneda-Geres National Park
Located in northern Portugal, Peneda-Geres is Portugal’s only national park. This national park was established to conserve and protect the wildlife and unique landscapes. Mount Geras is inaccessible and fascinating to explore. The trails and paths here wind their way in and around the park’s ideal environment and it has an abundance of interesting sites, from distinctive granaries to unique rock formations. There are also many beautiful waterfalls here. You must see the ruins of this park. Also check out the Portugal National Parks map online as it is a vast area and a map will definitely help to make the most of it.
Place: Peneda-Geres National Park, Portugal
Time: 9 am to 12 noon and 2 pm to 5:30 pm
entrance fees: 2 euros per car
Read suggestions: 10 Top Theme Parks in Portugal That Will Add More Fun and Thrill to Your Holidays
3. Cultivated Natural Park
Beautiful sandy beaches, beautiful rocks, low mountains, lush vegetation are some of the natural features of the Arrabida Natural Park. The Mediterranean climate here has provided abundant flora and fauna, enough to paint the landscape in bright colours. A popular escape for people living in Lisbon. Figuerinha and Galapinhos are the pristine beaches of this place, the beautiful area can be enjoyed by strolling along soothing coastal paths that can soothe your soul as the sea breeze gently cools your skin. Take a boat trip and experience the beauty of the coast from a distance, and when out on the water under the bright sun you will be greeted by a stunning and endless panorama that stretches out before you.
Place: Arrabida Natural Park, Portugal
Time: 10 am to 6 pm
entrance fees: free admission
Read suggestions: Azores Islands: A handy guide to this gorgeous wonder of nature in Portugal
4. Southwest Alentejo and Vicente Coast
The south-western corner of Portugal will surprise you with this beautiful natural park. The endless beaches and stunning cliffs will take our breath away. The beaches here are complemented by soft sand and sunlight glistening in the surrounding waters. This relaxing place is very peaceful and will help you relax after a day full of activities.
Place: Rua Serpa Pinto, 32, 7630-174 Odemira, Portugal
Time: 24*7
entrance fees: free admission
Read suggestions: Lisbon nightlife: 10 best places to make the most of Portugal’s nights
5. Serra da Estrela Natural Park
Serra da Estrela Natural Park has a lot going for it. It contains the largest mountain in Portugal. The park is home to the country’s highest peak, reaching a height of approximately 2000 meters and is surrounded by beautiful valleys and a rich range of flora and fauna. The lakes and forests spread across the mountains and secluded forest trails leading to crystal clear waters make a visit to this place a magical experience.
Place: Serra da Estrela, Portugal
Time: 9 am to 10 pm
entrance fees: 10 euros
Read suggestions: 5 Best Villas in Portugal That Will Add to Your Holiday Experience
6. Montesinho Natural Park
The Montesinho Natural Ark is a biodiversity hot spot. As well as being one of the largest parks in the country, the views make it a must-see. The hills and valleys here first give way to tranquil ponds and gurgling waterfalls and descend to dense forests that are sure to stun you. Weaving paths lead up to the mountain that is the park’s namesake and from the top, you can enjoy stunning views of the surroundings. The abundance of large mammals in Montesinho gives lucky visitors the chance to glimpse the Iberian wolf, lynx or genet. The presence of these animals makes Montesinho very important because they protect the natural habitat.
Place: Bragança Forest Park, 5300-000, Bragança, Portugal
Time: 24*7
entrance fees: free admission
Read suggestions: 11 best places to visit in Portugal, the hidden gem of Europe
7. Ria Formosa Natural Park
Ria Formosa Park is a favorite among beachgoers and birdwatchers as the place offers amazing views and a cozy atmosphere in the sunlight, allowing one to enjoy everything the park has to offer. The park is located in the Faroe Islands in the south of Portugal, where the warm climate attracts tourists to the coasts all year round. Explorers who do not like to relax on the beach for long periods of time can explore the nearby wetlands, lagoons or walk on the endless sands of Ria Formosa. The place is full of magnificent migratory birds and the sky above is also full of them. The sound of birds moving around and around makes it a pleasure to be present at this place.
Place: 8700-225 Olhão, Portugal
Time: 24*7
entrance fees: free admission
8. North Coast National Park
The Littoral Norte National Park or Northern Littoral National Park is a grassy park bordering the Atlantic Ocean. It is located in Esposende Municipality. The place is characterized by sand dunes that have been shaped by strong sea winds. The sight of long grass swaying in the wind is very pleasant. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including sea birds. Littoral Norte National Park was created to preserve the sand dunes and the wildlife, including birds and fish, in their natural environment.
Place: Rua Professor José Pio Rodrigues 29, Fao, Portugal
Time: 24*7
entrance fees: He
9. Alvao Natural Park
Located in the municipalities of Mondim de Basto and Vila Real, the Álvao Natural Park is a protected area that was established in 1983. The park consists of two distinct ecosystems, the upland zone and the basal zone. The upper area is a mountainous area with granite formations and rocky cliffs. The area is popular among hikers and adventure seekers. The division is demarcated by the Fisgal Falls. The Olo River that flows through the park is surrounded by rocky river beds and forest.
Place: Lugar do Barrio, 4880-164, Portugal
Time: He
entrance fees: He
10. Douro International Natural Park
The Douro International Natural Park extends across the municipalities of Miranda do Douro, Mogadora, Freixo de Espada a Cinta and Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo. Interestingly, it is located along the river that marks the border between Portugal and Spain. The river winds its way through the high rocky cliffs creating a picturesque sight. This contrast is also adorned by the green vegetation covering the rocky surfaces of the cliffs on both sides of the river. There are small waterfalls along the course of the river which add visual texture to the flow.
Place: International Douro International Natural Park, Portugal
Time: 10 am – 6 am
entrance fees: He
read ahead: 14 great things to do in Portugal to enjoy the rich Portuguese flavor
So, here we have a list of the 7 most beautiful natural parks in Portugal that have trails, beaches and even hiking is allowed. Although there is only one national park in Portugal, the place is rich with a lot of natural parks. Here are the best natural parks of Portugal. Enjoy the serene beauty of this land and have a safe journey. Plan a trip to Europe and go!
People also read:
National Parks in Belgium National Parks in Italy National Parks in the Netherlands
Are you looking to book an international holiday?
Book memorable holidays on TourTravelHotels with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
