Think Portugal and what comes to mind? Of course the vibrant capital of Lisbon, swaths of sandy beaches, rich port wines, fortified hilltop towns, and ruins from Roman and megalithic periods. What about hiking? Probably not. But your next trip to Portugal should include hiking, thanks to a brand new trail, the longest in Portugal. Whether for a day or a week, you'll find that this trail, the Rota Vicentina, is all about authenticity in that the people who
created it teamed up with rural accommodations that are
locally owned to highlight a part of the country that sees little
outside travelers. (And they did it without building a waterfront resort
or yet another golf course.)
I recently wrote about my hike along the Rota Vicentina for National Geographic Traveler - Intelligent Travel.
15 comments:
The scenery here looks gorgeous. It's definitely an area I'd like to visit.
Looks so untarnished by tourists---lovely!
Great timing for this because I'm planning a visit in the fall. Thanks for the info.
I always enjoy hearing about places to hike -- and just finished up an essay myself about the many different ways to walk the Camino de Santiago, with mention of the the Camino Portugues. I wonder if you've walked any of those routes?
thanks for your informed perspective on this trail, Jeanine.
Hi Brette, I can't wait to return and do another portion of the trail. Or maybe revisit these portions.
Hi Irene, It's always great to find a seafront without condos.
Hi Alisa, Let me know if you need any travel advice for your journey.
Hi Kerry, Yes, I walked a portion of the Camino de Santiago through Asturias, Spain. I have a blog post on the article I wrote about this journey.
This looks lovely. I never really thought of Portugal as a place to visit, but your photos make me want to put it on my list.
I've always wanted to visit Portugal. AND I love to hike. You've convinced me this is a must!
Hi Living Large, There are lots of people who also don't have Portugal on their list. But those who visit, return again and again.
Hi Sheryl, Hope you make it on the trail. It's a dream.
Oh my goodness, how beautiful.
Hi Jane, Thanks for commenting. I love how hiking bring you so up close with the land and the people.
Hello i'm portuguese and recently found your blog. The region that you describe it's very beautiful e deserve to be discovered. But if you love hiking I strongly recomend that you to go a place in the north of Portugal called Gerês. It's a natural reserve with 70 290 acres of breathtaking landscapes. It's a region with an incredible variety of animals and plants who are unique in all of europe. It's a place where you can find inner peace just by hiking in the middle of the woods and breathe the pureness of the air.
If you someday return to Portugal, come visit Gerês. You won't regret it.
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