12 Hidden Gems in Portugal That Will Make You Rethink Your Travel Plans

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Portugal is a loved place, and it is easy to see why everyone wants a slice of this European country. With its great weather, historic cities, charming beach towns, affordability, and fairytale villages, it is inevitable that some of Portugal’s destinations will become popular and even very touristy.

For any traveler who likes to find value for their money, you know that you have to go beyond the popular destinations. Simply put, adding hidden gems to your travel itinerary often means enjoying unspoiled beauty without the inauthenticity of tourist traps.

Are you looking to see the side of Portugal that many foreign tourists overlook? Read on as we look at hidden gems in Portugal.

Monsaraz

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Monsaraz is a medieval village perched high on a hilltop. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding Alentejo countryside and the vast Alqueva Lake. Its well-preserved historic charm, cobbled streets, and whitewashed houses make it a picturesque destination that feels like stepping back in time.

Luckily, Monsaraz remains relatively off the beaten path compared to more popular Portuguese destinations, especially in Alentejo. Its remote location and small size contribute to its tranquility, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

During your visit, you can explore 13th-century Monsaraz Castle, which offers stunning views of the Alentejo plains and the Alqueva Dam; stroll along its medieval streets, visit the 16th-century Our Lady of the Lake church, or get active with watersports in Alqueva Lake.

Sortelha

If you are into stunning villages, do not skip Sortelha during your visit to Portugal. It is one of Portugal’s oldest and best-preserved villages, offering a glimpse into the medieval past. The village is characterized by its ancient stone houses, narrow cobbled streets, and an impressive medieval castle, all set atop a hill.

While there is a lot to like about Sortelha, you will undoubtedly fall in love with it. It is untouched by mass tourism. To get the best of its authentic medieval charm and tranquility, explore the medieval castle of Sortelha, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside; wander through its ancient streets, walk along the defensive walls that encircle the village, or browse through shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.

Azenhas do Mar

Azenhas do Mar is a picturesque coastal village situated on the cliffs of the Sintra region. Known for its stunning whitewashed houses cascading down the cliffs towards the Atlantic Ocean, the town offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Despite being in the famous Sintra region, Azenhas do Mar retains its authentic Portuguese coastal charm that offers a great escape from other popular cities.

There is so much to do in this village. You can wander through its narrow streets and enjoy panoramic cliffs and ocean views, relax on beaches like Praia das Azenhas do Mar as you take in the stunning coastal scenery, or explore the village’s beautiful architecture as you sample seafood restaurants.

Caldas de Monchique

There is no doubt that the Algarve is one of the most beautiful regions in Europe. However, many Algarve towns are overrun with tourism and visiting them can, unfortunately, end up being overwhelming. For a quick escape from the popular Algarve towns, head out to Caldas de Monchique, a small spa town with healing thermal waters, lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere.

Tucked in the Monchique Mountains, Caldas de Monchique has been a beloved wellness destination since Roman times.

While there, you can take advantage of thermal baths and experience their therapeutic properties, including healing effects on the skin and respiratory conditions. You cannot miss Fonte Santa, an ancient spring known for its mineral-rich waters and tranquil surroundings. Caldas de Monchique Spa is another unmissable depot known for a wide range of wellness treatments and thermal baths.

Beyond therapeutic treatments, you can hit the Monchique Mountains hiking trail, which offers lush forests, stunning views, and fresh mountain air. You can also hike up to Foia, the highest point in the Algarve, which provides panoramic views of the region.

Arouca Geopark

Arouca Geopark is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It is designated a UNESCO Global Geopark and is recognized for its exceptional geological heritage, diverse landscapes, and rich biodiversity. There are so many outstanding features of this park, but the world-famous Paiva Walkways (Passadiços do Paiva) is one you should spare enough time for. This spectacular wooden walkway stretches for 5 miles (8 kilometers) along the Paiva River, offering stunning views of the river, waterfalls, and surrounding nature.

Another unmissable highlight of this park is the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world. It is a great place to enjoy stunning views of the Paiva Gorge.

You will also love spending some outdoor moments by Frecha da Mizarela Waterfall and the other diverse landscapes within the park. It is an opportunity to get the best of nature without battling crowds.

Foz d’Égua

Hidden Gems in Portugal Foz d’Égua — © Ricardo Miguel / Shutterstock

If you want a Portuguese destination with authentic village charm, beautiful nature, and a serene environment, consider heading to Foz d’Égua. It is a hidden gem nestled in the Serra do Açor mountains. This picturesque village is known for its traditional stone houses, stunning river pools, and charming footbridges.

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On your visit, you can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear natural pools formed by the confluence of the Piódão and Chãs d’Égua rivers. You can also stroll around soaking in the beauty of the serene landscapes or explore quaint footbridges that add a charming ambiance to the village. This is an excellent destination if you want an authentic experience of rural Portugal while enjoying nature’s beautiful scenery.

Almeida

Near the Portugal-Spain border lies the beautiful and historic village of Almeida, which offers an enriching and immersive experience outside Portugal’s famous destinations. It is known for its star-shaped fortress, one of Europe’s best-preserved military architecture sites.

For an immersive experience in this hidden gem, explore the moats, bastions, and tunnels of the star-shaped fortifications; discover the remains of the Almeida’s castle, learn about the village’s rich military history at the Military Museum, or enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from various points along the fortress walls.

Piódão

Hidden Gems in Portugal Piódão — © yorgen67 / Adobe Stock

Tucked in the Serra do Açor mountains in central Portugal, Piódão is a charming village known for its timeless beauty and utmost serenity. With narrow and winding streets, traditional stone houses with slate roofs, and unparalleled mountain views, visiting Piódão feels like stepping back into the past.

There is so much to see in this charming village. Still, the most noteworthy highlights include the distinctive schist houses, the Church of Our Lady of the Conception serving as the town’s centerpiece, and the history museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to the village’s past.

You can also walk along the rivers, swim, or hike in the surrounding villages. Make sure you experience the magic of Piódão at night when the town is illuminated, creating a fairytale ambiance.

Peneda-Gerês National Park

Hidden Gems in Portugal Peneda-Gerês National Park — © JoaoCachapa / Shutterstock

If you are looking for a perfect escape into nature, what better way than to choose Portugal’s only designated national park, Peneda-Geres National Park? Despite being the country’s only national park, Peneda-Geres National Park is less frequented than many Portuguese destinations. Covering an area of about 270 square miles (700 square kilometers), the park has mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and traditional villages, offering a diverse range of experiences for nature lovers and adventurers.

Whether you are into hiking, wildlife watching, or historical excursions, you will find something that will spark your interest in this national park.

If you would like to visit the most picturesque spots in the park, go with Vilarinho das Furnas, the submerged ruins of an ancient village that appear when water levels drop; Lindoso Castle, which offers panoramic views of the countryside; and Arado Waterfall, a stunning waterfall accessible via a scenic hike, perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Peneda-Gerês National Park is truly a gem you cannot afford to miss. Its combination of natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage is a golden opportunity to experience one of Portugal’s most pristine landscapes.

Ria Formosa Natural Park

With abundant wildlife, stunning beaches, and excellent bird-watching opportunities, Ria Formosa Natural Park truly deserves more recognition from outdoor enthusiasts. The park is known for its diverse ecosystems, featuring a series of barrier islands, salt marshes, dunes, and tidal flats, making it a haven for nature lovers.

It is another excellent spot for tourists looking to take a break from the bustling beach resorts of the Algarve region. During your trip to Ria Formosa Natural Park, you can go birdwatching with chances of spotting flamingos, herons, and the rare purple gallinule; take boat tours through the park’s waterways, relax on its pristine beaches such as Praia de Faro, Ilha Deserta, and Ilha da Culatra; or explore life in traditional fishing villages like Olhão and Santa Luzia.

Berlengas Archipelago

When in Peniche, take advantage of the opportunity to explore the Berlengas Archipelago, which is connected to the mainland via a causeway. The Berlengas Archipelago is a group of small islands located a short drive off the coast of Peniche, making it a perfect spot to explore its natural beauty, marine life, and historic sites.

The archipelago is a protected area and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve best for exploring stunning natural beauty, clear turquoise waters, and diverse marine life.

There are so many things to explore on this archipelago, from rugged cliffs, caves, secluded beaches, and caverns, making it a great spot for adventurous people. While there is so much to see, do not miss the opportunity to explore Fort of São João Baptista, Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro beach, known for its crystal-clear waters, and Lighthouse of Berlenga which provides panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding islands.

With so much to indulge in, make sure you just sit back and relax in the archipelago’s beauty and serenity. Its limited accessibility and protected status help preserve its pristine environment, offering a tranquil and unspoiled retreat for those who choose to explore it.

Monsanto

Monsanto is often described as “the most Portuguese village in Portugal.” If this is not a good enough reason to get you to explore Monsanto, then you will certainly love its rich history and unique charm. Known for its distinctive architecture, where houses are built around and sometimes into massive boulders, Monsanto offers a unique and picturesque setting that feels like stepping into a whole new universe.

If you choose to explore this hidden gem, your subjects of focus should include the ruins of the Castle of Monsant, the houses built into boulders, and the chapel of São Miguel, a stunning Romanesque chapel that is one of the oldest structures in the village. If you truly want to experience the essence of Portugal, Monsanto is a destination you should add to your travel list.