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Natural Parks

Natural parks of Portugal

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Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte

Perched high above Braga, in the parish of Tenões, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is a place where devotion, spectacular architecture, and breathtaking views come together! This iconic site of northern Portugal has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2019. We’ll guide you through all the practical details, local anecdotes, and insider tips to make the most of your visit.

Natural Park of Serras de Aire and Candeeiros, between caves and dinosaurs

Imagine yourself walking along winding trails, surrounded by towering limestone formations, listening to the birds singing and the murmuring of streams… pleasant, isn’t it ?

Montesinho Natural Park, rural and authentic Portugal

Portugal is often associated with its sun-drenched beaches, lively cities like Lisbon or Porto, or the gentle charm of the Algarve. And yet, in the northeast of the country, lies a region still little-known to most travellers: Trás-os-Montes. It’s here that you’ll find the Montesinho Natural Park, a vast protected area of over 75,000 hectares, created in 1979, and one of the largest in Portugal. Here, nature reigns supreme… yet coexists peacefully with traditional villages and locals who preserve an authentic rural way of life. It’s a unique destination for anyone wishing to discover a wilder, more genuine Portugal, and one that feels a little outside of time… in short, a breath of fresh air far from the crowds, just what we all need !

Arrábida Natural Park, between sea and mountain

This magnificent natural park, located on the southern coast of Lisbon, is a true gem of Portugal. Stretching over nearly 10,000 hectares, it combines lush green mountains and crystal-clear beaches, offering a unique panorama where the sea quite literally embraces the hills. Whether you’re a nature lover, a hiking enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful (and inspiring) place to escape, Arrábida is THE must-see destination. Composed of spectacular landscapes and history, this natural park is a true concentration of biodiversity that attracts visitors from Portugal and beyond every year !

Ria Formosa Natural Park, the paradise of migratory birds

Ria Formosa Natural Park, located in the south of Portugal (in the Algarve region), is an exceptional sanctuary for migratory birds. Covering around 18,400 hectares of lagoons, salt marshes, barrier islands and coastal dunes, it’s a true natural patchwork where land and sea intertwine as far as the eye can see. This park offers an ideal habitat for hundreds of species.

Douro International Natural Park, the Wild Frontier

In the northeast of Portugal, where the River Douro draws a natural border with Spain, lies one of the country’s most breathtaking natural parks : the Douro International Natural Park. Created in 1998, this protected area covers nearly 85,000 hectares and follows the course of the Douro for over a hundred kilometres. Still little-known among travellers, it remains an authentic destination where wild nature blends seamlessly with the age-old traditions of the border villages, a place so peaceful you’ll feel time itself has slowed down.

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, between magical forest and cliffs

Located about 30 km from Lisbon, the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is a true invitation to escape. Classified as a natural park since 1994, it stretches over around 14,500 hectares and offers a great variety of landscapes: mountains, lush forests, wild beaches and dizzying cliffs. It’s a place where nature and history seem to have made a pact… between fairytale palaces and the salty breath of the Atlantic.

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