Douro Natural Park Hiking Tour

Douro Natural Park Hiking Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Miranda do Douro

Arrive in Miranda do Douro, the official starting point of your tour. Please inquire about scheduled shared transfers or private transfers from the Porto Airport.

This welcoming town is protected from the outside world by the soaring cliffs that surround it. The locals here have a colourful traditional dance and even their own regional language!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Miranda do Douro
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 Explore the cliffs and birdwatch in Miranda do Douro

Your morning adventure will begin in town so that you can discover the majestic cathedral, ancient city walls, and amazing views of the craggy backdrop.

Your hike will begin to follow a trail into the Natural Park where you’ll find fruit orchards and towering cliffs. From the So Joo Arribas viewpoint, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the Douro River. This is a great place to birdwatch- try and spot golden eagles, griffon, and Egyptian vultures.

From July to October, you can also book an optional canoe ride along the base of the magnificent cliffs.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Miranda do Douro
Distance: Short route: 3 hours, 11.8 km, 268m of ascent and 115m of descent
Long route: 4 to 5 hours, 18.3 km, 320m of ascent and 237m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Hike in the Natural Park

Today you’ll continue hiking through the Natural Park southwards to the picturesque village of Picote.

From this charming town, you’ll hike through the natural forests of cedars, oak, and cork and into the rolling pastures of Mirandesa cattle. You’ll arrive in the farming village of Sendim in time to explore the churches and local craft shops.

The shorter route includes your transfer to Sendim, where you’ll spend the night.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Sendim
Distance: Short route: 3 hours, 10.8 km, 181m of ascent and 140m of descent
Long route: 5 hours, 21.6 km, 365m of ascent and 305m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Vineyards and Orchards near Sendim

Today begins with a circuit around Sendim, crossing through splendid vineyards, olive groves, and almond groves. Along the trail, you’ll come across an enormous juniper plantation where they harvest the berries for making seasonings and gin.

When you arrive back in Sendim, be sure to visit the local winery for a tasting or to try some local produce at dinnertime.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Sendim
Distance: 3 hours, 11.5 km, 359m of ascent and 352m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Discover Felgar and the Sabor River Valley

This morning, you will be transported to Felgar after breakfast. You’ll begin your hike by passing through this lovely town spread across the hillside of Roboredo Mountain. As you explore the fields and olive groves nearby, you’ll be enjoying the amazing views across the valleys and surrounding mountains.

Today there is an optional 4x4 excursion that includes bird watching and a hike on the Apajares Way with a professional guide. Take advantage of the pool at the hotel today by finishing your day with a relaxing swim.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Felgar
Distance: Short route: 2 hours, 9.1 km, 485m of ascent and 482m of descent
Long route: 3 hours, 13.1km, 729m of ascent and 712m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Hike to Torre de Moncorvo

Follow the scenic trail along old railway tracks towards the town of Torre de Moncorvo. You’ll be hiking in the area known as the gateway to the famous Douro Wine Region. As the name suggests, this is where port and Douro wines are produced.

You’re free to explore the town in the afternoon. There are lots of shops to discover with local delicacies like olive oil, almonds, cheese, jams, and wines. You can also see how the Portuguese sugar-covered almonds are made (and taste, of course).
Overnight Location: Hotel in Torre de Moncorvo
Distance: Short route: 3 hours, 11.6 km, 77m of ascent and 289m of descent
Long route: 4 to 5 hours, 14.41km, 107m of ascent and 292m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 Scenic Hike and Train to Porto

Today you will be hiking towards Pocinho. The trail has incredible views of sweeping vineyards and the sparkling Douro and Sabor Rivers.

You’ll be nearing the end of the trail when the striking railway bridge and Pocinho Dam comes into view. From here, you’ll purchase your ticket for the train and take in the scenery to Porto as you ride towards the city.

From São Bento station, considered to be in the top five most beautiful stations in the world, you can walk or take a taxi to your hotel. Spend the afternoon taking in the sights and sounds of Porto and then pick one of the many great restaurants for dinner.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Porto
Distance: 3 to 4 hours, 13.7 km, 42m of ascent and 332m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Return Home

Your tour concludes after the breakfast. Safe travels!
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast