by Gemma Delaney

There’s nothing quite like taking a break from the everyday and indulging in an invigorating hike. Especially when the trail leads through the remarkable Quinta do Pisão nature park, located in the popular seaside resort of Cascais, Portugal. With the sun kissing your skin, the sea’s lullaby in your ears, and breathtaking sights to admire, our journey was nothing short of exhilarating. And the best part? We did it all while contributing to the conservation of the planet.

Joining us on our exploration was an unlikely but adorable companion – a Miranda donkey, a species native to Portugal that finds sanctuary in the park. These charming creatures play a valuable part in maintaining the park’s vast landscapes, and for travelers like us, they turned out to be excellent company on the trail.

The All-New West Route: A Hiker’s Paradise

Treading along the newly introduced three-day West Route, we embarked on a journey from the wild Atlantic coast, through the heart of Quinta do Pisão, and onward to the mystical Sintra mountains. This idyllic trek perfectly blends the raw, unspoiled beauty of Portugal and conservational efforts that have turned once barren lands into thriving ecosystems.

A trove of activities awaits at the park – from engaging with local biologists to monitor wildlife, stepping into the shoes of park rangers to care for the animals, and even trying your hand at beekeeping. If you prefer an adrenaline rush, the park offers exhilarating horse-riding experiences and canopy trails. Rest assured, there is never a dull moment here.

At the end of each day’s hike, we were greeted by the sight of meticulously set up eco-friendly glamping spots, where we were served local cuisine and treated to undeniably stunning 360-degree panoramas. And believe me when I say that a Portuguese picnic of cheese, veg pastries, olive and tuna buns, zesty meringue, and fresh fruit, tastes even better when complemented by such views.

Cascais: A Perfect Rendezvous of Culture and Adventure

Cascais, a stylish seaside resort, also known as the ‘Charm of the Atlantic coast’, was our base for the weekend. This former fishing village is a potpourri of culture and history, with grand villas, sandy beaches rich with outdoor sports, fabulous seafood, and modern luxuries.

Known for its year-round sunshine and fresh winds, we enjoyed everything Cascais had to offer – from scaling the historic Farol de Santa Marta lighthouse to soaking in the vibrant life on its sandy shores and dining at beachside eateries. A boat ride along the impressive coastline was a fitting end to our exploration here.

Experiencing Royal Luxury at the Grande Real Villa Italia Hotel and Spa

After an adventurous day hiking, we found blissful retreat at the Grande Real Villa Italia Hotel and Spa. With its heated, seawater pool, decadent breakfasts, and luxurious spa, it served as our sanctuary. A much-recommended treatment was the spa’s signature massage with heated Portuguese cabacas (giant gourds), known to have excellent benefits for lymphatic drainage.

The Fairy-Tale Town of Sintra

Our Portuguese journey would have been incomplete without a visit to the magical town of Sintra. We found ourselves enchanted by its historic charm, quaint bakeries, and fairy-tale-like palaces.

On our way back, a scenic coastal route offered the sight of staggering cliffs at Cabo da Roca, Europe’s most westerly point, overlooking the sea which glittered enticingly as waves crashed below.

We came back rejuvenated by the adventure, the wide-open skies, and the glittering sea, promising ourselves to return and further delve into the beauty that Portugal has to offer. Maybe next time I’ll add surfing to the mix!

Portugal hiking, eco-trekking trail, Quinta do Pisão nature park, Cascais Portugal, Miranda donkeys, West Route trekking tour, Sintra mountains, eco-friendly glamping, Grande Real Villa Italia Hotel and Spa, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, outdoor activities, sustainable tourism