Plans are underway to create the world’s longest circular hiking route in Portugal, called Palmilhar Portugal (Walking Portugal). The route aims to divert tourists away from popular destinations like Lisbon and the Algarve and towards lesser-known beauty spots throughout the country. The trail will be 3,000 km long and will ultimately include 100 different locations, providing a unique and off-the-beaten-track experience for visitors. The project is still in progress, with the first section set to open in Alenquer in July, followed by sections in Alentejo and Trás-os-Montes in the south and north of Portugal, respectively.
The circular route was conceived by walking enthusiast and communication design consultant Ricardo Bernardes, who hopes to redistribute tourism to parts of Portugal that are currently undiscovered. While Palmilhar Portugal may not be the world’s longest trail, it will be the world’s longest circular walk, roughly the length of Europe’s Via Francigena. The trail, which will primarily be on public land and pedestrianized, will also be open to cyclists in some areas and aim to include trails accessible to people with reduced mobility. An accompanying app will provide information about the route, as well as opportunities to book accommodation, meals, and tickets to events along the way.
The first section of the Walking Portugal route will open in Alenquer, a town known for its archaeology, palaeontology, and history, as well as wine tastings from local vineyards. The town hosts the Fair of the Ascension each year, offering a unique tourist event. Later sections of the trail will extend to southern Alentejo, which boasts national parks, unspoiled coastline, dolphin watching, wild horses, and cork oak tree forests. The route will also include the remote Trás-os-Montes region in the northeast, known for olive groves, orchards, vineyards, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and biosphere reserves, offering a pastoral welcome for walkers with unique features like carved granite pigs, ancient almond trees, and hidden gorges.
The project is expected to cost €3.5 million and will require participation and investment from local councils and businesses to ensure its success. While the trail will not have guarantees, a digital and physical passport system is in development for visitors to stamp along the route. The goal is to offer a full-service experience for hikers and cyclists, providing information and amenities along the way. With 15 routes expected to be open by the end of the year and the trail completed within three years, Walking Portugal aims to offer a unique and sustainable tourism experience in Portugal while alleviating overcrowding in popular tourist destinations. By promoting less-visited areas and providing a comprehensive trail experience, the project hopes to offer something for everyone along the extensive route.
