Unveiling Portugal: 10 Secret Locations You Didn’t Know Existed

Portugal is a land of a fantastic landscape, historic cities, and vibrant culture beyond the familiar great sightseeing spots. Portugal has a lot of secret locations that are not beaten path and show its diversity. There’s so much to do from mystical forests to medieval villages, from untouched islands to stunning waterfalls.

Before journeying, please be fully documented for travel. The first step in discovering these incredible places is to apply for a Portugal Visa from Dubai or a Portugal Visa from UAE. If your visa situation is settled, you are now ready to discover Portugal’s best hidden gems and experience the side of this country that most travelers never get to see.

Here are 10 Hidden Gems in Portugal You Probably Didn’t Know Existed.

1. Piodao

Piodao is a picture perfect village nestled in the Serra do Acor Mountains and is famous for its schist stone houses, narrow alleyways and peaceful ambiance. At night, the village is illuminated, and it is often referred to as 'Portugal’s Nativity Scene'. It’s situated in the middle of the green hills with the ancient trails as a backdrop, thus providing a tranquil serenity away from the hustle and bustle of cities. Piodao is a hidden treasure which, whether walking forwards or observing in all its splendor, it feels like stepping into a storybook.

2. Berlengas Islands

They consist of crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs and also a healthy marine ecosystem, and they are protected as a nature reserve off the coast of Peniche. Located only by boat and perfect for snorkeling, diving and birdwatching, this secluded archipelago is only accessible by boat. The islands are graced with the historic Fort of Sao Joao Baptista on a rocky islet. Berlengas is an escape from the mainland, whether you want adventure or relaxation.

3. Foz d’Egua

Foz d’Egua is a beautiful valley tucked away near Piodao where two rivers meet to form natural swimming pools surrounded by lush greenery. The landscape is small stone bridges and wooden walkways alike that have a fairytale like charm. At summer, it’s just a wonderful pick out in the heat and in autumn the leaves add to its beauty. Foz d’Egua is a place if you want a serene exit with mesmerizing views.

4. Mata da Albergaria

Mata da Albergaria is a mystical forest, part of the Peneda-Geres National Park, and is full of ancient oak trees, moss covered paths and cascading waterfalls. It is a rich biodiversity area with rare flora and fauna. Walking through the forest is like entering another world, Roman roads and old stone bridges speaking of past. Hikers and nature lovers looking for tranquility will love it as an ideal destination.

5. Monsaraz

Monsaraz is a charming medieval village that has been frozen in time. Its narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses in narrow streets take the visitors back to Portugal’s past, on a hill overlooking the Alqueva Lake. The well preserved castle of the village is known for its breathtaking panoramic views. Monsaraz is a visit to history, where you can visit ancient architecture, have traditional cuisine, and see one of the most beautiful sunsets in Portugal.

6. Covao dos Conchos

Covao dos Conchos is an artificial spillway in the middle of a lake, hidden in the Serra da Estrela Mountains, and it looks like a giant whirlpool. The sight is bizarre looking like a portal to another dimension. It is a manmade attraction but blends well in the natural surroundings, making it a great attraction for hikers and photographers. The trail to Covao dos Conchos is scenic and has lovely views over Portugal’s highest peaks.

7. Sortelha

If you are looking for a place where time seems to stand still, then Sortelha is one of Portugal’s oldest and most well preserved villages. It is surrounded by granite boulders and ancient stone walls and has medieval architecture that has not been touched by modern developments. Its streets are filled with historic homes, a castle with panoramic views and charming squares with history. For those who wish to delve into Portugal’s medieval heritage, Sortelha is a perfect destination.

8. Ilha do Farol

Ilha do Farol is a peaceful retreat away from the Algarve’s famous tourist packed beaches. Golden sands, a picturesque lighthouse and a laid back atmosphere are what this small island, which can be reached by ferry from Olhao, has to offer. Key West is an ideal sunbathing, swimming, and fresh seafood eating place, with just a few cozy restaurants to enjoy. Ilha do Farol is a hidden paradise for those who want a quiet escape from the crowds.

9. Fraga da Pena

Fraga da Pena is a stunning waterfall deep within the Serra do Acor and surrounded by dense vegetation. It may be a peaceful and tranquil hike spot but a cool dip in the summer. Its pristine beauty is protected by the area being part of a protected nature reserve. Blessed are those who can escape from World’s physical realm and go into their own imaginary reality, especially when that reality is rooted in magic and inspiration.

10. Marvao

Marvao, perched high in the mountains near the Spanish border, is a medieval town, with its castle beamed high above, one of the best preserved medieval towns in Portugal, and amongst the best in the country. It often described as the ‘eagle’s nest’ with wonderful panoramic sights of rolling hills and picturesque villages below. ‘Winding streets, ancient walls and the historical charm of the place make it a place to explore. Marvao is a real hidden gem, whether you go there for its history, scenery or peaceful atmosphere.

Conclusion

Portugal’s lesser known destinations, if you will, offers a historic, a natural and an adventurous mix of outings that someone could have off away (pun intended) from the standard tourist hotspots. You can read more and are sure to spend hours glued to your device if you’re spending time wandering around mystical forests, ancient villages and secluded islands that you’d never guess existed.

If you want your trip to become a reality, then make sure you apply for your Portugal Visa from Dubai or Portugal Visa from UAE well beforehand. When your visa is ready, you are set to explore some of Portugal’s best kept secrets.