Serra do Risco

Shorter or longer hikes through the agricultural land of the Dukes of Palmela. Also possible by bike or horseback.

There are various tour options, and we like the Píncaro, which boasts the highest mainland cliff in Europe, or the Marmitas de Gigante and a few other highlights. You’ll find plenty of variants and alternatives on All Trails or Komoot.

A good starting point is the Casa de Calhariz, where Portugal’s current president once annoyed Queen Elizabeth as a child — and reminded her of it decades later. On the dirt road south of the estate, there is a small parking bay; the gate to the right marks the access to various hiking trails. It’s not ideal for high summer or for those with a poor sense of direction — it’s a major dead zone for cell reception.

Why should you still give it a try? Firstly, because of the magnificent herd of cattle and the horses that will make teenagers’ hearts weep with joy. Along the way, there’s plenty of wild nature, and on the cliffs, you get a bit of a ”king of the world” feeling.