If you are looking for a bit of adventure on your holidays then Portugal has plenty to offer.

Parque Nacional da Peneda-Geres

In the north there is the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Geres, offering mountain biking and hiking through the granite massifs where you will pass ancient villages that seem to have stood still in time. Red kites, eagles and goshawks will soar above you until you are ready for a bit of relaxation at one of the many river pools or an invigorating  dip at the Arado or Homem waterfalls.

In the middle of Portugal you will find the Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela which is dominated by alpine-like mountains, icy lakes and rough meadows. This area is ideal for the more experienced hiker and even for a spot of

Linhares da Beira

skiing. Linhares da  Beira, a serra village complete with a medieval castle and ancient buildings, offers mountain paragliding and the Caramulo mountains offer mountain biking, rock climbing, canoeing and horse riding.

The Levada trails on the island of Madeira take you through the ancient rainforests in the north of the island, where you can explore wonderful waterfalls and secluded valleys hidden in the mountainous landscape.

From the Azores you can take part in whale-watching, either from the land or from boat. Sperm whales and pilot whales are common here, with dolphins often coming close enough for you to touch.

Top 10 Adventures

Rafting in the Paiva or Tamega rivers in Porto e Norte.

Para-gliding in Linhares da Beira.

Climbing the mountains of the Serra da Estrela.

Climb the Pico volcano on Pico Island in the Azores.

Faial Island

Whale and dolphin watch in the Atlantic near Faial Island in the Azores.

Diving off the Azores and discover blue marlin and tuna.

Scuba diving in Berlengas or Sesimbra.

Mountain biking in the Serra da Arrabida.

Trekking the Levada trail on Madeira.

Hiking in Pico do Areeiro on Madeira.