Portugal still holds many secrets for those who enjoy exploring beyond the most popular destinations. Between almost deserted beaches, centuries-old fortresses, historic villages and scenic roads, there are perfect routes for a summer road trip.
For travellers looking for authentic places away from the crowds, here are five routes that combine heritage, nature and some of the most beautiful landscapes in mainland Portugal.
1. Between cliffs and fortresses in the southwest Alentejo
Suggested route: Porto Covo > Vila Nova de Milfontes > Almograve > Zambujeira do Mar
The Alentejo Coast remains one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets. Between Porto Covo and Zambujeira do Mar, secondary roads reveal hidden beaches, impressive viewpoints and small fishing villages.
Along the way, it is worth visiting the Pessegueiro Island Fort, built in the 17th century to protect the coast from pirate attacks. In Vila Nova de Milfontes, the São Clemente Fort offers one of the best views over the mouth of the Mira River.
Tip: Take a detour to Aivados Beach or Malhão Beach to find quieter areas, even during peak season.
2. Discovering the Historic Villages of Beira Interior
Suggested route: Castelo Novo > Belmonte > Sortelha > Almeida
Few regions combine history and landscape as naturally as Beira Interior.
Castelo Novo impresses with its stone streets and manor houses. Belmonte takes visitors back to the medieval period and the history of the Discoveries. Sortelha seems frozen in time, preserving its walls and buildings almost intact.
The journey ends in Almeida, whose star-shaped fortress is considered one of the largest military structures in the Iberian Peninsula.
Tip: Explore the river beaches in the region during the hottest hours of the day.
3. From Arrábida to Cabo Espichel along scenic roads
Suggested route: Setúbal > Serra da Arrábida > Sesimbra > Cabo Espichel
Just a few kilometres from Lisbon, you will find one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the country.
Serra da Arrábida offers privileged views over the Atlantic and access to some of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, such as Galapinhos and Galápos.
Further south, Sesimbra combines fishing tradition with historic heritage. Sesimbra Castle and Santiago Fort are essential stops before continuing to the impressive Cabo Espichel.
Tip: Visit the cape in the late afternoon to watch the sunset over the Atlantic.
4. Among castles, wines and Alto Alentejo landscapes
Suggested route: Marvão > Castelo de Vide > Crato > Alter do Chão
This is one of the least explored routes of the Portuguese summer.
Marvão stands out for its unique location at the top of the mountain, offering views that stretch all the way to Spain. Castelo de Vide preserves one of the most important Jewish quarters in the country.
Further south, Crato and Alter do Chão reveal convents, palaces and traditions linked to the breeding of the Lusitano horse.
Tip: Take time to taste the regional wines and gastronomy along the route.
5. From the deep Minho to the Peneda-Gerês National Park
Suggested route: Ponte da Barca > Lindoso > Soajo > Castro Laboreiro
Northern Portugal hides some of the most impressive landscapes in the Iberian Peninsula.
This route crosses part of the Peneda-Gerês National Park and leads travellers through mountain villages, centuries-old granaries and waterfalls with crystal-clear waters.
Lindoso and Soajo are two of the most iconic places in the region, while Castro Laboreiro surprises visitors with its medieval castle and the beauty of the surrounding valleys.
Tip: Bring swimwear. The natural lagoons and waterfalls are an excellent alternative to traditional beaches.
Travelling without a fixed schedule is the best way to discover Portugal
The best trips rarely happen on the most obvious routes. They often begin on a secondary road, at a hidden beach or in a village where the pace is still set by nature.
This summer, enjoy the freedom to explore Portugal at your own pace and discover places that remain outside the main tourist circuits.